A successful sale is a rewarding experience for both the client and the sales professional. But what does it take to be successful? Although a number of elements such as building a trusting relationship and credibility contribute to making the sale, silence in selling is an especially important technique. According to psychologist Carl Rogers, silence involves giving free and undivided attention to the speaker.
Silence is powerful in any important relationship. In sales, being silent provides an opportunity for you to listen to your client; learn about their needs; and provide them with the space they need to make their decision to buy from you … over and over again. Use these three strategies to yield powerful results for you and your client:
Focus on yourself
As you prepare to meet your client, especially for the first time, find a quiet space to focus on yourself. By being silent you can calm yourself with deep breathing techniques. You can also use visualization to focus on a win-win outcome, which can provide you with more confidence to make a great first impression.
Be curious
When you are silent and in a curious state of mind you:
- Offer your full presence to your client
- Calm the many distracting thoughts that may come into your mind
- Create the space for clients to outline their challenges while you listen to their expressed and unexpressed needs
Ask the question then give them space
Asking questions is a way of exploring if what the client has outlined as the challenge is their real need. An open question that needs a thoughtful response requires enough space for the client to be comfortable. Silence in selling at this time can often feel awkward for both parties and if you can provide reassurance that the client can take the time they need you will get a less rushed, more informative answer.
Selling is a process of building a meaningful relationship with your client. They buy based on emotional needs and clients want to trust you when they talk about how to meet those needs. Silence, offered strategically and authentically, has the power to make or break the deal. Which card do you want to play?
For tips on asking great questions, check out our Pure Selling program, then contact us.
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