Throughout the last week of class, one of the key topics discussed was the importance of listening as a seller. It is crucial to focus on asking questions of the potentials customers rather than be the one talking the entire duration of the meeting or discussion. It can be very easy when selling a product or service to jump right in to selling the features of the item. However, doing this can quickly put off the potential consumer from purchasing the product, as they begin to believe that the seller does not care about their opinions or thoughts.
Over the past couple of years, I have been put in many situations where I have experienced this phenomenon as the potential customer. One of these situations occurred when I was interviewing for a job a couple years ago. The place that I was trying to find a job at severely needed new employees, so they were really attempting to sell me on the position. Due to this, the manager who was interviewing me tried to sell me on all of the features and benefits which would come with the position, rather that leave room for me to ask questions and answer any that she was giving me. While I did not view this as a negative in the moment, later on certain situations arose that would not have happened if I got the chance to ask my own questions. In addition, if the manager cared more about finding a role that was the right fit for me, rather than immediately sell me on this position, than these negatives, which led to me quitting the job, would not have happened. Throughout this experience, and the past couple of lectures, I have quickly learned the importance of taking a backseat when sitting in the seller role.
taylorjt23 
Bondre24 
wheelerne24
I wrote about something similar with listening to someone in order to help address their “pain”. The problem is that in today’s online culture people are so trained to be fast paced that it can be difficult for some people to just sit and listen. It’s going to take active work for gen z to learn how to listen to others’ problems.
Some great points! Yes, it is very important to listen so that the seller can know how to sell to those particular persons wants and needs. Listening helps get to the “why” and the true pain, allowing the seller to pinpoint the motive. great work
I love what you said on the topic, especially how you brought up the fact that when the seller doesn’t listen, it can be off putting. It can be a very difficult thing for people to master, but once they do, the effects are incredibly beneficial for sales.
I think this happens to many people when they feel overpowered by a sales person. It is easy to make a mistake when the benefits appear substantial and there is no room to talk as the client. Listening can make a huge difference. I think if an environment is created where people feel comfortable expressing their need and concern it shows a level of trust. It also allows you as the salesperson to provide accommodation to the best of your ability.