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	<title>Sales Blog - MTD Sales Training - Sean McPheat &#187; Sales Interactions</title>
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	<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog</link>
	<description>Learn how to improve your sales and close more deals!</description>
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		<title>Using LinkedIn Groups To Network And Engage With Key Decision Makers</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/using-linkedin-groups-to-network-and-engage-with-key-decision-makers.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/using-linkedin-groups-to-network-and-engage-with-key-decision-makers.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:43:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[eselling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LinkedIn Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Presell & Positioning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prospecting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Techy Tuesdays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[engaging with key decision makers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LinkedIn Groups]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marketing Manager]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MTD Sales Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[networking]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4713</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Recent statistics released by the LinkedIn Ads group showed that nearly 50% of LinkedIn members are in a key decision maker role such as Manager, Director, Owner, Chief Officer or Vice President – once again proving that LinkedIn really is the biggest and best decision maker search engine in the world! So how can you [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Recent statistics released by the LinkedIn Ads group showed that nearly 50% of <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/how-effective-is-your-linkedin-teaser.html">LinkedIn</a> members are in a key decision maker role such as Manager, Director, Owner, Chief Officer or Vice President – once again proving that LinkedIn really is the biggest and best decision maker search engine in the world!<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4715" title="Connect" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Connect-Idea-go-300x190.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="190" /></a></p>
<p>So how can you delve into this network of <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/even-after-all-of-this-web-stuff-you-still-need-to-engage-with-your-prospects.html">key decision makers</a> and engage with them on a one-to-one level? Well, a great way to gain direct contact with these desired connections is to strike up a conversation with them in one of the many LinkedIn groups that the platform has to offer.</p>
<p>The chances are that you will already be connected to some of these key decision makers through your current groups, but you can also research which groups these ideal contacts are members of simply by visiting their profile. Here you will find a list of all the groups they are involved with, so it’s wise to go in to a few of these and see which ones they are the most active in – as most people will join lots of groups but may only contribute regularly within a certain few, so seek these out.</p>
<p>Once you have found out where your key contacts are hanging out on <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/how-to-prospect-on-linkedin-through-your-connections.html">LinkedIn</a>, you can then enter the discussion and strike up conversation with them by commenting on their recent posts or starting a relevant discussion of your own which you feel they would be likely to interact with.</p>
<p>The key to being successful when prospecting and networking via the LinkedIn groups is to be genuine with your interactions and contribute useful content – without turning everything you say into a sales pitch. By all means share your blog posts and link to your webpages in your responses, but only if this adds real value to the discussion.</p>
<p>Once you have gained a decent level of interaction with these key decision makers, and offered plenty of friendly and free advice (without trying to sell them anything straight away) you can then send them an invitation to connect with your personally.</p>
<p>Better still, you could contact them directly by email or on the phone to see if they would like you to send over your latest whitepaper or pop into their office for a chat about how you could help them in their business.</p>
<p>Certain groups even organise networking events for their members, so if you find out one of your key decision makers is attending one of these get-togethers then why not offer to meet them there, and turn your online networking into a <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/dont-get-too-excited-after-the-prospect-says-yes.html">face-to-face interaction</a>.</p>
<p>Networking and engaging with your desired prospects in this way is none threatening and is likely to yield a better response than spamming them with emails or trying to cold call, so make the most of your LinkedIn groups and show these connections why they should want you as a contact.</p>
<p><strong>That’s all for now folks, see you again soon for another Techy Tuesday. </strong></p>
<p>Regards,</p>
<p>Louise</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog"><img title="Louise Denny" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/DSC_0477-1-twitter-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>
<p>Louise Denny</p>
<p>Marketing Manager</p>
<p>(Image by Idea Go)</p>
<div>
<p><strong>Stop scratching around for sales</strong> and learn <strong>how to sell the modern way</strong> with Sean McPheat’s <strong>FREE</strong> <strong>40 minute</strong> online training session. <strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why <strong>you’ve got to be changing</strong> the way that you prospect and sell…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.e-selling.com/" target="_blank"><img title="eselling book" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/eselling-book1-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a></p>
</div>
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		<title>What To Do When The Prospect Wants To Engage In Sensitive Talk Like Politics or Religion</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/what-to-do-when-the-prospect-wants-to-engage-in-sensitive-talk-like-politics-or-religion.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/what-to-do-when-the-prospect-wants-to-engage-in-sensitive-talk-like-politics-or-religion.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Controversial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Presentations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[keeping control in sales interaction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales small talk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales warm up]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[selling and politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[selling and religion]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4706</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Often you get that prospect that wants to get you into a conversation about a sensitive issue such as political beliefs or theology. Also, there are those prospects that wish to use you as their personal sounding board for personal views on everything from racial issues to the sexual relations. It does not matter if [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/what-to-do-when-the-prospect-wants-to-engage-in-sensitive-talk-like-politics-or-religion.html"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4710" title="Talk Talk" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Talk-Talk-300x220.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="220" /></a>Often you get that prospect that wants to get you into a <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/should-you-wing-it-or-have-a-structured-sales-interaction.html" target="_blank">conversation </a>about a sensitive issue such as political beliefs or theology. Also, there are those prospects that wish to use you as their personal <em>sounding board</em> for personal views on everything from racial issues to the sexual relations.</p>
