The Power of Selling
Chapter 8 The Preapproach: The Power of Preparation
Video Ride-Along The video The Pre-Approach features Tonya Murphy, general sales manager at WBEN-FM She discusses pre-approach which cannot be done in one specific way She explains the importance of the “I know statement” To view the video, click here
Chapter Objectives Explain how to research a qualified prospect and list resources to conduct prospect research. Understand how to identify needs and opportunities. Learn how to set SMART precall objectives. Discuss key elements of presentation preparation.
Researching Your Prospect: Going Deeper Gathering information as much as possible about your prospect demonstrates personal commitment and boosts your credibility Research plays a crucial role in both target account and key account It is important to use a precall planning worksheet when you are contacting your new or existing customers
Figure 8.1 - Precall Planning Worksheet
Going Deeper with the Fundamentals: What You’ll Want to Know About the company Demographics Company news Financial performance About the company’s customers Customer demographics Size of customer base What customers are saying about your prospect
Going Deeper with the Fundamentals: What You’ll Want to Know About the current buying situation Type of purchase Competitor/current provider Current pricing
Going Deeper with the Fundamentals: What You’ll Want to Know About the contact person Title and role in the company Professional background Personal information Essential problem(s) your contact needs to solve Motivation for buying
Going Deeper with the Fundamentals: What You’ll Want to Know About your existing customers Opportunities to expand the relationship Opportunities for synergy Item number: 97195610
Preparation Is Essential The video Pre-approach features Priya Masih, sales representative at Lupin Pharmaceuticals Priya Masih talks about the importance of preparation before a sales call According to Priya Masih, being prepared allows you to make an impact and a strong first impression on your client To view the video, click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IY1ObVnOlzg Source: YouTube
Sources of Information Online searches Business directories Publicly available contracts Trade journals Blogs, social networks, and online forums Professional organizations
Table 8.1 – Benefit Statements Examples
Determine Your Objectives Setting precall objectives is strategically important before your sales call Precall objectives: Goals that are determined for the sales call before the call is made
Figure 8.5 – SMART Objectives
Setting SMART Objectives The video ‘How to get Better Results From Your Sales Meeting’ features Brian Conway Brian Conway discusses the importance of setting SMART objectives He further explains how setting SMART sales objectives gives a salesperson the required clarity on the process and he /she knows exactly what he/she wants to achieve To view the video, click here Source: YouTube
Figure 8.6 – Examples of SMART Objectives
Four Ps of Presentation Preparation Prioritize your agenda Personalize it Prepare illustrations Practice