How do you define success as a salesperson? Many people relate success in terms of dollars and cents, or closing half a million in sales each month. But truly successful salespeople know that monetary success is just the result of being awesome at what they do.
If you’re just starting your journey as a sales rep, one of the first things to understand is that successful salespeople earn their customers’ trust, which in turn results in earning their customers’ business.
Here are seven traits of a successful salesperson and how your CRM can help you along the journey:
CRM sales tip: Look at the three most recent deals you closed and think about why they said yes. What are the takeaways or trends you found that could help you close the next deal?
CRM sales tip: Make notes on your customer account about your conversation and use these notes as a conversation topic the next time you call. For example, if your customer mentions she’s planning a birthday party for her son, make a note in your CRM record so next time you call you can ask her about the birthday party. This will go a long way in establishing trust and credibility.
CRM sales tip: Schedule “you time” on your CRM calendar. Try blocking out 30 minutes each morning to read motivational quotes, or take a walk around your office to think through your daily schedule. Whatever you choose to do during this time, focus on motivating yourself. Since Zoho CRM’s calendar integrates with Google Calendar, Outlook and CalDav, you can always stay on top of your schedule.
CRM sales tip : Be proactive in communicating with your potential customers. If you forgot to call a customer or missed an appointment, go ahead an send an apology to your customer letting them know you recognize your mistake. Being transparent with your customer will also build trust. Use your CRM to keep records of all interactions you have with a potential customer.
CRM sales tip: In your potential’s CRM record, create a custom text field where you can enter a list of questions that you plan on asking your potential customer. You can quickly update each question with the answer and use it as a reference for the next conversation you have with them.
CRM sales tip: Remember, confidence starts with knowledge. Spend time preparing before you meet with a prospect. Do research beforehand to find out what industry-related associations your prospect might be involved in or what they do for fun. Enter this information into the potential’s CRM record, so you have it handy before going to a meeting with your potential customer.
CRM sales tip: Use your preferred social media platform as a way to interact in your industry. Post blogs, reply to tweets, and share important facts that your customers and future customers are going to find valuable. Integrate your social media accounts with your CRM so you can keep all of the interactions you have with your customer in one place.