There is definately a learning curve in the Southwestern program. Unfortunately, it is week four and I am still at the begining of the ride. I have had seven customers so far this week, which is probably still less than the lowest number of customers in one day that any student manager in my org has gotten this week. (I hope that was somewhat clear.)
Here are the things that need to happen for me to continue to ascend the learning curve --
I haven't learned my complete sales talk yet.
I am still not very assumptive at all. I don't walk into a house feeling like the people will buy the books I am about to show them.
I still don't get 12 sit-downs in a day, which is unfortunate, because I usually get a customer for every two to three sit-downs I get. That is also true for everyone else as well.
I am barely doing the 'proper' hours now, and I am still being horribly inefficient after dark, which is principally due to the fact that most homes in my rural area have their lights out shortly after dark.
My attitude is more balanced than positive. It needs to be positive they say for me to do well, but I am stuck in a non-negative realism. I know that I will find a few buyers every day, because I work the area quickly and tight, but I also know that I won't persuade anyone into buying with my underdeveloped sales skills.
Here are some things I am improving lately --
I am just now begining to smile at every door. For some reason I'd just wear whatever face that matched my inner attitude when I knocked on the door instead of wearing an enthusiastic, positive smile. Silly me.
I am just now begining to speak more naturally and less like a kid trying to recite a poorly memorized script.
I am confident when talking to people.
I have noticed that I furrow my eyebrows when I am speaking and the sun is in my eyes. This looks incredibly weird with a big grin. I am making adjustments concerning this issue, but still haven't figured it out completely.
I have great eye contact -- most of the time.
I knock loudly and clearly and place the bag and my person in the right spots in front of the door. :)
Posted by David at June 2, 2004 11:55 PMso u got good eye contact eh?
i always say u should definately smile more plus with those dimples u got u can definately get customers.. also just be yourself try not to pretend to be something ur not.. and if the phony stript they gave u sounds bad then just say something else that will tell the ppl why u are at their front door...
dont wrry u got awesome qualities... u will be fine!
The confidence one is big for selling things. I'm glad that you are realizing and making all of these adjustments to improve your techniques. Don't worry that the student managers sell more in one day than you do the whole week (i think that's what you said). Just do your best and limit the amount of time that you 'waste' or would feel guilty about later.
I love ya kiddo
Posted by: Jessica at June 5, 2004 08:26 PM