Sales Tip: Switch up your approach

Oct. 23, 2024
Modifying your approach toward non-customers can help you finally land that sale.

Think about each of the non-customers at your stops. Give some logical titles to each like Shy Guy, Big Mouth, Cheapskate, Know-it-all, etc. You may not really know each person enough to figure them out right away, but with observation and some little conversations, you will start to get an idea of what makes them tick.

If, for instance, your usual selling style is the hard-charging, always-be-closing style, I guarantee that the shop's resident Mr. Shy Guy is simply overwhelmed by your aggressive approach. Just like oil and water…they don’t mix.

I would recommend approaching this technician with a soft storytelling approach the next time you have a cool new tool that fits their job activities. Speak slowly, softly, and close gently. I know this isn’t your usual style, but you’re not selling Shy Guy now, so what’s the worst that can happen? Shy Guy says no again, but nothing ventured nothing gained.

On the other hand, if you’re normally using the counselor selling approach and the shop loudmouth is your target, you’d better step it up a notch and approach them with an aggressive, take-no-prisoners, always-be-closing approach. People tend (but not always) to like buying from people similar to themselves.

About the Author

Alan Sipe | President, Toolbox Sales and Consulting

Alan W. Sipe has spent the last 42 years in the basic hand tool industry including positions as President of KNIPEX Tools North America, Sr. VP Sales and Marketing at Klein Tools, Manager Special Markets at Stanley Tools and sales management at toolbox manufacturer Waterloo Industries. Currently Sipe is the owner of Toolbox Sales and Consulting specializing in sales strategy, structure, development and training. Sipe can be reached at [email protected] or 847-910-1063. Connect with Sipe on LinkedIn.

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