4 Ways To Level Up As A Salesperson

Any salesperson knows that in order to be successful, you have to invest time into improving.

Improving as a sales professional is, of course, about being better at processes and strategies, but it’s more than that. It’s about working on your attributes and soft-skills, as well as staying on top of industry trends, connecting with the right people, and constantly looking to be more innovative.

But how do you improve on all of these things by just doing your job? You don’t.

To succeed in anything, especially sales, you have to go above and beyond just your job responsibilities.

By constantly finding ways to improve, you’ll always be one step ahead because you’ll have the motivation, passion, and resilience to keep going, keep learning, and keep challenging yourself. 

Keep reading for four ways you can improve your sales career. 

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR RESOURCES

The sales industry is constantly on the move. Whether it’s due to the market, new technology, or new techniques, you need to stay ahead of the game – especially when it comes to liaising with prospects and clients.

Here are a few ways you can do that:

1. PODCASTS: Many sales and business podcasts are hosted by industry experts and thought leaders. These podcasts will be relevant and thought-provoking, providing valuable insights, tips, and strategies that can sharpen your sales acumen. 

2. BOOKS: Books on topics like negotiation, relationship-building, and sales psychology can provide valuable guidance and practical advice. 

3. SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS: These events offer valuable opportunities to gain insights, hear success stories, and participate in interactive sessions that can enhance your sales abilities. It’s also a great way to stay updated on relevant events and what’s ahead.

DON’T TRY TO DEVELOP ALONE

While salespeople often think being a lone wolf is the best path to success, the truth is… it’s not. Without teamwork, you’re missing out on so much value. Here's why:

1. DIVERSITY: Getting involved with your team opens doors to different perspectives, ideas, and approaches. You never want your sales techniques to feel old, but the only way to gain fresh insight is by learning from others.

2. SUPPORT AND MOTIVATION: Sales can be tough so a support system is always needed. It boosts morale, keeps you motivated, and reminds you that you’re not alone. 

3. CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION: Increased creativity is inevitable when you’re brainstorming and sharing tips with your team. But increased creativity is less likely when you’re trying to brainstorm on your own.

CHALLENGE YOUR SALES SKILLS

No one improves by staying in their comfort zone.

Sales is all about pushing yourself, finding new strategies, and experimenting. It’s not something you can do by staying the same because there are always things to learn.

Start by identifying areas where you feel less confident and make a conscious effort to challenge yourself to work on it and try it out. For instance, if you always avoid cold calling because it’s awkward or you just don’t feel confident enough, this is your chance to pick up the phone and give it a go. Even if it doesn’t go well the first, second, or 20th time, eventually you’ll feel more confident – not just in cold calling, but in everything attached to that:

• Building rapport

• Negotiating

• Closing deals

• And much more

And not to mention, it will naturally expand your horizons. By trying new things, you’re opening yourself up to untapped opportunities, new methods, and new connections that you wouldn’t have otherwise had.

SALES IS ABOUT PERSISTANCE

Practice makes perfect – especially in sales. Experience is such a valuable asset and by simply carrying on, you’ll keep getting better and better.

Nothing good comes overnight and to ensure you’re solidifying all you’re learning, as well as minimising stress and keeping a healthy work-life balance, you have to give yourself time to keep progressing.

Approach every interaction, every call, and every task as an opportunity to refine your skills and before you know it, you’ll not only feel confident but you would have built a good reputation for yourself. 

As long as you keep a growth mindset and commit to ongoing learning, you’ll build a solid foundation for the rest of your sales career.

- Written by Arun Sutton

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