Sales Tip of the Week from Mike Leeds – Pro Sales Coaching
Beware of Dogs!
I recently heard the story below from a friend of mine who has 2 Boxers (one weighs in at 75 lbs and the other weighs in at 90 lbs).
A sales guy recently came to his home selling alarm systems. There's a sign on the entry walkway, as well as on the door that states "Beware of Dogs." When the doorbell rang, the dogs went nuts (as most dogs will do). The front door opened, and the dogs wildly jumped on the screen door between them and the sales guy. The response from the sales guy was a quick "You don't need me or my services – you're good" and he quickly retreated.
We can debate whether an alarm need still existed for my friend (even with his built-in security detail), or if he was open to discussing the concept. I know these dogs, and they can be very tough on strangers (but very sweet when they know you, or know that their people welcome you). You can't blame the sales guy for thinking about his safety first - but we can blame him for assuming. Remember that "no" is the second best answer you can get. We know that "yes" is the best, but the worst answer is either no response or some sort of delay. In this case, there was no opportunity for an answer.
However, this did make for a funny story among friends.
Have a great sales week!