<p>It does not matter if your personal views on such issues are the exact opposite of the prospect’s, or if they align perfectly. Views on unrelated personal beliefs are always a bumpy and dangerous road to travel in a sales situation.</p>
<p>Of course, you don’t want to be rude, and closing the sale is on the top of your mind. So how do you get the prospect <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-ways-to-make-small-talk-pay-big-dividends.html" target="_blank">back on track</a>, without throwing away your chances to close the sale? Here are a few thoughts on that subject. In every case, you want to “side-step” the issue with a quick comment and then change the subject with a question.</p>
<p><strong>#1 – That’s Interesting, but Deserves More Time</strong><br />
Let the prospect know that the subject matter is interesting but requires far too much time and in-depth discussion to engage in now. Then change the subject with a question.</p>
<p>“You know Steve, that is a very interesting point of view, and it certainly deserves a lot of time to discuss. Maybe we can get into that someday, but for right now, let me ask you&#8230; Do you know exactly how many of your web hits are being converted into solid leads for your sales team?”</p>
<p><strong>#2 – Too Excited About the Product</strong><br />
Let the prospect know that you are so engrossed in what you sell, that you cannot even think about such other topics right now.</p>
<p>“Sarah, I can appreciate how you feel about that. However, I am so excited about our XJ2000 software that I can hardly think about politics right now&#8230;How many servers are you running at this location, anyway?”</p>
<p><strong>#3 – Your Issues, Problems Are Too Important</strong><br />
Inform the prospect that his or her problems and issues are your paramount concern right now and you can only focus on that.</p>
<p>“Susan, I understand how you feel about that issue, but right now my main concern is that you are losing a ton of money in your warehouse. My job is to help you put some of that money back into your pocket. Do you have last month’s shipping report available?”</p>
<p>From the warm up to the close, keep the sales process on track.</p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat<br />
<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p><strong>Stop scratching around for sales</strong> and learn <strong>how to sell the modern way</strong> with my <strong>FREE</strong> <strong>40 minute</strong> online training session. <strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why <strong>you’ve got to be changing</strong> the way that you prospect and sell…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.e-selling.com/" target="_blank"><img title="eselling book" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/eselling-book1-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a></p>
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		<title>3 Ways To Make Small Talk Pay Big Dividends</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-ways-to-make-small-talk-pay-big-dividends.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-ways-to-make-small-talk-pay-big-dividends.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Presell & Positioning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Presentations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[building rapport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[get information before sales interaction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[How to build rapport]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales presentation plan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales small talk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales warm up]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tailor your presentation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[warm up]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4674</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Some call it “small talk.” Others refer to it as the “warm up.” You know; it’s that idle, incidental banter between you and the prospect as you get things into place before the sales interaction. This warm up talk is more important than many realise and can steer the sales process in a positive or [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Some call it “small talk.” Others refer to it as the “warm up.” You know; it’s that idle, incidental banter between you and the prospect as you get things into place before the<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-ways-to-make-small-talk-pay-big-dividends.html"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4689" title="Talking" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Talking-renjith-krishnan-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a> sales interaction. This warm up talk is more important than many realise and can steer the sales process in a positive or negative direction. In addition, this time for many sales people and prospective customers, is a <em>waste</em> of time. So, read on as I share a few tips on making sure this SMALL talk pays BIG dividends.</p>
<p><strong>Part of the Sales Interaction</strong><br />
First, you need to pay as much attention to the structure and <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/should-you-wing-it-or-have-a-structured-sales-interaction.html" target="_blank">planning </a>of the warm up as you do to the rest of the sales interaction. The warm up IS part of the sales interaction and an integral part of the entire <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/how-to-design-an-effective-sales-process-step-i-the-total-time.html" target="_blank">sales process</a>. Do not take for granted this period, and keep in mind the following three ideas.</p>
<p><strong>#1 &#8211; Prevent the Conversation From Going Off Target.</strong><br />
You want to make sure the direction of the talk does not veer too far off on a tangent such as becoming too personal for the product or service at issue. It is fine to touch briefly on topics like the family and children and sports, etc., especially if the product warrants such information. However, be careful not to let this become liken to two ol’ buddy’s having a pint at the local pub. This is business.</p>
<p>Far too often sales people fall into the trap of trying to become <em>best friends</em> with the prospect first. While it is important to develop a good <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/5-ways-to-kill-rapport-with-your-clients.html" target="_blank">rapport </a>with the prospect, today’s modern and educated buyer is not going to buy from you just because you are a nice and likable person.</p>
<p>You also want to direct the conversation so it does not delve into sensitive areas such as politics or religion. Even if you may happen to agree with the buyer’s views on those kinds of topics, they are always dangerous during a sales call.</p>
<p><strong>#2 – Gather More Information</strong><br />
Use this time to get more information that will help close the sale. Ask questions that are of a warm up nature, yet have a business foundation. As an example, you may make a comment on how nice the prospect’s office looks when you walk in. Take that comment to another level and get some information that may aid in the sales process.</p>
