First of all, everything that goes up will eventually come down. It's a given, and we know it. But it doesn't mean we like it.
This is especially true in sales. We all know how great it feels when we are on that sales "high" - when the sales are coming fast and easy. On the other hand, when things do seem to slow down, it’s not only lousy for the obvious reasons, but also, our ego's take a huge hit, as well. We then get down on ourselves and begin to question our abilities. And you know what? This is one of the best things to get us back in gear - to look closely at what is really going on. We need to be "accountable" to some degree for our drop in sales. I know this is not what you want to hear, but if someone keeps feeding you the line that "it's the economy right now", or "no one is selling strong", then we will just give in to it and stop trying.
THIS IS NOT THE WAY A HUNGRY SALESMAN WILL ACT. The serious salesperson knows that there are opportunities around every corner. Never accept the statement that sales are slow. Rather, think of it as a game, and the treasure chest is just harder to find.
Staying somewhat aggravated, if you will, will help keep the fire burning in the pit of your stomach - encouraging you to get back to basics. Revisit the core of your sales process. Fine tune any areas that you think may have gone awry. Rehearse what you are going to say - over and over until it is near perfection. Think about any area in your sales process that may have become lackadaisical in. Sharpen every one of your skills until they are up to par.
Also, as we all know, when the sales slowdown, so too do our commissions. This facet may have a huge impact on our lives. After all, what fun is making it if you can't spend it? However, try to be aware that these slower times may turn up, so that when the funds are less, we are prepared to deal with that fallout as well, and make the necessary adjustments in our lives.
This scenario in itself should be enough to keep you pushing forward - never giving up hope that a new opportunity is waiting around each and every corner.
Sales are slow? Ok - no sense dwelling on the negative. Go out there and make more phone calls. Network with as many people as possible. Attend a meet up group now and then that has others in your field and brainstorm what may or may not be working for them. Don't let less motivated co-workers hold you back. Re-assess all who are involved in your sales process - weeding out all of the "toxins" as you come across them. Be self-motivating - acting on internal drives versus external. Go after each sale with the thought that it doesn't always matter what the outcome is. Rather, you are getting you name out there - building your brand. And if you come across in a respectable, memorable way, you will be the first one they call when the time arises.
DON'T WAIT FOR THE CRISIS MOMENT TO HAPPEN. Take charge of each and every day like you own it, and hold on tight. The ride may be bumpy, but just think about the last roller coaster you went on. The crazier the ride, the greater the reward at the end.
