Did You Hear?

Are you just starting out in sales? Perhaps you've entered the world of business ownership and you're operating with a staff of one (i.e., you). Or, maybe you've recently scored a coveted sales position and you need some advice. Even if you've been in the game a bit longer, there's nothing wrong with brushing up on the basics.

Whatever the case may be, we've got you covered. Print+Promo reached out to a few pros to learn their secrets for sales success—and they didn't hold back. Here's what they had to say.

Kelly Mallozzi

Principal, Success.In.Print, Chicago

"As far as I'm concerned, the best way to be successful in sales is to put your ego aside and realize that you are in the business to serve others. To that end, the greatest gift we can give another person is to listen. Listen without an agenda, without judgment and without need of an expectation of getting something back. And if you listen, and care more about your prospect's needs than your own, you will win. Every time."

Bill Mahre

President, ADG Promotional Products, Hugo, Minn.

"First, clearly understand the other person's opportunity or situation. Second, keep ideas simple and easy to understand, especially from a benefit standpoint—if there are no clear benefits, then the reason to take action is unrealistic to expect. Too often execution can become complicated or murky, so make sure that everyone knows timelines, who does what and [...] the ultimate outcome that is desired, so everyone understands what success will look like. Finally, stay organized and follow up in a timely fashion to each communication step or inquiry. When people become frustrated with a salesperson and go elsewhere, it is typically because a proposal lacks clarity or the responsiveness of the salesperson is not timely."

Steve Brocker

Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Western States Envelope & Label, Butler, Wis.