<p>As an example, let’s say this sales person sells computer hardware and services. Instead of:</p>
<p><strong>Sales Person</strong><br />
“Wow, Sarah! This is a great office! Beautiful, and you have such a lovely view of the water.”</p>
<p><strong>Prospect</strong><br />
“Thank you. I like it.”</p>
<p>Try&#8230;</p>
<p><strong>Sales Person</strong><br />
“Wow, Sarah! This is a great office! Beautiful, and you have such a lovely view of the water. Do you own the whole floor?”</p>
<p><strong>Prospect</strong><br />
“Yes. Our office goes all the way around the building and we have two other floors as well.”</p>
<p><strong>Sales Person</strong><br />
“That’s great. So, about how many employees in this building?”</p>
<p><strong>Prospect</strong><br />
“Oh, a little over 300 at this location.”</p>
<p><strong>Sales Person</strong><br />
“So, that’s at least 300 PCs&#8230;How many servers operating here?”</p>
<p>You get the idea. Use the warm up to get information.</p>
<p><strong>#3 – Position the Buyer as a Client</strong><br />
Use the warm up to help <em>paint the picture</em> of the prospect as a customer. In other words, make comments that show the prospect that many of your clients are his or her peers and share many of the same problems and issues; issues that you have solved for them.</p>
<p><strong>Prospect</strong><br />
“Yeah well, we used to be over on Coventry Lane and I had over 500,000 square feet. But with the economy downturn, I had to relocate to this smaller facility.”</p>
<p><strong>Sales Person</strong><br />
“Oh, I understand that, Steve. In fact, I was able to assist several of my clients, right after they made that type of transition&#8230;”</p>
<p>Plan the warm up. It is part of the sales presentation.</p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat<br />
<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p><strong>Stop scratching around for sales</strong> and learn <strong>how to sell the modern way</strong> with my <strong>FREE</strong> <strong>40 minute</strong> online training session. <strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why <strong>you’ve got to be changing</strong> the way that you prospect and sell…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.e-selling.com/" target="_blank"><img title="eselling book" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/eselling-book1-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a></p>
<p> (Image by Renjith Krishnan)</p>
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		<title>The 3 Biggest Listening Mistakes Sales People Make And How to Avoid Them</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/the-3-biggest-listening-mistakes-sales-people-make-and-how-to-avoid-them.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/the-3-biggest-listening-mistakes-sales-people-make-and-how-to-avoid-them.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication Skills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[3 biggest listening mistakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[excellent listening skills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[improve listening skills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[listen effectively]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[listening for content]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[listening for intent]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4643</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Listening skills&#8230; Every sales manager and director tells you how important they are but do they actually tell you how to improve them! As sales people elevate their sales skills in other areas, often the area of listening begins to suffer, and usually it is the more experienced pros who are the biggest culprits. There are reasons [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/the-3-biggest-listening-mistakes-sales-people-make-and-how-to-avoid-them.html"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4650" title="Listen" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Listen-by-highersights-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a>Listening skills&#8230;</p>
<p>Every sales manager and director tells you how important they are but do they actually tell you how to improve them!</p>
<p>As sales people elevate their sales skills in other areas, often the area of listening begins to suffer, and usually it is the more experienced pros who are the biggest culprits. There are reasons that listening skills deteriorate over time in the sales business and below are the main three. Avoid these mental <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-deadly-sales-management-mistakes.html" target="_blank">mistakes </a>and you will increase your listening skills and close more sales!</p>
<p><strong>Listening Mistake #1 = Knowing the questions and answers before you hear them</strong><br />
One of the main problems happens as sales people get to the point where they know all of the answers. You have heard all of the objections a thousand times and you believe you already know what the prospect is going to say. When this happens, it is easy to hear but a fraction of what the prospect actually says, as you mentally anticipate the rest of the question or statement. The problem is that often you are incorrect. You THINK you heard what the prospect said, when you really heard what was in your mind.</p>
<p><strong>Solution:</strong> To help avoid this, look to discover new answers and thoughts. Try to make them tell you something you have not heard before. This can only help you get better. When the prospect begins that question that you know you have heard before; stop and try to find what is different about this question. To your surprise, you will find some <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/top-6-qualities-of-the-modern-day-sales-professional.html" target="_blank"><em>new</em> </a>thoughts and ideas.</p>
<p><strong>Listening Mistake #2 = Formulating your response before the prospect has finished</strong><br />
Following mistake #1, many sales people begin to formulate their response to the prospect as the prospect is still speaking. The prospect begins to explain his or her concern. You believe you know exactly what they are going to say, and you begin rehearsing in your mind what you will say back. Anxious to obliterate the prospect’s objection immediately, often the sales person will <em>cut off</em> the prospect in mid-sentence.</p>
<p><strong>Solution:</strong> Wait until the prospect has completed their thought, and then count to three before you open your mouth. This not only helps you listen and digest exactly what the prospect said, but it also helps you avoid belittling the prospect. Do not be too quick to “have an answer for everything.” Take time and let the prospect see that you are thinking and that his or her concern is important.</p>
<p><strong>Listening Mistake #3 = Lack of eye contact</strong><br />
Most sales people diligently try to maintain eye contact when they are speaking. However, many seem to wander as the prospect talks. Listening entails more than just your ears. You have to listen with your eyes and emotions.</p>
<p><strong>Solution:</strong> Maintain constant eye contact every time the prospect says anything. Take in and note the prospect’s body language, facial expression and movements. You need to SEE and FEEL what the prospect is saying in addition to hearing it.</p>
<p>So, lose the sales <em>Crystal Ball</em> that tells you exactly what the prospect will say before they say it. Don’t write your thank you speech before the game is over and listen with your eyes as well as your ears.</p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat<br />
<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p>(Image by HigherSights)</p>
