There is no doubt in the minds of many that there is an economic downturn as of this writing. That being said, there is also a growing popularity of direct selling. So we can all expect as a result that we will receive more invites for direct selling house party demos. That being said, in order for you to be successful, I have chosen to discuss an issue that is costing you rather than make many people involved in the direct selling opportunity a lot of pennies: verbal diarrhea!

I always thought that phrase that goes in one ear and out the other is very funny. I guess it’s just a kid thing because you see these visuals… ok ok!

One of the most frequently asked questions from direct sales reps is “How do I make direct sales appointments and keep them?” Party Plan Pat is here to help you with direct sales. Lend me your ears!

Your potential customers often express opinions and stories in every conversation. These opinions and stories hold the keys to fantastic opportunities for our use. The problem is that while telling these stories, we often allow our minds to wander focusing on when he’s going to make the sale or, worse yet, worrying about how to appear natural in order to get the sale.

You’ll see that the hidden secret to direct selling success stories is learning to capitalize on opportunities and listening purposefully. My friend, coach, and mentor Ann Sieg, also known as The Renegade Network Marketer, always told me, “Kagwiria, you can’t give information until you get information!”

There is a very simple mind game that can be played while listening that will help maximize every bit of information that is expressed as you go about your direct sales recruiting.

Are you serious about your direct sales opportunity? I thought so, great! OK, so I must tell you about the 3 vital skills that direct sales consultants must develop.

to become an accomplished listener.

#1. Visualize: No, don’t picture them in their underwear, that only works for public speaking and creepy sleazy guys! Visualize what is being said Remember that your client is expressing information that will help you achieve your goals later in the conversation. These memories are important to your customer, and if they are important to you, they will serve as the foundation for your success.

#two. Listen to body language There are a couple of effective tools for remembering body language. 95% of communication is non-verbal. Studies have shown that up to 95% of a message is conveyed through non-verbal actions. So just because you SAY what you mean doesn’t guarantee that the message will be accepted in the same way. Nonverbal cues could completely change the meaning recipients take from the message. Refrain from leaning back and crossing your arms in front of your chest. This will give the perception of being bored or having a closed mind. It is also important to maintain eye contact without staring. It is advisable to catch the speaker’s attention from time to time and then break contact with a polite nod. This shows that you are interested and paying attention.

#3. The mind game of listening. The repetitive nature of the direct selling business makes us so used to the flow of it. Many direct sales reps find it difficult to stay engaged and take a business-as-usual attitude. This game will allow you to practice your listening skills and will naturally hone your ability to accumulate information effectively. The game is all about keeping the conversation as exciting as possible, while accumulating as much information as possible without revealing anything about yourself. As you listen and process what is being said, ask yourself how this information can help you achieve your goals. This game will teach you to avoid thinking about your own stories and opinions while the Speaker is speaking. The greatest honor that can be bestowed is your undivided attention.

Listening has two benefits.

*First is that we are building a repository of information that can be used for our benefit.

*The second is that once we honor someone with our attention, it is only fair and proper that they return their attention. We will then be able to use the information to complete our objectives without interruption.

People are hungry for attention, the one who pays attention reaps the most benefits and remember:

“It’s not a conversation if only one person speaks”

-Throw

‘ears to your success 🙂