“If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost. That’s where they should be. Now, put the foundations under them.”    ‐Henry David Thoreau

The best salesman I know is my dog, Woody. He’s a two year old Labradoodle, and I think he’s the best dog ever. He’s got a great sense of humor; at least that’s how it seems to me. He’s eternally optimistic, unfailingly persistent, creative in his approach, and without guile or pretense. Although he never resorts to manipulation or intimidation, he somehow manages to convey what he wants and sell me on the idea of giving it to him. When I wake up in the morning, he’s sitting by my side, looking at me with positive expectation mixed with infinite patience. His smile and good‐morning kisses melt my heart before I even get out of bed. He sits quietly by as I do my morning exercises, go to the bathroom, splash my face with water, and get dressed. Then, suddenly he’s animated. He leaps and romps happily, following me down the stairs and out the front door.

I think we could all learn something from Woody. We could be more patient, knowing that good things come to those who wait. We could be more persistent, understanding that repetition often produces results as long as we maintain the right attitude and don’t become impatient or pushy. We could be more forthcoming about what we want, not resorting to sneaky tactics to convince others to give us our way. And we could learn to give before we receive, showering our prospects with love and appreciation before they buy our product or service…just because it feels good to do it.

Woody’s not pushy, he’s not sneaky, he’s not brooding. Yet, somehow he gets his way. And he gets it often. Think about that as it applies to your sales abilities. What kind of a person is your prospect meeting? Are you kind, concerned, playful, fun, joyful? Are you open and honest? Are you irresistible; because, if you are irresistible, they’ll find it impossible to resist doing business with you…providing you have something they want or need.

Take a cue from Woody this week, and see how your sales (and life) improve!

PS. THE ABOVE IS AN EXCERPT FROM MY BOOK, INNER SELLING. IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN READING THE WHOLE THING, VISIT https://stevetaubman.com/the-magic-of-inner-selling-audiobook/#

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