Selling for many is quite a difficult task and that becomes more arduous for those of a more introvert rather than extrovert personality. Many would argue there is a bit of both traits in everyone, even if in varying proportions and also dependent on the situation each individual finds him/herself in. For example, a motivational speaker may be extroverted in the line of duty but much more introverted in his private life.

The ability to sell in #business is one of the most important, if not the most important skill-set needed. However, unfortunately, hardly will you find any business school that teaches sales as a separate course, or series of courses. Irrespective of how important sales is to a company, it is safe to say sales is highly underrated and often overlooked compared to strategy, leadership, finance and other business ideas and skills.

As a business owner, don’t make mistake of the business schools. Sales are critical. It is the lifeblood of your business. Even if you are a true introvert, here are some tips to help you towards successful selling:

PASSION

Being passionate about the product or service you are selling certainly makes you less interested about what people think of you and more about the excitement you derive for showing what you have to offer.

ATTITUDE CHANGE

You need to change your attitude about sales. Many people associate sales with convincing someone to buy something they don’t want or need, so they are trying to sell things to the wrong people, which is a sure way to end up with a bad reputation.

BE PERSISTENT

Make sure you get criticised for being persistent as you won’t become successful in the world of sales if you never get criticised. As long as you believe in your product/service, company and yourself, you should be willing to risk being criticised for your persistence. Afterwards, people will begin to admire you for your tenacity.

RESEARCH

Do your research very well, as it is more efficient to first and foremost figure out who needs your product and service, and who is the right person to talk to at your target company rather than chasing shadows like a headless chicken probing for sales, where there are no leads.

BUILD EVERYDAY INTERACTION

Gradually build everyday interaction with people by forcing yourself to look everyone in the eye and say hello. It enables you to build the muscle, which decides at will when to switch on your extroverted side especially during sales situations or any other situation.

USE WARM LEADS

One of the best strategies to achieve successful selling whether as an introvert or extrovert is through the use of warm leads. Find out who knows the person you need to talk to, and how you can get a warm introduction so you can at least have the chance to say whatever you want to say to your target.

FORCE YOURSELF TO SOCIALIZE

Make sure to step out of your home/place of work regularly so you get the chance to socialize with people. The more you socialize, the more comfortable you get around people and this can be useful weaponry for successful selling.

DELIVER PUBLIC SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

A sure way to become comfortable speaking to people is to get in front of audiences. Also join supportive groups, where people learn how to speak in front of others.

ROLE PLAY

It also helps to have your partner/friend play the role of a prospect. Work through your pitch with him/her so that it becomes more automatic for you whenever you go on sales outing.

Remember, few people are natural sales people, but as an #entrepreneur it is a skill you need to build, hone and master, no matter your personality type.

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