Sales Tip - The Fastest Way To Ruin Your Career

The subject line in an unsolicited email I received from a vendor trying to sell his service to RAB said: "I have tried to reach you." I opened it and read:

Hi john (sic),

I have tried to reach you several times regarding how we have been able to help organizations like rab (sic) by providing a feature rich online video presentation platform that allows you to quickly and easily assemble video content that works.

Although I was looking forward to speaking with you, I certainly don't want to be a nuisance or waste your time. To help me understand your situation, it would be helpful if you would respond with one of the following:

1. "I'm just not interested (so you can stop calling and emailing me). Thanks just the same."

2. "I'm not the person with whom you should be talking. I'd like for you to discuss this with ___________________."

3. "I'm interested, but really busy at this time. Please call me on this specific date __________ and this time ___________."

I appreciate your response, as it will help me save you some time and effort.

Best regards,

Chris

I responded:

Chris, I don't recall voice mails or previous emails from you. How have you tried to reach me? John

His reply:

John,

I believe I have, perhaps there is an error with the phone number I have in my record. Thank you very much for responding. I appreciate you taking the time. Are you considering synchronizing video with your presentations? Check out the web site, there are some great examples of how some of our clients are utilizing the tool.

Regards,

Chris

My response:

What phone number did you try?

After that, no response from Chris.

The approach of his email is not bad...if he had honestly tried to contact me and I had not responded. Sales careers are cut short by lying. Be honest with prospects and advertisers and enjoy a long and successful career in sales.

Source: John Potter, VP/Training, RAB