We all know sales is a numbers game—yadi yadi yada! However, selling is also a mindset of analyzing and executing actions to make a sale come to fruition. It sounds simple, but it’s more complex than you might think. So, what are the reasons why you fail in sales?
The primary purpose of this article is to provide insights for those who struggle to get on the leaderboard or are inconsistent with their numbers. To that end, I’ve highlighted some key problems (though there are many) that need addressing to become a better sales version of yourself. These insights are based on my experience and observations of highly successful salespeople. After all, no matter how hard we work or how driven we are, efficiency is key.
Here are five key reasons why you may be struggling in sales—or, perhaps more importantly, why you may need to revisit skills you’ve forgotten you had.
1. Not Authentic
You have less than one minute to prove your authenticity before your audience judges you. Unfortunately, this is how our world works, and it’s your only opportunity to win or lose your audience. Ask yourself: are you confident enough to be transparent upfront? Remember, be authentic, build trust, and your clients will follow.
2. Lack of Confidence
Your body language, stage presence, and even tone of voice may lack confidence. However, when you’re in the moment and feel the passion in your bones, you’ll naturally exude confidence. In fact, your voice should speak from your soul and not from your ego. Ask yourself: do you truly believe in the products you are selling, even if others might doubt you?
3. Listening Skills
Let’s be honest: how practical are your listening skills? Can you understand a client’s needs within 2–3 minutes without interrupting? Be honest with yourself. Your mind should paint the picture as they speak, and your heart should create the solution they need. Ultimately, the accuracy of your immediate response will validate your credibility. So, listen before you start preaching.
4. Service to Others
Besides selling, how are you of service to others in your daily life? Yes, you read that right! When you are standing in your true power and authenticity, being yourself naturally gives off the vibes of someone who serves others in everything they do—even without realizing it. People gravitate toward those who provide genuine service rather than pushy salespeople. It takes time to be natural; faking service doesn’t work.
5. Too Self-Centered
This is a common struggle, and I’m addressing it again! Sure, it’s okay to be confident, but don’t think for a second that an inflated ego will take you to the finish line. Remember, 99% of consumers will buy from someone they like, trust, and respect—someone who provides service for their benefit, not their own. Ask yourself: would you hire yourself?
Final Thoughts
The struggle is real! Honestly, I could go on for days about this topic. Nevertheless, having these five qualities will help you become a more respected salesperson—one that we all want to hire!
In truth, the top salespeople were either born this way or realized they were going downhill and needed a change. What’s impressive is how effortlessly their manner does all the selling for them. Of course, they know their products, they have a system in place that works, and they naturally do all the right things a salesperson should do. So, what’s the difference? It’s how they capture and close deals like no one else. Simply put, they’re magnetic when providing services for people, not for themselves. Go ahead—try it and see what happens.
From my experience, I am forever blessed to be surrounded by highly successful salespeople whom I constantly study! HA! All of the above—never stop working on your craft. Continuously keep sharpening yourself every day because your competition is doing the same. Ultimately, everyone is a salesperson, but it takes a special kind of person to be a Top Dog. Believe me, YOU ARE TOP DOG QUALITY—BELIEVE THAT!!
If you’ve made it this far and checked off all five traits above, you are heading in the right direction. I wish you the very best of luck, with lots of hugs and fortune!
Happy Selling!
