The Answer Is Always NO Unless You Ask

The Answer Is Always NO Unless You Ask
Asking for the order seems like such a simple notion, so
why do so many salespeople have difficulty with it? One of
my favorite mottos is "if you don't ask, you don't get." It
is a very clear, concise and true statement of faith. The
simple truth is, the answer is usually "no" unless you ask,
and ask you must if you expect success.

In preparation for the publication of my latest book,
Superior Selling Skills Mastery, I contacted several
noteworthy and accomplished authors and speakers in the
selling field, seeking their testimonials for my work. I
chose people of extraordinary talent, wonderful success,
superior notoriety and stellar reputation. Not
surprisingly, three people have responded so far, one of
which is still reading but promised a glowing testimonial.

"Not surprisingly?" Yes. I expected to hear from these
leaders in our field. I believe that "the cream rises to
the top" and one prominent reason industry leaders often
are positioned where they are because they are interested
in others. They are approachable, however you must be
willing to ask for their assistance. You can read their
testimonials on my blog.

I asked. They responded. If I would not have asked, it is
unlikely that I would have received their testimonials.
After all, how could they have known? Their recommendation
and testimonial are both a valuable and necessary component
of my marketing plan, a component I would surely miss if I
had not asked.

Asking is critical, no matter your industry, field or
circumstances. Whether it is help you seek, a review of
your progress, an assessment of your skills, an opinion or
an order that you are seeking from a customer, you must ask
for it. Asking is necessary. Asking is expected.

Asking completes the selling process. It is closing the
sale. Without it, all that has previously transpired means
little, a mere transference of information. Giving away
information and polite conversation are not bad things, but
they will not pay your bills. Without the close,
conversation is all you have. You must close the selling
process; you must ask for the order.

Your customers expect you to close. They expect you to ask
for their business. Many will not simply offer it to you
because you are nice. Ask. Someone else will be asking for
their business if you neglect to. Do not be hesitant. Ask
confidently. Ask expectantly and receive.

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Daniel Sitter, author of both Learning For Profit and
Superior Selling Skills Mastery, has garnered extensive
experience in sales, training, marketing and personal
development spanning a successful 25 year career.
Experience his blog at http://www.idea-sellers.com