Flexibility in Sales and Training

Have you seen the latest MasterCard commercialConsider this tip: Content Transfer is king! Don't let
where everything is flowing precisely as plan inthe content of your sales or training presentation
the florist shop, until some jerk tries to pay withdrive the exchange. In order to transfer
that cumbersome old means of exchange...CASH?knowledge and wisdom to your client (s), you
As soon as he pulls out the currency...everythingmust be sure to listen to the client and make the
screeches to a halt. The system is smooth, butcontent fit their needs. Recently, my Partner
can't handle any variables. There is NO flexibility.Lynne and I were dining in one of our favorite
Over the years, I have had many opportunities toestablishments and the server informed us of a
observe professional trainers and sales people.new dessert menu. She went on to tell us of a
They often offer their information to their clientscontest wherein the server selling the most
in a "canned" or scripted format. Take fordesserts in July would be awarded a bonus. Rarely
instance the technical trainer who presented hisam I motivated to purchase anything simply
program, exactly the same way, every time. Itbecause the sales person could win something.
didn't matter to him whether the participantsHow about you? Had she told me about the
were new-hires or experienced learners. Thedecadent warm chocolate cake with a hot fudge
delivery was the same every time. Unfortunately,center and a scoop of cold French vanilla ice
the program was aimed at the more talentedcream, that everyone raves about...she would
technicians and therefore it imparted little or nohave sold us.
knowledge to the attendees. By the way, theyBeing flexible in your presentation in the classroom
also said the class was a "boring waste of time."or a selling transaction is most important. The
Each of us has been approached by the salesclient or customer, learner or participant needs to
person that delivers a scripted message. Theyknow, only what they need to know to perform
give the obligatory greeting to make us think theythe job or make the purchase. Don't get wrapped
care. Then they ask a probing question to lead usup in your "canned" presentation. Identify your
into their sales pitch. Finally they dump all theclients or participants needs from the product or
features and benefits they can muster.training you offer. Then be flexible in the way you
Fortunately, most sales people like this, don't everdeliver the presentation. Make it fit their needs
ask for the sale. So it's up to you...the buyer. Doand answer their problems. That is how you will
you want it or not?share your knowledge and help your client buy
Here's the point:Whether you are a trainer or ayour product or learn from your training.
sales person, you must be flexible in yourBe sure to incorporate flexibility into your system.
approach.