<p><strong>Stop scratching around for sales</strong> and learn <strong>how to sell the modern way</strong> with my <strong>FREE</strong> <strong>40 minute</strong> online training session. <strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why <strong>you’ve got to be changing</strong> the way that you prospect and sell…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.e-selling.com/" target="_blank"><img title="eselling book" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/eselling-book1-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Should You “Wing It” or Have A Structured Sales Interaction?</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/should-you-wing-it-or-have-a-structured-sales-interaction.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/should-you-wing-it-or-have-a-structured-sales-interaction.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Mindset]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Presentations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Process]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[canned script]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[collaborative sales interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[planned sales scripts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[planned vs canned]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales presentation plan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales scripts]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4614</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Whenever the idea of a planned presentation comes up, usually the first thing sales people think about is a “canned script.” In a canned script, I am referring to the old-fashioned, smile-and-dial era, word-for-word, rehearsed, “Pitch.” Such was a primary tool of sales people, in particular telemarketers, years ago. Alternatively, we had the opposite of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Whenever the idea of a planned presentation comes up, usually the first thing sales people think about is a “canned script.” In a canned script, I am referring to the old-fashioned, <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/art-of-cold-calling.html" target="_blank">smile-and-dial </a>era, word-for-word, rehearsed, “<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/get-rid-of-the-pitch-mentality.html" target="_blank">Pitch</a>.” Such was a primary tool of sales people, in particular telemarketers, years ago. Alternatively, we had the <em>opposite</em> of the canned spiel with the <em>show up and throw up</em> method, where sales people just walked in and did whatever they thought came natural.</p>
<p>While most sales professionals have rose above the smile and dial pitch, the question arises of the validity of using a planned sales presentation today. While not exactly a <em>throw-up</em> tactic, many still believe it is best to know all you can know about your product and prospect, and then just go in and let the sales interaction flow impromptu, directed by the prospect’s interests. So, dealing with today’s modern and educated buyer, should you play-it-by-ear and wing it, or use a planned and structured sales interaction?</p>
<p><strong>Defining a Planned Sales Interaction</strong><br />
I believe that for the majority of selling situations, you should use a well-planned and structured sales presentation; but allow me to define exactly what I mean.</p>
<p>Although with a planned presentation, you may have a few words or phrases that you might use verbatim, I am not talking about a<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4616" title="Planned Sales Interaction" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/1-22-2012-2-11-22-PM1.jpg" alt="" width="229" height="229" /> canned script. By a planned presentation, I am referring to <em>“a thoroughly interactive, yet totally controlled methodical process that systemically moves the sale through incremental, yet critical stages, accomplishing interim goals at each step, while maximizing the odds of closing the sale.”</em></p>
<p>You can keep your sales interaction feeling impromptu, but you must have a way to control the direction and outcomes. You should have a step-by-step process that leads to a successful conclusion. In such, you can maintain the flexibility to adapt to responses, yet keep the process on track towards a narrow objective.</p>
<p><strong>A Strategy</strong><br />
A Planned sales interaction is a strategy. With a planned interaction, you want to know what you need to accomplish at each stage of the presentation. For instance, in your first step, you may want to design proper seating arrangements as soon as you arrive. Or you may want to find out more about the prospect’s delivery systems during your warm-up talk. Perhaps you need to uncover more about the current contract the prospect has with a competitor.</p>
<p>In your second stage, perhaps you need to uncover exactly how much the prospect is spending on the outdated system, how much time their people are wasting due to lack of training. It is a plan on what you need to accomplish and when.</p>
<p><strong>Planned VS Canned</strong><br />
So what is the difference between a planned sales interaction and a canned pitch?</p>
<p>A Canned Script – PUSHES: Pushes benefits, forces ideas, and minimises interaction.<br />
A Planned Structure – Pulls: Pulls out problems, uncovers pain and maximises interaction.</p>
<p>A Canned Script – SUPPRESSES: Suppresses responses and objections and stifles emotion.<br />
A Planned Structure &#8211; EXTRACTS: Extracts responses and objections early or avoids them and stimulates emotion.</p>
<p>A Canned Script – TELLS: Tells the prospect things.<br />
A Planned Structure – ASKS: Asks the prospect questions.</p>
<p>In dealing with today’s sophisticated and educated buyer, now more than ever, you need to have a well-thought-out plan. You must have a strategy to accomplish every sales goal, including just setting an appointment.</p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat<br />
<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p><strong>Stop scratching around for sales</strong> and learn <strong>how to sell the modern way</strong> with my <strong>FREE</strong> <strong>40 minute</strong> online training session. <strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why <strong>you’ve got to be changing</strong> the way that you prospect and sell…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.e-selling.com/" target="_blank"><img title="eselling book" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/eselling-book1-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Three Ways Of Asking For the Sale, That ASK For The Sale</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/three-ways-of-asking-for-the-sale-that-ask-for-the-sale.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/three-ways-of-asking-for-the-sale-that-ask-for-the-sale.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Objection Handling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Questioning Skills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[asking questions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[closing questions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[closing techniques]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[closing the sale]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4432</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In the recent post, “Are You Really Asking For The Order?” I talked about how many sales people suffer with using weak, fearful closes that do not actually ask for the order. A few of them are: 1. Waiting for the prospect to take the initiative and ask for the sale 2. Asking the prospect [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the recent post, <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/are-you-really-asking-for-the-order.html" target="_blank">“Are You Really Asking For The Order?” </a>I talked about how many sales people suffer with using weak, fearful closes that do not actually ask for the order. A few of them are:</p>
