What separates a salesperson from an order taker? Perseverance, a gracious attitude and a willingness to listen in order to find a solution for the customer's problem are just a few qualities to look for in a real salesperson.

Steve Wiegle shares with readers at Smaller Indiana his observation of salespeople of the past to those of today and how you can strive to differentiate yourself in order to succeed.



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True Sense of Giving Gets Results

When the ego is set aside in order to discover what your customer -- or potential -- customer's needs are, you are sure to find success in sales. No ego means you can concentrate on helping them for their benefit, not yours. This sincerity will shine through, they'll trust you and like you, two important decision factors for them.

Chris Cooper shares with readers at Managing Salespeople ideas about giving more and getting creative to up your sales.



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February 3, 2009

Get Ahead in the Game

Continue to work on your sales skills and develop an understanding of your customers so that asking probing questions comes naturally, not like an inquest. There are many skills that can be enhanced with role-playing. Ask a friend to pretend they are a customer so you can get a feel for the interaction.

Alan Rigg shares some ideas on role-playing and skill development with readers at About.com.



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Role-Playing Tips

What is the best way to role-play? How does one go about it? Paul DiModica shares with readers at Detroiter Online 8 tips on how to get the most out of role-playing, how to set it up and maximize your efforts while practicing.



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Be the customer

It's always an asset to know how it feels to be in someone else's shoes. It gives you clarity, and lets you see how you are perceived by your customers. Here is a great article about selling timeshares that I am sure most salespeople can resonate with at some point in their sales career.

Alan Rigg shares his sales experience with readers at TrueYou Marketing.



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