Good Evening, Happy Memorial Day!
I hope this finds you well-rested after the holiday weekend.
I was lucky to spend mine at the lake back in Indiana where I grew up - barbecuing, boating, and listening to my daughter yell, "Gaa-Maaaa!" and "Hey Duuuuuude" at my mom. Another fun activity - garage sales. Lindsay and I had a few good scores, including this vintage "adult trike" that will be our new grocery-getter in the city.
Of course, these simple joys that we cherish are protected daily by the sacrifices of our armed services - men and women like my father, uncle, cousins, and friends who make us all proud to be Americans. Thank you for giving us peace of mind, body, and spirit!
I feel blessed to be out every day meeting an eclectic group of people and businesses. This monthly digest reflects my journey through sharing new sales & business ideas, Chicagoland happenings, new music for your soundtrack, and other things that caught my eye along the way. I always appreciate your replies, thoughts, and ideas - as well as taking time out to enjoy it.
Sales Beat
Nothing will push away a potential client more quickly than an over-eager salesperson. You need to respect the person and get out of the way. Do what's best for the client and facilitate an open buying process. Read these great insights on that idea (and then subscribe to the blog's author, Charles Green).
The default objection that many sales people run into is, "We're already using someone else, we're good." That can be tough for even the most seasoned salesperson. These are five solid responses for the next time you hear it. Pick your favorite one or two, then paraphrase it to make it your own and natural sounding.
When I ask people how they grow their business, 8 out of 10 people tell me the same thing - word of mouth and referrals. But I rarely hear that their phone is ringing off the hook. Seth Godin points out that you have to make it safe, fun, and worthwhile for your other clients to refer you. I love that thinking. Hint - one way to make it safe is by not being over-eager (see first article!).
The default objection that many sales people run into is, "We're already using someone else, we're good." That can be tough for even the most seasoned salesperson. These are five solid responses for the next time you hear it. Pick your favorite one or two, then paraphrase it to make it your own and natural sounding.
When I ask people how they grow their business, 8 out of 10 people tell me the same thing - word of mouth and referrals. But I rarely hear that their phone is ringing off the hook. Seth Godin points out that you have to make it safe, fun, and worthwhile for your other clients to refer you. I love that thinking. Hint - one way to make it safe is by not being over-eager (see first article!).
What I'm Up To
Sales Empowerment Group and Sales University Group are fully moved into our River North offices at 6 W. Hubbard, Suite #400. No more multiple elevators and security of the Tower. Extra bonus - 20 minutes less on the commute! If you're in the neighborhood, please drop me a line and come by to say hey!
I'm having a blast with my recent client projects. I am helping with a myriad of sales initiatives - hiring reps, building out a new format for a SaaS demo, designing new pricing models, rewriting marketing campaigns, and more. The work is pushing me to continually learn, which has made the work all that more rewarding.
Sales Empowerment Group and Sales University Group are fully moved into our River North offices at 6 W. Hubbard, Suite #400. No more multiple elevators and security of the Tower. Extra bonus - 20 minutes less on the commute! If you're in the neighborhood, please drop me a line and come by to say hey!
I'm having a blast with my recent client projects. I am helping with a myriad of sales initiatives - hiring reps, building out a new format for a SaaS demo, designing new pricing models, rewriting marketing campaigns, and more. The work is pushing me to continually learn, which has made the work all that more rewarding.
Off Beat
We've all been asked the question... If you had one superpower, what would it be? How about this one... whatever word you say, you get that taste in your mouth. Well, this 'superpower' does exist (in a twisted way) in 4% of the population but is sometimes more of a curse than a blessing. Read about this man who tastes sounds. CRAZY.
Chicagoland
I'm a sucker for a good time-lapse. This artist has found some breathtaking views of our expansive, picturesque city.
However, if you're fed up with the city, here are 12 Michigan Hiking Trails to find a fresh-aired adventure. I'm picturing a Fall Colors (Tri)-cycle-trip in October.
I'm a sucker for a good time-lapse. This artist has found some breathtaking views of our expansive, picturesque city.
However, if you're fed up with the city, here are 12 Michigan Hiking Trails to find a fresh-aired adventure. I'm picturing a Fall Colors (Tri)-cycle-trip in October.
Music
While we did take Marleigh to Lollapalooza last year, I'm happy to succumb to more 'family-friendly' street festivals that the summer will offer. Here is a comprehensive list (city & suburban) festivals that will entertain kids and parents (who still like to act like kids). Here is one local kids musician we always try to catch.
While we did take Marleigh to Lollapalooza last year, I'm happy to succumb to more 'family-friendly' street festivals that the summer will offer. Here is a comprehensive list (city & suburban) festivals that will entertain kids and parents (who still like to act like kids). Here is one local kids musician we always try to catch.
Quotes
There is no such thing as "fun for the whole family." - Jerry Seinfeld (He's never been to a Chicago Street Fest!!)
Ask your child what he wants for dinner only if he's buying. Fran Lebowitz (1950 - )
Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory. - Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965)
Lack of money is no obstacle. Lack of an idea is an obstacle. - Ken Hakuta
Don't knock the weather. If it didn't change once in a while, nine out of ten people couldn't start a conversation. - Kim Hubbard (1868-1930)
I hope you enjoyed the newsletter and found something of value for yourself or someone you know. Thank you again for your remarks, recommendations, and referrals that many of you have shared.
There is no such thing as "fun for the whole family." - Jerry Seinfeld (He's never been to a Chicago Street Fest!!)
Ask your child what he wants for dinner only if he's buying. Fran Lebowitz (1950 - )
Happiness is nothing more than good health and a bad memory. - Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965)
Lack of money is no obstacle. Lack of an idea is an obstacle. - Ken Hakuta
Don't knock the weather. If it didn't change once in a while, nine out of ten people couldn't start a conversation. - Kim Hubbard (1868-1930)
I hope you enjoyed the newsletter and found something of value for yourself or someone you know. Thank you again for your remarks, recommendations, and referrals that many of you have shared.
