Ask for the sale

How to Build a Relationship and Ask for the Sale

I’ve been building up a relationship with a potential client for months. We have really great conversations, but she hasn’t made a commitment. I’m getting impatient to make the sale, but I don’t want to harm the relationship I’ve worked so hard for. How can I get this client to actually buy – soon – without alienating her? – Coleen …

How to Attract More Woman Business Owners

How to Attract More Woman Business Owners

I work for our city business development commission. What advice would you give to a city looking to attract more woman business owners?  – Maggie in Big Bear Lake, California Answer: Female business ownership is an important component of working towards gender equality. Owning a business is a huge investment and opportunity for financial growth, but only 36 percent of …

How Colorful Fabric Masks Guarantee Practical Help

How Colorful Fabric Masks Guarantee Practical Help

“Hey Lynn, I’ve seen in your recent post, and in the newsletters, that you have been coping with the COVID-19 pandemic by making masks. Would you share how this is helping with the associated stress? And maybe some tips on how to make the masks?” – Izzy in Milpitas, California Answer: Doing something constructive and taking action always improves my …

Donation Requests

How Should I Address Donation Requests with My Manager?

We have a tight sales budget, but there are times when a client requests we donate our products for a cause they are supporting. How do I approach management for approval of these donation requests? – Patty in Bethesda, MD  Answer: Every business has a responsibility to be a good partner in the community. This responsibility is demonstrated by actions, …

Event Invites

How Should I Handle Event Invites I do Not Want?

I am constantly invited to client events or ballgames after work and on weekends. How do I gracefully decline these event invites? – Tara in Denver, CO  Answer: Building rapport with clients requires time, attention, and genuine interest. Receiving an invitation from a customer is a compliment, and it speaks to the relationship you have fostered. It’s important to view …

How to Handle an Uneven Distribution of Leads

How to Handle an Uneven Distribution of Leads

Our company distributes the leads that come in to the sales reps. A disturbing pattern has emerged. Our sales manager gives the best leads – multi-million-dollar opportunities – to the male sales reps. The women reps get the leftover one-offs. Do I point this out to our manager or go right to HR? How should I handle this uneven distribution …