Happy new year!
The New Year is here, and with it comes new opportunities for salespeople. The past year, good or bad, is gone. If you had a good 2011, then you look to build on your success and make 2012 even better. If 2011 was not one of your better years, then it’s time to put the year behind you and move on to better things in 2012. It doesn’t matter what category you find yourself in as we approach the New Year, because it is a great time to review where you are, what works and where you can improve. With that said, here are a few things to remember after the champagne and the bowl games.
- Set your goals for the new year - Review your goals from 2011 and if you hit them, then raise them for 2012. If you came up a little short, then adjust your new goals accordingly
- Review the new product lines (if necessary) - A lot of companies introduce new products with the turn of the calendar, so make sure you are familiar with them. In addition, make sure you keep up with any changes to existing products.
- Send thank you notes from the holidays (if applicable) - Not every salesperson is going to do this depending on what you are selling. If you are selling less expensive items, then this may not apply to you. However if you are selling bigger ticket items, then it is high-quality customer service to take the time to write some thank you notes.
- Review the basics - Even salespeople who have been in the game for 20 or 30 years can always benefit from reviewing the fundamentals once or twice a year. Some of the basics may include: closing techniques, handling objections, adding-on and more.
- Remember to take time for yourself in the New Year - The holidays are over and salespeople work very hard in the last two months of the year, so don’t be afraid to take some time to recharge your batteries for the New Year.
There’s a popular saying in the world of sports that goes, "If you are not getting better, then you are getting worse. No one stays the same." As a professional salesperson, take the time and the steps to make sure you are on track to get better in 2012. HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Brad Huisken is President of IAS Training
Copyright 2012 Author retains ownership. All Rights Reserved
