Save the fist bumps until you know your customer well.
Regardless of how exceptional your product is, the first impression that your customer has of you affects your ability to close a sale. Research by the Brooks Group shows that less than 15 percent of customers have a positive view of salespeople, regardless of the product type. This means that, typically, you are fighting an uphill battle before you ever speak. Use your introduction to your customer to overcome some of the negative associations with salespeople before you try to sell your product.
Instructions
1. Prepare to meet a prospective customer by writing your introduction. Use the customer's name at least twice to help you remember it. Provide your customer with the opportunity to learn your name by using it twice, as well. For example, "Hello Mr. Smith, I'm John, John Brown. It's nice to meet you Mr. Smith." Do not call the customer by his first name until he gives you permission to do so.
2. Practice your introduction with others before meeting your customer. Ask friends to listen and provide constructive criticism about your introduction.
3. Note your body language when practicing with people you know. Typically, you have a more relaxed demeanor when talking with friends. Paying attention to your handshake, posture and the tone of your voice helps you know appear relaxed when introducing yourself to your customer.
4. Pay attention to your customer's demeanor and body language during your introduction. If your customer seems agitated or rushed, consider handing the customer a business card and asking if you can call on him later.
5. Maintain distance between you and your prospective customer during the introduction. Remain close enough to lean forward slightly and shake your customer's hand but not so close that the individual looks away or steps back to avoid you.
Tags: your customer, your introduction, attention your, body language, introduction your