<p>1. Waiting for the prospect to take the initiative and ask for the sale<br />
2. Asking the prospect what they think<br />
3. Using some inducement with the hopes the prospect will <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/a-powerful-way-to-close-the-husband-and-wife-team.html" target="_blank">initiate the sale</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/three-ways-of-asking-for-the-sale-that-ask-for-the-sale.html"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4438" title="Sign here" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Sign-here-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a>Now let us look at a few more direct and clear ways to ask for the sale that will help you make more money.</p>
<p><strong>#1. Sign Here</strong><br />
There are not too many ways to be more direct when closing than to ask to prospect to put their signature on the order form or contract. Such closing requires a strong and confident sales person, as well as some very tactful wording. Here’s an example:</p>
<p>Sales Person<br />
With order pad or contract in hand, uses pen to direct the prospect’s eyes as he speaks, carefully watching the prospect for reactions, says:</p>
<p>“So Steve, the whole thing looks like this: We have the two dozen cases of the extra-wide widgets, two cases of the medium, and one case of the small. It all comes to only £2,844, plus shipping.”</p>
<p>Sales Person turns the order, placing it and the pen in front of prospect, and saying:</p>
<p>“Now all I need is your OK right there Steve, and I’ll put a rush order on the shipping.”</p>
<p>Like I said, such a close is not for the timid.</p>
<p><strong>#2. The Alternate of Choice</strong><br />
Though many sales people use this method to ask for the order, often they do so with little conviction and strength. Verify order details or logistics by giving the prospect two options, but you have to do it with an assumptive attitude. You have to believe that you are merely verifying the details, or it comes across as a con and the prospect will feel as if you are trying to manipulate them.</p>
<p>Give the prospect the alternative of choice between two buying or logistical options</p>
<p>Sales Person:<br />
“Finally, Sarah, we will deliver, install and test the software. The total comes to £3,400 for the first year and then £425 per year in maintenance fees. Now, do you want to set up the installation for Friday, or the beginning of next week?”</p>
<p>Sales Person:<br />
“The whole thing comes to only £2,844, plus shipping. So, Steve should I put that on a rush order, or our normal 4-day delivery?”</p>
<p><strong>#3. Ask a Closing Question, Shake Hands, Congratulate and Assume the Rest</strong><br />
This also requires confidence. Ask a closing or bridge question, and then assume the sale. By a bridge question, I am referring to that question that simply helps bridge that gap between the end of the sales presentation and the time you strongly ask for the order.</p>
<p>A few I really like are: “Does that make sense?” and “Is that fair enough?” Asks such a question, congratulate the prospect on making a great decision, and start writing up the order. You can also use such a bridge with the above closes as well.</p>
<p>Sales Person:<br />
“Finally, Sarah, we will deliver, install and test the software. The total comes to £3,400 for the first year and then £425 per year in maintenance fees. Does that make sense?”</p>
<p>Prospect:<br />
“Yeah. It looks good.”</p>
<p>Sales Person: Extends hand to shake&#8230;<br />
“Great Sarah! Congratulations. You have made one of the best decisions you can possibly make in your IT department. We have a little paperwork to take care of and we’ll be all set&#8230;”</p>
<p>Also, use this close combined with the above&#8230;</p>
<p>Sales Person:<br />
“The whole thing comes to only £2,844, plus shipping. Is that fair enough, Steve?</p>
<p>Prospect:<br />
“Yeah. It looks like a good rate.”</p>
<p>Sales Person:<br />
“Great Steve. So, Steve should I put that on a rush order, or our normal 4-day delivery?”</p>
<p>It is normal for people to want to put off making a decision. It is your job to help them make that decision and you cannot do that if you do not properly ask them to make a decision.</p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat<br />
<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p>Have you downloaded my latest report<strong> “The Sales Person’s Crisis”? </strong>Over 10,000 sales pros have.</p>
<p><strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why you’re very existence as a sales person is in doubt…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.salescrisis.com/"><img title="Sales Persons Crisis" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Sales-Persons-Crisis8.jpg" alt="" width="197" height="254" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Are You Really Asking For The Order?</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/are-you-really-asking-for-the-order.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/are-you-really-asking-for-the-order.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Poor Examples]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Questioning Skills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[asking the right sales questions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[closing lines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[closing techniques]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[closing the sale]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4404</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Failing to Ask For the Sale A problem that many sales people have is that they do not properly ask for the order. They do not clearly ask the prospect to make a decision. Now before you say, “Oh, I don’t have that problem&#8230;” you may want to read on. Below are three ways of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Failing to Ask For the Sale</strong><br />
A problem that many sales people have is that they do not properly ask for the order. They do not clearly ask the prospect <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/are-you-really-asking-for-the-order.html"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4428" title="Yes or No" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Yes-or-No-Jeroen-van-Oostrom-300x198.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="198" /></a>to make a decision.</p>
<p>Now before you say, “Oh, I don’t have that problem&#8230;” you may want to read on.</p>
<p>Below are three ways of NOT asking for the sale, followed by three ways of really <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/a-powerful-way-to-close-the-husband-and-wife-team.html" target="_blank">asking for the sale</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Three Ways of NOT Asking For The Sale</strong></p>
<p><strong>#1. Wait For The Prospect To Make the First Move</strong><br />
One of the most popular closes, (or should I say anti-closes), is when the sales person presents the offer and waits for the prospect to say something. The sales person waits, hoping the prospect will say, “Ok! Give me a pen, where do I sign?” which usually does not happen.</p>
<p><strong>Sales Person</strong><br />
“So Steve, the whole thing looks like this: We have the two dozen cases of the extra-wide widgets, two cases of the medium, and one case of the small. The whole thing comes to only £2,844, plus shipping.”</p>
<p>Silence.</p>
<p><em>Sales Person looks up at prospect, smiles, and then looks back down at order.</em></p>
<p>Silence.</p>
<p>I’m sorry my friends, but this is not asking for the order.</p>
<p><strong>#2. The, “So What Do You Think?” Close</strong><br />
