Are You a Tool?

“A politician divides mankind into two classes; tools and enemies.”

- Friedrich Nietzsche

Which one are you, tool or enemy? Better yet, when we think about the sales relationship which one is your customer? 

When we’re under stress from customer demands it’s easy to lose perspective and begin to think of them as an enemy. Sometimes we inadvertently add a snarky tone to an email or begin answering the phone with a sharpness that wasn’t there before. Remember - we are the experts. They are coming to us because we’re the ones who can help them reach their goals, and we’re damn good at what we do. Bonus tip: Just like us, they also have someone to answer to so the heat we may feel isn’t necessarily coming from the customer. They might just be the unfortunate messenger. 

Now, I really don’t want anyone going into their next customer meeting calling them a “tool” either. That would be a verrrrry short meeting... In this scenario, WE are the tools. We are using our knowledge, experience, and fortitude to help them achieve something that they may have never done before. Let that simmer for a moment and understand how critical a role we are playing in the success of their organization.  A tool is something used to carry out a particular function - we’re all tools of success if you think about it. 

Oh, and as we all know, reps already spend a great deal of time as the politician too. Comes with the territory ;)

Sell better. SellAssist.