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by Mike Brooks
How to Listen Like a Detective: I once heard an interview with a police detective that directly relates to sales. The detective was talking about various interrogation techniques, and he said something that I thought was brilliant and totally applies to the importance of listening while selling over the phone.
The detective said that when you ask a question you should never say or do anything that might cause your subject (prospect) to stop talking.
In other words, you listen. With full attention, and you don’t interrupt. You don’t ask other questions. You just keep listening even when you think they’re done.
In sales, and especially in inside sales where you don’t have all those visual cues, listening is the most important thing you can learn how to do.
By using a script, you’ll be able to really listen and so pay full attention to what your prospect is saying.
It was hard at first, but boy did it pay off. By not interrupting, I often heard my prospect tell me exactly what I needed to do or say to sell them.
Get in the habit of catching yourself interrupting your prospects and start using the mute button on your phone. You’ll be amazed by what they are trying to say.
So there you have it — some simple yet powerful ways to improve your listening skills. Just remember above all, don’t do or say anything that might cause your prospect to stop talking! Keep listening! and you will be ready to listen like a detective.
About the author
Do you have an underperforming inside sales team? Talk to Mike to see how he can help you and your team reach your revenue goals. To learn more about Mike, visit his website: http://www.MrInsideSales.com