Sales Tip of the Week from Mike Leeds – Pro Sales Coaching
If You Don’t Care – Don’t Ask
"How are you today?"
Sounds good – doesn't it? If the person asking really cares, it's great. However, I bet if you keep track of the number of people who ask you this question over a period of time, you'll find that they may not care about your response.
This topic has always been intriguing to me. I believe most people feel uncomfortable answering this question honestly when they don't know the person who's asking. It's considered personal, inappropriate or not relevant to the topic at hand. (When we know the person, and have a relationship with them, this may be very relevant and appropriate.) It's a "cheesy" way to break the ice when the caller is looking for an answer of "fine" and then hoping to move on to the next topic.
My goal is to make sure that people really care when they ask – or that they just don't use this approach to start a conversation. As a salesperson, please think about this point when you don’t have an existing relationship with the contact.
When I receive calls from people I don’t know, and am asked this question – I may answer them honestly and with details. They may be looking for a "fine," but they may get a lengthy answer. For example… Question: "How are you today?" Answer: "Great. I got up early extra this morning, had a great workout at the gym. Then, I stopped by Starbucks and got some coffee. Normally, I have a grande size of their bold coffee of the day, but since they had Sumatra, I had a venti size (large). It was so good; I ordered a second one for the road. Then, on the way to the office…" You get the idea.
Another option would be "busy" - which can instantly kill a call.
Or, I may say "terrible" and give them some details. This normally will also kill a call; however, you may be surprised at the number of times this response gets no answer at all, or an answer like "great." In either case, it's obvious that the person either doesn't care or isn't listening. Try one of the answers above next time you're asked "How are you today?" from someone you don’t know (live or on the phone).
If you're looking for an ice breaker, consider making a statement, like "I hope you’re having a great day" or just go into "Good Morning... the purpose of my call is…"
In either case, please keep this blog in mind before you ask "how are you today?"
Happy Selling!
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