Put a Spin on Your Questions

The next time you’re trying to identify a customer’s needs, remember the acronym SPIN.  S. Situation. What is the customer’s general background? This is important to know, as long as you don’t spend so much time exploring it that your prospect grows bored or impatient.  P. Problem. What problem does the customer face? How does this […]

How to Work a Customer in One Minute

You’re at a networking event or riding the elevator. Standing next to you is the ideal prospect, but this is no time to launch into a sales presentation. You’ve got one minute, at most, to explain who you are and what you sell in a way that will spark the prospect’s interest. Here’s what to […]

They’ll Need to See Your Message 29 Times Before They Buy

This is what some marketing experts call the “Law of 29.” Whether or not you agree with the number of exposures it takes through the sales cycle is not important. What is important is that your prospect is going to have to see your message over and over before he/she buys your product or service.  […]

Words That Kill the Sale

Despite the popular saying to the contrary, words can sometimes be stronger than actions. An example is when you’re presenting to a prospect, and you’ve covered all the bases, but the prospect still won’t say “yes.” Sometimes an adage applies: “It isn’t what you say; it’s the way that you say it.” In that case, your […]

Make Them an Offer They Can’t Refuse

If you make your customer feel comfortable about a potential purchase, you’ll improve your odds of making the sale. Put prospects at ease by giving them a free trial period or a money-back guarantee. Offer additional services or features in exchange for a quick buying decision. Add value to your product in ways your competition doesn’t (or can’t) […]