Posts in Skills
Decoding: "Reach Out Again in About 6 Months."

Navigating the nuances of communication can sometimes resemble a puzzle, especially when prospects offer the ambiguous directive: "Reach out again in about 6 months." It's a phrase that's both promising and enigmatic, often leaving individuals pondering its true significance in the context of professional relationships and opportunities. 

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Sales Is Easier Said Than Done

The phrase "easier said than done" is a timeless adage that resonates deeply across various aspects of life. From fitness resolutions to learning a new language, the gap between our aspirations and reality is often wide and, at times, insurmountable.

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The Art of "Mind Reading" in the World of Complex B2B Sales

It's more common than not that clients don't always know what they want or need, or cannot clearly articulate those needs. This reality means there are unique dynamics in "mind reading" or reading the "tea leaves" with B2B clients in these situations. 

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Build Partner/Channel Programs that Work – The First Time!

Partner/Channel programs fail for a variety of reasons, and the specific causes of failure can vary depending on the strategy or lack thereof. Based on my 30 years of partner/channel program strategy development and execution, here are the top five reasons why partner/channel programs fail:

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"I'm Looking for a Sales Leader with a Rolodex Who Can Hit the Ground Running"

I have conversations on a regular basis with business owners and founders who expect much more magic on the sales side of their businesses than they would otherwise with other functional areas like HR, Finance, or Engineering.

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Overcoming Client Objections: Breaking Through the 'No Budget' Argument

The 'No Budget' objection is a common hurdle in sales, but it's not insurmountable. By understanding the client's perspective, highlighting value, and offering flexible solutions, you can break through this obstacle and ultimately secure the sale.

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The Power of Empathy, Humor, and Listening

How many client or vendor relationships have you turned into long-lasting personal friendships? In the world of sales, building strong connections with clients is not just a mere strategy; it's the cornerstone of success.

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The Sales Game Plan: Prioritization for Maximum Productivity

When the words "Prioritize" and "Sales" come together, what comes to mind? Is it the art of opportunity selection? The judicious management of time? The meticulous sequence of tactics? The strategic choice of metrics? Or perhaps, the fine art of customer prioritization?

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The Numbers Game in Sales: Facts, Not Fiction

Sales professionals often refer to their line of work as a "numbers game." At first glance, this phrase might sound like an excuse for failures or, even more so, a justification for relentless pursuit.

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Sales, SkillsHenning Schwinum
The Perfect Apology: Handling Mistakes with Grace

Effectively apologizing to a disheartened customer transcends its basic function—it becomes the linchpin that reduces product returns, amplifies brand reputation, secures the allegiance of steadfast patrons, augments recurring revenue streams, and, in certain instances, even circumvents potential legal entanglements.

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