by Chakira Ward

Created on: April 27, 2009   Last Updated: June 13, 2009

Being a salesperson is not an easy job, you must obtain the three P's, personality, patience, and persistence. Those tools paired with a little training and you've earned yourself a degree in hustlenomics. Below are a few tips to get you on the right path to becoming a successful salesperson............

1. Learn everything there is to know about your product. There is nothing worse than approaching a salesperson that has absolutely no knowledge about the product they are selling. When meeting with a customer, you must be prepared to answer several questions, the customer needs to be sure that the product is worth buying.

2. Set goals for yourself. Depending on the company you work for, you might have to meet a monthly quota, some of the time, not meeting those quotas can cost you your job. Get a little extra ambition by setting goals for yourself, doing so will give you the drive that is needed to make those sales.

3. Put your sales plan in action. Do not wait for customers to approach you, if possible, make the first move. If the patient is does not ask for help, it doesn't mean they don't have questions, the fact that they are at your store shows there's an interest.

4. Advertise. Get business cards made and pass them out to potential customers. Post them on bulletin boards at your local grocery stores, shopping malls, your doctors office etc.

5. Listen to the customer. Give them an opportunity to explain what they are looking for, and patiently listen to any and all questions they have.

6. Match the customers needs with the proper product. Being a sales associate is not all about making money, offer the product that best fits what the customer is looking for.

7. Explain why your product is good for them. You are more likely to make the sale if the customer understands how much the item can benefit them.

8. Make the sale. After you have discussed pros and cons, ask if the customer is interested in making the purchase.

9. Ask for referrals. Being a good salesperson will bring you repeat customers, if they leave with a smile, more than likely, they won't mind sending friends and family your way.

10. Follow-up. Contact the customer to find out if they are satisfied with their purchase, this shows the customer that you have their best interest at hand.

Put in the extra effort to go above and beyond the customers needs, it will benefit you in the future. The tips listed above covers the basics, feel free to add a little, now you're on your way to being the best salesperson.

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