Before I was the Sassy Assassin of SEO, I grew up thinking “no” was a bad word. It was a word for failure, not feedback. It was a word of limitation not freedom. I don’t feel the same anymore…
Early in my sales career, I realised that “No” was not the worst word to hear when making calls or trying to close business. At least when I received a “No”, I didn’t spend anymore time or energy trying to woo someone who didn’t want to be wooed.
It was slow torture when people didn’t get back to me, or led me to believe they wanted my services…skipping along hoping and wishing and dreaming about the super-duper commissions I was going to receive. Hah! One of my colleagues used to say “all buyers are liars.” Though harsh, it reminded me I had to keep selling and servicing until the paperwork was submitted. It wasn’t a bad practice because I learned how important it was to treat customers well.
On the other hand, I never wanted to say no to anyone either. If someone asked for help, I usually said yes – I leapt before I looked. This didn’t usually end well. I felt bullied to do something that wasn’t comfortable and began to resent the relationship. I didn’t give my best work — not my style.
Have I learned my lesson? Most of the time. I did say “no” to a prospect a few weeks ago. He asked me to use some marketing practices that don’t align with my business values. Even though it would have been a nice piece of business, I said I wasn’t the best fit and I knew he would find success with any number of providers. I wished him well and moved on to work with the lovely clients I have that we see eye to eye on their marketing programs.
In summary, the Sassy Assassin says…
1 – Receiving a “no” & knowing someone isn’t interested in your services at the moment helps me focus on who may want my services. Cut the bait & look for new fish.
2 – Saying “no” to a potential customer who isn’t a good fit saves me from grief-filled projects. I could have saved a few relationships (personal & professional) if I just said I couldn’t help. I knew what they wanted wasn’t what I could (or want) to deliver. By freeing up my time from futile situation, I have time to nurture customers, prospects & relationships that are mutually beneficial & enjoyable.
3 – If you are a buyer & you know you don’t want what someone is offering, just say “no thank you” so everyone can move on to more fruitful pastures.
For more secrets, visit http://SassyAssassin.com
‘Til next time, keep it simple & keep it sassy!