Sales people terrified to ask for the sale, often use this. Since they appear to be asking a closing question, the sales person feels as if he or she accomplishes something, without directly asking for the order and thereby avoiding the risk of direct rejection. The sales person does indeed accomplish something with this close&#8230;they make the whole <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/never-ask-this-question-while-closing-the-sale.html" target="_blank">situation much worse</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Sales Person:</strong> “Finally, Sarah, we will deliver, install and test the software. The total comes to £3,400 for the first year and then £425 per year in maintenance fees. So what do you think?”</p>
<p>First, asking the prospect what they think, is not asking them to buy. However, what is worse is that turning to logical thinking is the last thing you want the prospect to do at that point. People make buying decisions based primarily on emotion. They then back up those decisions with the logical thinking.</p>
<p>By asking the prospect what they think, you are invoking the wrong part of the prospect’s brain and you still have not asked him or her to make a decision.</p>
<p>Is it any wonder why the prospect eventually responds by telling you they want to <strong>THINK</strong> about it? You just asked them what they <em><strong>think</strong></em>!</p>
<p><strong>#3. The Incentive Close</strong><br />
Another way that sales people can ask for the sale without clearly asking for the sale is to use some incentive in an effort to stimulate the prospect to action.</p>
<p>“So Steve, the whole thing looks like this: We have the two dozen cases of the extra-wide widgets, two cases of the medium, and one case of the small. The whole thing comes to only £2,844, plus shipping.”</p>
<p>“However Steve, if you place an order with me today, not only will we pick up the shipping costs, but we will give you an additional box of the small widgets&#8230;absolutely FREE!”</p>
<p>Silence.</p>
<p>You cannot wait for the prospect to snatch the contract out of your hand and close himself!</p>
<p>Posting Dec 28th, 2011:</p>
<p><strong>Three Ways Of Asking For the Sale</strong></p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat</p>
<p>Bestselling Author, Sales Authority &amp; Speaker On Modern Day Selling Methods </p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p>(Image by Jeroen van Oostrom)</p>
<p>Have you downloaded my latest report<strong> “The Sales Person’s Crisis”? </strong>Over 10,000 sales pros have.</p>
<p><strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why you’re very existence as a sales person is in doubt…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.salescrisis.com/"><img title="Sales Persons Crisis" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Sales-Persons-Crisis8.jpg" alt="" width="197" height="254" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>3 Critical Reasons Why You Should NEVER Reveal The Price Until You&#8217;ve Built Up The Value</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-critical-reasons-why-you-should-never-reveal-price-until-you-have-built-value.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-critical-reasons-why-you-should-never-reveal-price-until-you-have-built-value.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Consultative Selling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Process]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[add value before selling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[building value]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[increase perceived value]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[price versus value]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4399</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You know the age-old Golden Rule—“Do not reveal the price until the end.” Even if you are new to sales, management has told you that you have to wait until the closing stages before you tell the prospect the price. However, does such a rule or concept still have merit, especially in dealing with today’s [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>You know the age-old Golden Rule—“Do not reveal the price until the end.” Even if you are new to sales, management has told you that you have to wait until the closing stages before you tell the prospect the price.<a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-critical-reasons-why-you-should-never-reveal-price-until-you-have-built-value.html"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4415" title="Building Value" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Building-value-Franz-Pfluegl-199x300.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>However, does such a rule or concept still have merit, especially in dealing with today’s modern and educated buyer? Since today’s prospect has instant access to a ton of information about what you sell before you even show up, and they are so short on time; does it still make sense to hold out on the price, even if the <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-powerful-ways-to-handle-the-prospect-who-demands-price-before-presentation.html" target="_blank">prospect is demanding to know</a>?</p>
<p>In a word&#8230;<strong>YES!!</strong> Below are three critical reasons why you should <strong><em>still</em></strong> never reveal the price until you have <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-ways-to-increase-perceived-value-during-the-sales-interaction.html" target="_blank">built significant value</a>.</p>
<p><strong>#1. Price is Irrelevant Until You Have Established the Value</strong><br />
For your product or service to have any value to the prospect, the prospect must have a NEED for that product or service. Before you can establish a need, there must be a solution. Before there can be a solution, you must unearth a problem. The significance of the problem for which the product is a solution, determines its value. Until there is such a value, the price is meaningless. The following analogy, though absurdly fictitious, will help demonstrate the point.</p>
<p>If I came to sell you a gigantic inflatable chair and I told you that the price for this huge, pink blow-up chair is £600, would you buy it? Would you consider it for a discounted price of only £350? You would have to think that such a child’s toy is not worth more than £10.</p>
<p>However, what if I informed you that the local reservoir dam just collapsed, the equivalent of a small tsunami is on the way, and in a few minutes, the entire town is going to be 20 feet under water. Now if I asked £10,000 for that same chair, you would consider it a bargain.</p>
<p>The price is irrelevant until you have established value.</p>
<p><strong>#2. The Prospect’s Ability to Listen Disappears After They Hear the Price</strong><br />
The moment you reveal the price, the prospect makes a buying decision. On hearing the price, the prospect feels they have all of the information they need, and makes a mental decision (usually negative), and that’s it. The prospect now has a closed-mind, and deems any additional information unnecessary. It becomes near impossible to build value after you have revealed the price.</p>
<p><strong>#3. Price Before Value Creates a False “Price vs. Value” Perception</strong><br />
The sale takes place when, to the prospect, the value exceeds the price. This is not about money. It is about perception and expectations in the prospect’s mind that determine how they feel about the offer. It is about emotion. When you quote a price before establishing value, it creates the perception of a price that far outweighs the value. No matter how you try to build value after revealing the price, you cannot change that feeling, because you cannot, (significantly or justifiably), change <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-ways-not-to-handle-the-prospect-who-is-shocked-by-your-price.html" target="_blank">the price</a>.</p>
