How passion and determination made a sale even when I was determined not to buy.
This weeks article is a true story that will help many of you as you approach sales in your business.
The other day, a young man knocked on the door. Usually I don’t answer, but for some reason I did. I felt compelled to answer. The first thing I said to him is that I wasn’t going to talk with him because there had been too many scammers in the neighborhood falsely representing companies and taking people’s money.
How many times do we shut down when someone says no right off the bat?
This young man, let’s call him Josh, was determined and passionate about the environment and his cause, “Clean Water Action”. He immediately said that this was different and wanted me to quick look at it. He was smart because I know he saw my Prius in the driveway and knew I had a passion for the environment also.
He caught my interest. He was quick and to the point. He used empowering language. Instead of saying we are fighting this issue, he corrected himself and stated, we are encouraging the politicians to see something different.
He hooked me again. I don’t buy into victimhood or blaming or fighting anything, especially for the environment.
I signed his petition because he sold me on the importance of clean water. He then asked politely for a donation, stating that he was expecting a big donation. Letting me know what others have paid and how much they found it worth.
I went upstairs and didn’t write the check to the amount he recommended, however, it was way more than I had intended to write.
To top it off, he showed even more determination and asked if I would write a letter to our senator. He pulled out a pen and paper, and I wrote it right there. He was prepared, and determined.
The moral of this story is layered deeply. First, Josh is passionate and determined in his belief of helping the environment and he doesn’t let anything stop that. Why did I open the door in the first place? I believe I sensed his passion and determination. There is an unseen power there. He also is polite and listened to my concerns. He clearly stated what he was looking for. He was dressed nicely. He expected me to write a check of an amount that I would not have thought of before. And he knew I was his ideal client based on the Prius in the driveway. He wasn’t going to miss that opportunity. (He mentioned to me later how he knew I supported the environment based on my car).
So, how many times do you let your ideal client pass you by because you missed one of these steps?
I have to say that I felt wonderful after writing that check. I love to give to organizations that are working to help our environment and our quality of life.
Someone else is looking to be happy and will write YOU a check to experience what you have to offer. All you need to do is ask, be passionate and incredibly determined.
Go for it!
