Q. I work for a bank and now I'm being forced to sell loans. I've always hated sales and dealing with salespeople. Any thoughts?A. Wow, should we take that personally? :)
First off, the reason most people don't like the idea of selling is because they feel like they are bothering people with something they don't need. The negative view of salespeople usually comes the thought that most salespeople are just out to separate people from their money while giving them nothing of value in return. In other words, they take advantage of people.
You need to ask yourself a few questions. First, how did you get your job at the bank?
You may have heard this before but, here it is again, we are all in sales. You sold someone on YOU to get your job at the bank. The product was YOU, a product you believe in, and you sold it. You believe the bank is better off with the product you have to offer - YOU. Do you have a significant other? Have you ever? If so, once again, you sold someone a product named YOU.
Next what do you believe about your bank and it's products? Do you believe that the bank you work for is a good bank? Do you believe that your bank offers quality products that help people? If so, then by getting people involved with your bank and it's products (selling), you are helping people. If you believe your bank and it's products are the best, then not only should you ask all the people you can to do business with you and your bank, you have an obligation to. Why? Because they will be better off with your product and worse off with someone else's.
Also, all the people you are calling on are banking with someone, why not you?
You are talking to big boys and girls, they can sell "no" if they're not interested. And by the way, if they do say no, it's not personal. You have no idea what is going on over on the other end of the phone. Someone may have just lost their best customer, or their dog may have died. Whoever called with your offer at the same time you did, would have received the same response. Don't take it personally.
Finally, learning to sell your ideas effectively will improve your life personally, professionally, and financially. Give it a try and after a while, not only will you get used to selling, you'll probably also enjoy it. Good luck!
