
Marketing
The Fear of Rejection and Timeby Tim Connor
Why is the fear of rejection (an attitude) one of the critical time wasters in sales? Why do people let this fear negatively influence their behavior? Here are a few thoughts to consider.
Not everyone you try to sell to will want to buy from you.
Expecting everyone you meet to like or accept you is to live in fantasy-land.
If you don't ask for anything, something it is unlikely you will ever get it.
The fear of rejection prevents you from asking probing questions, asking for an appointment, asking for the order.
The fear of rejection is one of the major causes of failure in all areas of life, not just sales.
The fear of rejection is an attitude issue and can only be overcome by strengthening other attitudes such as confidence, self-belief, patience, trust, and your self-image.
The fear of rejection is not a skill issue and can't be overcome with the latest self-help technique or fad that forces you to behave in ways that are not comfortable for you.
The fear of rejection is a symptom of a need for acceptance, approval or validation.
The fear of rejection sends a loud non-verbal message to other people that you lack confidence or belief in yourself, your product or service and/or your ability to help them or solve their problems.
Does the fear of rejection ever prevent you from:
Picking up the phone and making that next call?
Asking for the business?
Asking difficult probing questions?
Asking for referrals?
Asking for a bigger order?
Asking for a letter of testimony?
Asking for anything you want?
Asking for more responsibility in your position or a raise?
Following up on a customer who has had a problem?
Asking for an appointment with an important person?
Asking for a cash deposit?
Asking for a long-term contract?
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Tim Connor, CSP, is a professional speaker and expert in the fields of management, sales, team building, and customer service. He's the author of 19 books and can be reached at 704-895-1230, speaker@bellsouth.net or www.timconnor.com.