First and foremost, I believe entrepreneurship requires something innate.
And that “something” is a deep sense of curiosity with a dash of rebellion. The entrepreneur is someone who creates momentum and disrupts the predictable rhythm of everyday life. To be an entrepreneur is to possess an immovable will, but also an adaptable approach that drives results.
Many people want to walk the path of entrepreneurship, but few can endure the process of stabilizing a business.
We see the glitz and glamour of self-employment on social media without taking into account the amount of frustration, resilience, and hours of learning it took that person to accomplish their goals.
When I began building my authority as a digital writer, I knew it wouldn’t be an easy task. But I couldn’t have anticipated the scope of what a writing career outside traditional methods would entail. Through trial and error, I had to develop a system that allowed me to prepare my ideas, communicate them concisely, nurture my readers, and stay attuned to their greatest pain points.
Regardless of the industry — whether it’s music, fashion, health, or something else — a portion of my readers struggle with the same problem: sales.
Sales often gets a bad reputation, but it’s essential in everyday life.
Think about every time you’ve needed assistance making a big purchasing decision. Let’s say an EQUINOX gym membership. If you were left alone with the sheet showing their monthly pricing, you’d likely walk out with no forward momentum in your fitness journey. But if a salesperson sat with you and explained the importance of consistency, the amenities you’d have access to, locations you can visit when you’re out of town, and how much money you’d save compared to buying day passes, your decision would be based on a clearer perspective, rather than one clouded by insecurity. The job of a salesperson isn’t to trick you — it’s to inform you and offer the best solution to address your specific concerns.
It also helps to believe you’re offering something of value.
You’re not cheating people out of their money if they’re gaining something that makes their life easier.
How many times have you hesitated setting a price for your work? Is it because you don’t think it’s worth the price or because you’re unsure how to present it? Those are two different problems. If you don’t think your product or service is worth the price you’re asking for, other people will pick up on that and you lose credibility. But if you’re struggling to present the price, reframe it as a cost-to-entry and not a barrier.
The only way to get over the fear of sales is to throw yourself into the fire (not literally — stay away from any nearby flames).
Reading about sales is a good way to get familiar with the customer journey and the mindset of those who have succeeded in sales.
However, no amount of scripts can prepare you for the curveballs people throw your way. If I had to give advice to someone learning sales for the first time, I’d recommend creating a simple offer and understanding what you’re selling, why you’re selling it, how it helps people, and what you’ll do to ensure it’s a fair trade (product/service for money).
The reality of sales is that there is no secret to it.
Sales is simply a conversation.
In these conversations, you use active listening to understand who they are, what issues they’re facing, and how you can present the best solution while addressing any objections. Objections and rejections are part of the game, but it’s how you handle them that matters. You can learn sales techniques, but you can’t teach grit.
If you‘re at the beginning of your entrepreneurship journey and ready to start building your authority online, download my free 8 step branding guide.
My calendar is also open for consultations.
