Reputation management and personal brand development begin with good first impressions. But an overlooked fact is that most try so hard to please, they are not honest about what they can and cannot do. The improved approach is to convey limits upfront in terms of capabilities. The scope may refer to both time allotment and expertise.
Abe Lincoln’s words come to mind, “You can’t please all of the people all of the time.” Our health comes first, and it is the only way to maintain our strength so that we may serve others well. The better solution is to lay out the parameters for everyone to know what they may expect.
Just as with a sales call, it is best to confirm all of the requirements for working together to be certain everyone is in agreement. Now, the first impression is of potential leadership along with admiration for integrity. The upfront disclaimer also applies to job interviews. By answering questions truthfully, one is far more likely to be hired.
Without an upfront agreement, frustration and overwhelm take hold. The next step to the downward spiral is that quitting will quickly come to mind. With an understanding in place, as you reach a time limit or requests are out of bounds, it is easy to remind those involved of your initial arrangement.
Admitting to what you can and cannot do is a bold step, and not everyone is comfortable with taking it. In particular, when it comes to getting the needed job or the sale, no one wants to put any negative vibes in the atmosphere. However, people can detect the lack of honesty. For the intuitive, they can hear and see what is not being said. Be advised that the best sales strategy of all is to be upfront with your parameters of what you may and may not put into action.
Consider these questions:
- Is it time to rethink the strategy for commitment?
- Have clients declined further interaction?
- How are your first impressions transforming into future work?
As offers come and go, compare and contrast the ones that worked best versus those that prove to be a poor experience. Use these occasions as lessons to improve upon future opportunities. Less time will be wasted and better results will be enjoyed.
Sales Tips
- Establish criteria for accepting offers.
- Be honest with yourself about what you are able to do well.
- Communicate to others your expertise and time available to help.
- Avoid over-extending on any commitment.
- Preserve your reputation for delivering fine work.
- Take care of yourself first in order to serve others well.
- Continually review co-hosted projects to see which perform the best.
- Leverage the ventures that you enjoy the most plus had the better results.
- Strive for doing excellent work in a time efficient manner.
- Celebrate Success!
Following these guidelines will lead you to the Smooth Sale!
