Independence and the Olympics in July!

Just having celebrated the 4th of July, I am always struck with the blessings we have here in this country. The choices in professions, lifestyle, free time, religious beliefs, political parties, hobbies, education options and the list goes on! So what does this have to do with sales and business development? Are you utilizing ALL of the options available in your chosen career or company; do you appreciate the freedom you have to choose your specific discipline in your company; are you taking advantage of all the education opportunities to improve your game or skill set; do you embrace each day with new resolve and passion to make the day the best it can be?

And as the Olympics approach, we get to see the world s best athletes compete in 26 sports that include 10,500 competitors from over 200 counties as they strive to be their best for this world wide event. Michael Phelps (who holds the all-time record for the most gold medals as well as overall medal count) trains for 6-8 hours per day and the average world class athlete trains 23 hours per week. Phelps will compete in his 5th Olympic games at the ripe old age of 31!.

These may be extreme examples but are you putting in enough work hours and training hours to be a world class sales professional, manager or service provider?

GO USA!!

Focus Point

62. Keep your management people in the loop.

Keeping leadership up to date on your activities gives you credibility and enables them to assist you in the sales process. Over the years, I acquired invaluable tools and insights from my sales management. Often, it takes some extra effort to copy them on important client-related activities. But it will be worth your time in terms of the outcome ($$$$).

You never know: Your manager might have just the right advice for you because he or she probably was in your shoes before becoming a sales manager. We believe in taking advantage of all resources at your disposal, and your manager is your first line of support.