Thank You, Mr. Prospect

Professional selling is a high rejection occupation. Where else can you go to work with the assurance that you’ll be turned down fifteen times daily? Who else (other than lawyers) are the brunt of jokes and questionable ethics?

Successful salespeople know that these things come with the territory. The key is not to take them personally and realize that “if it doesn't kill us, it will make us stronger.’

So in light of the upcoming holiday, here is a list of thank you items that I’ve come across over the years. 

…FOR every turn-down which made me stronger even though at the time I thought it was the end of my career. It taught me to move on and find someone who was interested. 

…FOR every back out which left me disappointed and discouraged…and a special apology for all the wicked thoughts that went through my mind at the time. 

…FOR not showing up for a Monday morning appointment that had been confirmed, and one which I prepared for and worried about all weekend…you taught me how to relax and enjoy my own quality time with family & friends…seven days a week. 

…FOR every “I want to think it over” I took…until I became strong enough to learn how to deal with a stall which was really a ‘no’. 

…FOR every other stall and objection you brought up…you made me a better sales person by forcing me to use my knowledge and training in order to find a response. 

…FOR teaching me that money is a conceptual and not a technical thing, and that it was a good thing to establish what your real problems were, the implications of those issues and what your conviction was to change them. 

…FOR every receptionist and assistant you trained to fend me off in the reception room and on the phone…it made me realize they are professionals as well and needed to be understood and communicated with.

…FOR every time you misled me and didn't give me the straight answers…that only made me realize that’s why some salespeople have earned the reputation they have. I believe only full disclosure selling will create a better customer.

…FOR every time I had to defend the business of selling which eventually convinced me even more that selling was a worthwhile, legitimate and satisfying profession…in spite of what some may say. I also know that everyone is selling, even you. 

…AND a final thank you, sir, for putting up with my ineptness, my “not-OKness,” my fears, my worries, my self-doubt, my introversion, and all the other self-limitations I placed upon myself…thank you for increasing my resolve …and helping me become the professional I am today. Thank you for helping get rid of my ‘head trash’ so I can do my job better. 

Wishing you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving. May the joy of the holidays extend to you and your family now and throughout the coming year.