Ask Questions vs. Just Answer Them

When I roleplay/practice with salespeople and play the part of the salesperson as a way of demonstrating the behavior I want them to follow, I am very conscious of my intention and behavior in the interaction: I am focused on what they are saying, use voice and body match, listen deeply and reframe their words and recreate their emotion, and ask more questions in response to what they say. These are all teachable actions and they all require repeated practice.

The last one - ask more questions in response to what they say - is a critical skill to adopt and repeat. When I observe salespeople in role play or on the floor, I see that they TELL the customer something in response to what they say instead of telling and asking another question.

For example:

Customer: “Is this solid wood?”

Salesperson: “Yes it is.” ADD" Can you tell me what’s important to you about solid wood?”

I also find this step is lacking when discussing money. Example:

Customer: “Is $1500 the price for this sofa?”

Salesperson: “Yes.” ADD: “Will that price work for you?”

Know what you need to know and ask until you get it…including Asking for the Sale.

Now, go sell something.

oxo,

Jody