<p>Conversely, if you build the value before price, in the prospect’s mind that price will be greater than the value. If you have done a reasonable job building value, then when you finally reveal the price, it should be but a fraction of the established value. Therefore, the prospect perceives the price to be far less than excepted and thus a proper price vs. value perception results.</p>
<p>And how exactly should you respond to the prospect who asks you for the price upfront?</p>
<p>Here&#8217;s how:</p>
<p>&#8220;James, there are a lot of options and variables that we need to take into consideration before I can give you an accurate figure. Is it ok if I ask you a couple of questions to get some further information so I know which one of our products/service would be the right one for you?&#8221;</p>
<p>A lot has changed when it comes to dealing with today’s modern buyer. However, holding on to that price until after you have built the value, is one concept that <strong>must</strong> stay the same.</p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat<br />
Bestselling Author, Sales Authority &amp; Speaker On Modern Day Selling Methods </p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p>Have you downloaded my latest report<strong> “The Sales Person’s Crisis”? </strong>Over 10,000 sales pros have.</p>
<p><strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why you’re very existence as a sales person is in doubt…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.salescrisis.com/"><img title="Sales Persons Crisis" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Sales-Persons-Crisis8.jpg" alt="" width="197" height="254" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Sales Summit 2011 &#8211; Where Straight Talking, Bare-Knuckle Negotiating, Magic And Mystery Stole The Show</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/sales-summit-2011-where-straight-talking-bare-knuckle-negotiating-magic-and-mystery-stole-the-show.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/sales-summit-2011-where-straight-talking-bare-knuckle-negotiating-magic-and-mystery-stole-the-show.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:08:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Communication Skills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eselling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MTD Water Cooler]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Negotiation Skills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Process]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Something Different]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[testimonials]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2011 Sales Summit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bare Knuckle Negotiating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[engage with key decision makers online]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[highlights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[influencing buyers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mark Williams]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mind-Bending Magic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MTD Sales Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[negotiating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[network]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prospect]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales processes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sales strategies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sean mcpheat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Simon Hazeldine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[social media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Straight Talking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the internet]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=4220</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Hi all, It’s Louise here again, filling you in on the latest news from the MTD HQ. November has been a very busy month for Sean and the team as we held our first ever Sales Summit recently! MTD’s MD Sean McPheat has had many successful experiences keynoting at business events and conferences across the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hi all,</p>
<p>It’s Louise here again, filling you in on the latest news from the MTD HQ. November has been a very busy month for Sean and the team as we held our first ever Sales Summit recently!</p>
<p>MTD’s MD Sean McPheat has had many successful experiences keynoting at business events and conferences across the country, and he thought it was about time MTD had our very own sales event…and what an event it was!</p>
<p>Our 2011 Sales Summit was held on Thursday 17<sup>th</sup> November in Heathrow, and with over 100 UK and international sales professionals in attendance it certainly was a packed day.  </p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4222" title="Sean McPheat" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/DSC_0071-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a>The Summit played host to 3 fantastic speakers who presented four must-see sessions on all manner of topics, from prospecting, networking and building value during a sales interaction, right up to influencing, negotiating and communicating with potential customers.</p>
<p>Sean kicked off the day with his first session on “The Ultimate Sales Audit”, where he helped guests to thoroughly rip their sales approach to pieces and really analyse the way that they currently sell. Sean encouraged his guests to make the most of their sales interactions and gave great direction on how to pre-sell their products.</p>
<p>The second session of the day was taken by international public speaker Simon Hazeldine, who had our guests rolling with laughter during his fantastic session on “Bare Knuckle Negotiating”. As <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4232" title="Mark Williams, Sean McPheat and Simon Hazeldine" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/DSC_1098-300x215.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="215" /></a>an ex-bouncer from a former life, Simon had plenty of real-life experiences to share with our guests as he took our delegates through the negotiation process – sharing with them the strategies, tricks and tactics they need to survive and thrive when negotiating with a client.</p>
<p>Following a networking lunch in the beautiful atrium of the Radisson Edwardian Hotel, guests took their seats once again as Sean McPheat returned to the stage to present his much sought-after session on eselling®. Sean is the creator of the alternative sales approach known as eselling®, which helps businesses to prospect and sell online through the use of social media and other internet based services. Guests, of course, were very keen to see this session in particular, as this is fast becoming one of the biggest successes of Sean’s recent accomplishments.  </p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4234" title="Sean McPheat" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/DSC_0321-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a>During this session Sean showed his guests how they can use the internet to network with key decision makers, listen for leads, prospect online and position themselves as an industry expert.</p>
<p>One of the main focuses of the eselling® approach is to teach sales professionals how to use social media within their business, and to gain a real and substantial return on their investment – so Sean treated his guests to a 20 minute LinkedIn video tutorial, in which he gave guests a guided tour of the benefits of using LinkedIn as a business tool and showed them how they can create valuable business leads via this medium.  </p>
