4 of My Favorite (De)Motivational Sales Quotes

Those of us in the business have heard lots of sales adages and proverbs. Some are relevant and some are just obvious. Below are a few of my favorites.

Never discuss religion or politics with a client. Not only do I agree with this, but I wish more people on social media would heed this advice as well. There's nothing more awkward than finally sitting with that whale of a client and going straight into the buzzsaw of "And which church do you attend?" I attend church, but I'm not here to talk to you about my beliefs, religious or political. I just want to get down to business!

Stack 'em high and watch 'em fly. (retail) Back in my mall days, we would fill a table full of merchandise and "watch 'em fly". You've probably seen this technique at your local Wal-Mart, especially near the electronics department. Bins full of DVD's or other stuff are designed that way to get your attention.

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If it wasn't for people it would be the easiest job in the world. I mentioned this one in my book and it's as true now as it was then. People on both sides of a sale can be annoying, dishonest and generally horrible. I'm not saying all people are bad, but when it comes to deal making, and that's what a sale is, some people will do anything to "win". The best deals occur when each side gets something, but also when both sides get a little discomfort. Take your salesperson or your prospect with a grain of salt in these instances.

Networking is not working. For some bizarre reason, there are people out there that think that attending networking events, chamber after hours and helping out a civic organization are passe and a waste of time. If you're doing transactional selling, then maybe networking isn't for you. However, for most of us, relationship selling reaps bigger and more repetitive sales. And the best way to build those relationships is through constant networking.

Need a speaker for your sales meeting or workshop? Check out www.ChrisCastanes.com

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