Creativity – Many people read a book on “skills” of cold calling and selling. Do Step A and you get Result B. Fact is, there will be times getting your foot in door is about trusting your creativity.

How often have you gotten an intuitive thought or a feeling to try something different? And how often does reason take over intuition? Some of most successful sales professionals trust their intuition and inner knowing to lead them to step through door of unknown.

It is in willingness to explore unique methods for approaching any given situation magic of selling will occur. The next time you “get that feeling” be willing to explore creativity of your idea and watch magic happen.

Consistency – Success is often not result of big actions, but rather one tiny action at a time. It is in consistency of our actions on a daily basis; making call, following up on a regular basis, inputting names into database, and having a system that allows us to free our minds of unnecessary concern and clutter. When mind is clear, there is more opportunity to be creative and walk in a place of courage. This allows for truly serving needs of your customers and clients.

Selling is not about closing deal. It is about desire to serve others through products and services we provide. Serve well.

It is a good idea to have a cross section of testimonials you can use in your sales and marketing process. This way, regardless of your clients’ situation, you have a testimonial that will address their needs.

Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. Asking for a testimonial is not arrogant or egotistical. When you go above and beyond, most people are willing to let others know how much they appreciate you or your product.

A short time ago my most recent book was released. Myself and my co-authors have enjoyed increased daily sales with 101 Ways to Get Your Foot in Door. Although many people are telling us how fun, creative and useful book is, I knew if we could get testimonials from readers we would be able to use them in our marketing and promotions efforts.

I sent an email out to a few dozen folks who had purchased book asking for written feedback. Within minutes I began receiving testimonials. Here two of dozens I received:

“I was pleasantly surprised reading 101 Ways to Get Your Foot in Door. I was so impressed that I am requiring my sales staff to read it and we are getting together to discuss how we can implement some of these ideas into our marketing campaigns. Great job!” Michele Michalewicz, CTP, President, Western Leisure, Inc.

“101 Ways to Get Your Foot in Door was full of great ideas to separate sales people from ordinary. This is a must have book for those that want to be remembered and stand apart from ordinary sales person or marketing company. This book has been referred back to often and will be a permanent addition to our business library. Thank you for putting these ideas into a book.” Craig Watkins, Owner, Premium Exteriors and Coatings of Utah www.WhyKeepPainting.com

What Craig and Michele have said is a greater testament to a potential buyer than me telling them how great book is. And notice what it is doing for them… their testimony is added visibility for their company. A win/win situation.

Although testimonials are great to use, keep in mind that they do not replace simple act of asking potential clients for business. Testimonials are simply another key aspect of an effective success strategy.