Every seasoned sales professional faces the challenge of a sales slump. If someone claims they’ve never experienced it, they’re likely misremembering or being insincere.
Understanding a Sales Slump
A sales slump isn’t merely a dip in numbers; it’s that overwhelming period where leads diminish, prospects vanish, and it seems no strategy works.
The Traditional vs. The Unconventional Approach
Many online resources suggest returning to basic strategies. I propose an alternative: Don’t just revisit the basics; transcend them. The path?
- Rest
- Read
- Write
Embrace the Rest Weekend
Contrary to cramming your weekend with tasks, a Rest Weekend is about mental rejuvenation. Whether it’s a retreat to the lake or a quiet staycation, it’s crucial to disconnect. Turn off notifications, halt customer follow-ups, and entrust a reliable colleague to manage pressing issues. Remember, no sales crisis is so urgent it can’t wait till Monday.
The Essence of a Clear Mindset
Keep away from intoxicants. Your aim isn’t just clarity but a complete mental reset.
The Impact of Downtime
Disconnecting helps recalibrate, moving you from daily tasks to a broader sales vision. This fresh perspective can introduce innovative strategies and ideas.
Reading Beyond the Sales Manual
Expand your reading list. From biographies and business insights to human behavior studies, every book offers unique lessons. They might not always relate directly to sales, but they can reshape your approach. For instance, after reading Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking, Fast, and Slow, I extracted invaluable insights on understanding customer behavior, which enhanced my sales strategies.
The Power of Writing
Jotting down insights and strategies not only consolidates your learning but also aids in practical implementation. Penning your thoughts post-reading can result in actionable sales strategies.
Rediscovering Sales Passion
If you’ve been in sales, you’re acquainted with its basics. However, slumps often arise from a disconnection with our initial passion. A Reset Weekend serves as a refresher, realigning us with the core reasons people make purchases.
In summary, when faced with a sales slump, remember three vital steps: Rest, Read, and Write.