<p>The day was capped off nicely by a very entertaining session from Sean’s number one Sales Trainer Mark Williams. Mark presented a session on The New ROI, in which he showed guests how to get a return on influence with their clients. Mark <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4239" title="The Human Table" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/DSC_0376-300x194.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="194" /></a>taught guests how to better understand and communicate with their clients, how to get clients on their side and how to influence people on a subconscious level.</p>
<p>In a final flurry of magic and mystery Mark even turned four grown men into a human table which went down a storm with the attendees!</p>
<p>Following the event, both Sean and the team have received some brilliant feedback from our guest, with many commenting that they are very much looking forward to next year’s Summit. Here’s what a few of our attendees have said about the Sales Summit:</p>
<p><strong><em>&#8220;Sean delivers an excellent approach to selling that has helped me tremendously with my sales techniques. The conference he set up was great and I would recommend attending it to expand your abilities as a salesman.&#8221;</em></strong> – Andy Naisbitt, Business Development Manager at Gen3 Kinematics</p>
<p><strong><em><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4241" title="Sales Summit" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/DSC_0013-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a>&#8220;Sean is an inspiring and well prepared presenter. His ideas on today&#8217;s buyer are clearly well researched and his modern day sales concepts are backed up with practical examples and his own living proof that they work &#8211; Sean &#8220;walks his talk&#8221;. An expert in his field, Sean is also down to earth, personable and appreciative of his audience.&#8221; </em></strong>- Stephanie Keller, Sales Coach and Consultant at S2 Strategic Skills</p>
<p><strong><em>“A fantastic and informative Sales Summit day, full of brand new content. I have learned more than in any other course I have attended in the past, the event was well organised and the speakers were amazing. I really look forward to attending some other courses with MTD Sales Training and thank you very much for your on-going email support which I highly appreciate and respect.” </em></strong>Kubilay Tunc, The Cumberland Hotel</p>
<p>Both Sean and the team have been thrilled with the feedback we’ve received from the event and we are now looking forward to the 2012 Sales Summit – bring it on!</p>
<p>Happy Selling!</p>
<p>Louise Denny</p>
<p>Marketing Manager </p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p>Have you downloaded my latest report<strong> “The Sales Person’s Crisis”? </strong>Over 10,000 sales pros have.</p>
<p><strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why you’re very existence as a sales person is in doubt…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.salescrisis.com/"><img title="Sales Persons Crisis" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Sales-Persons-Crisis8.jpg" alt="" width="197" height="254" /></a></p>
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		<title>How To Handle The Prospect Who Is Afraid Of EVERYTHING</title>
		<link>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/how-to-handle-the-prospect-who-is-afraid-of-everything.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/how-to-handle-the-prospect-who-is-afraid-of-everything.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sean McPheat</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prospecting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Interactions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sales Mindset]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[paranoid prospect]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prospect mindset]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recognising prospects traits]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/?p=3897</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How do you handle the prospect that is afraid of everything and everybody?  You know the person I’m talking about.  That prospect who is so paranoid, you wonder how they got the job and how you set the appointment.  First, I’ll offer some tips to help you better recognise the Paranoid Prospect (PP), followed by [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-4001" title="paranoid 3" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/paranoid-3-216x300.jpg" alt="" width="212" height="246" />How do you handle the <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/a-quick-look-into-prospecting-using-linkedin.html" target="_blank">prospect </a>that is afraid of everything and everybody?  You know the person I’m talking about.  That prospect who is so paranoid, you wonder how they got the job and how you set the appointment. </p>
<p>First, I’ll offer some tips to help you better recognise the Paranoid Prospect (PP), followed by three effective ways to handle them.</p>
<p><strong>Three <a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/3-effective-ways-to-sell-to-the-prospect-who-knows-everything.html" target="_blank">Traits </a>of the Paranoid Prospect</strong></p>
<p><strong>1. The PP is usually very pessimistic and will see something negative in almost everything.  </strong></p>
<p>Sales Person:        “It’s a beautiful day!”  <br />
PP:                         “Yeah, but that usually means thunderstorms are on the way.”</p>
<p><strong> 2. The PP will usually want proof of statements that you make and ask for guarantees.</strong></p>
<p><strong> 3. The PP will have examples (factual or not) of bad experiences with your competitors or in your industry.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Three Tips to Handle the Paranoid Prospect</strong></p>
<p><strong>1. Do not linger long on questions, especially offensive ones.</strong> The PP will often offer questions that are actually accusations, and focus on them until they get the answers they want.  Do not get into long discussions on those issues.  Answer the question and move on.  Do not try to justify answers or defend accusations that have no merit.</p>
<p><strong>2. Do not bash the competition.</strong>  The PP will often try to bait you into taking sides against your competition.  Understand that once you agree and validate that there is <em>anyone</em> in your industry that justifies the PP’s fears, you are finished as well.</p>
<p><strong>3. Do not try to alleviate unwarranted phobias</strong>.  If the PP turns to unproven, phantom and even ridiculous hypothetical situations; do not fall into the trap of trying to explain how and why those things are of no consequence.  Do not give such issues credibility by acknowledging them.</p>
<p>Most of the PPs fears, while they seem to focus on many different areas, are really about making a decision.  Don’t be distracted with irrelevant issues.  Stick to your sales process and help the fearful prospect see things more clearly. </p>
<p>Happy Selling,</p>
<p>Sean</p>
<p>Sean McPheat<br />
Bestselling Author, Sales Authority &amp; Speaker On Modern Day Selling Methods </p>
<p><a href="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/" target="_blank">MTD Sales Training</a></p>
<p>Have you downloaded my latest report<strong> “The Sales Person’s Crisis”? </strong>Over 10,000 sales pros have.</p>
<p><strong>Click on the image below </strong>to find out why you’re very existence as a sales person is in doubt…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.salescrisis.com/"><img title="Sales Persons Crisis" src="http://www.mtdsalestraining.com/mtdblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Sales-Persons-Crisis8.jpg" alt="" width="197" height="254" /></a></p>
<p><strong><br />
</strong></p>
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