Sales Tip of the Week from Mike Leeds – Pro Sales Coaching
Be careful with politics on sales calls
As we are amid the election season, I thought it's time for a reminder that political opinions and conversations should have no place in your sales conversations. These very personal issues can create tension between you and your customer and may possibly derail your sales efforts.
You have probably already experienced some situations where you have had to decide on the correct approach or response. Let's discuss a few examples:
You've called upon your client and noticed campaign literature in the office. There's a possibility it may not be their personal work area, or their personal view. Avoid this conversation.
You received a political e-mail (you may have agreed or disagreed with the content). My advice is to not comment and keep your personal political views to yourself. As an additional note - don't forward these controversial messages to others (in or out of your business circle) from your business e-mail address.
You have considered placing a bumper sticker on your car supporting your candidate. If your vehicle is used for or during company business, you run the risk of alienating your customers – my recommendation is "just don't go there."
For business owners, I suggest a policy of prohibiting clothing/apparel supporting a candidate, or conversation on the work premises that could make other employees feel uncomfortable with their workplace. Keep the focus on providing excellent customer support (which benefits all employees).
Elections and politics in general can create situations that may be uncomfortable for you and your clients. While on sales calls, stay on your business topic and focus on helping people by solving their business problems and fulfilling their business needs. I recognize that successful sellers concentrate on relationship building – but focus on the specifics of their business (and avoid politics).
Happy Selling!
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