Tell me something good!

Okay, I've shared a lot of my personal views, tips, and expertise and now it's your turn to share. I'm a Beauty Editor but I'm not necessarily a salesperson. In fact, even when my jewelry line was being sold in boutiques throughout Michigan, I hated the selling part of it. It wasn't comfortable for me and I don't like to be the center of attention - so my sales happened in spite of me, not because of my selling skills. So when I find myself faced with writing about selling, I figure it makes great sense to consult the experts - that would be you! There's a lot of learning that can come from sharing "war stories" (sorry, that's what we called them in consulting). So, I'd love to hear your stories and share what I can with others who are striving to be sales experts too. Tell me something good about:

• What do you wish someone had told you before you ever started talking to a customer? Always be prepared. Don't forget a mint. Anything that you've gone, "Man, I wish someone had told me that..." 
• How you talk to your customers and get them to listen?
• What you say to close a sale? And what don't you say?
• How have you been innovative in introducing products to your customers? Love the comment/suggestion given in When the going gets tough ...
• What do you do to keep track of your customers and make sure they're happy? How do you earn their trust?
• What do you consider your greatest sales success?
• What's your biggest sales slip? Maybe you missed out on an opportunity or weren't prepared for a meeting. Hey, it happens to all of us. And many times that's when I've learned the most.

 I'm all ears! And I know you've got some great stuff to share.

Thanks for offering your expertise!

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