Decisions vs. process

I spoke with a client about a new project. He said he wanted to work with us but needed to have a process created that would allow that decision to be supported internally. As an entrepreneur, I bristled and asked, "Can you make the decision or do you need to take a vote?". He said, "Of course I can make the decision. I just wanted to be inclusive. I want collaboration."

I understood him. He wanted everyone happy, working together and in complete agreement. I asked, "Why not cut to the chase, take the lead, and make the decision?". He did.

We then spent the time collaborating with his team on the project, not wasting time on a fruitless process.

Barry LaBov
LaBov & Beyond
www.labov.com

Sell: Four letter word?

"I don't want to be a salesperson." I've heard that from many people, including many who have worked for my company. It's a crazy comment because our company is dedicated to helping our clients sell their products or services. For our clients, the word "sell" is a good thing.

Some feel that selling is beneath them. Nothing could be further from the truth. Creating ideas and helping clients overcome challenges is something to be proud of. That's what sales is about.

I know that we have all met people who sell for a living who are not particularly sincere people. But there are insincere people who are doctors, teachers, preachers, accountants, customer service agents, etc. That doesn't make those professions less honorable.

If you have creative ideas, solutions, solve problems, come up with breakthroughs and customers are happy to compensate you for it, congrats! You're a salesperson!

Barry LaBov
LaBov & Beyond
www.labov.com