As someone who has never been involved in the world of sales, I recently had the opportunity to spend the day with Megan Shaffer, one of our company’s Business Relationship Managers. This experience opened my eyes to the dynamic and challenging nature of sales. Here are the top three things I learned about people who excel as sales professionals: they are resilient, think outside the box, and build relationships with the client. 

Resilience in the Face of Rejection 

During this ride-along, we visited several businesses, and despite facing rejection, Megan remained undeterred. Each “no” was met with a smile and a renewed determination to find the next opportunity. This tenacity is crucial in sales, where persistence often leads to success. Resilience is not just about enduring challenges but also about maintaining a proactive and optimistic attitude in the face of adversity. 

Thinking Outside the Box 

Sales Professionals are constantly thinking freely. During our visits, Megan identified businesses that used labels on their packaging and recommended utilizing our services to print labels in house and save money. This approach was something I would not have considered, highlighting the creativity and strategic thinking employed making megan more of a Business Relationship Manager because she is also an advisor. The innovative thinking did not end there; she also suggested unique ways our products could solve specific problems for these businesses, demonstrating a deep understanding of their needs and how our solutions could add value. This experience taught me that successful sales are not just about selling a product but about offering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. 

Building Relationships 

Lastly, I was impressed by Megans relationships with the clients. We stopped by to see existing clients, and I could see they were more like friends than clients. She engaged in an organic conversation, ensuring they were satisfied with their machines and our company’s service. This personal touch not only strengthens client relationships but also builds trust and loyalty. Megan’s genuine interest in the client’s well-being and her proactive approach to addressing any concerns they had was a testament to her commitment to customer satisfaction. It was clear that the relationship with the client didn’t end with the sale; it was an ongoing partnership built on trust and mutual respect. 

My experience with Megan was enlightening. It gave me a newfound respect for the resilience, creativity, and customer-centric approach that successful sales professionals embody. These qualities are essential for success in sales and are valuable lessons for anyone, regardless of their field. Whether it’s staying resilient in the face of challenges, thinking creatively to solve problems, or prioritizing the needs of others, these lessons are universally applicable and can lead to greater success and fulfillment in any career.