Take Pride In Your Appearance

If you want more sales, you have to take pride in your appearance.

When I was first learning my craft, a competitors salesman stopped by our office one day and spent some time talking with my boss.

As he was leaving, my boss pointed at him out the window and told me to never, ever look that sloppy and dirty and expect to sell. ” He couldn’t sell me water in the desert “, was how my boss described him.

If I’m going to be out of town, even for just a trip a couple of hours away, and calling on customers, I try to keep a backup shirt with me.

I tend to get my lunch on me more than in me. Usually it’s when I try to answer my cellphone and eat at the same time.

If I have a big sales presentation to make, I like to get a haircut and shoe shine, before I go. To be good, you have to look good. And feeling good about yourself helps your confidence.

I don’t like to change my appearance with a different haircut or shoes I’m not comfortable in, just before a big sales call. Kind of superstitious, but it works for me.

Don’t listen to anyone who tells you that appearances don’t matter. They just don’t want to put forth the effort it takes or they’re cheap and don’t mind looking like a B-Team player.

Also, don’t go into a presentation in a 3 piece suit with people who wear business casual. Never over-dress and make the situation tense.

I’ve always wondered why some of the guys who announce golf for a living are made to wear suits and ties to interview golfers. Really, it’s hot, there’s sand traps and water. There’s no hardwood floors or carpeting to be found.

Even in my day to day work, where I wear slacks and golf shirts most days, I hate for a vendor to come in wearing a suit and tie. Rarely do I buy from one like that and I’m sure other people feel that way too.

Make sure you look ready for the day and stay looking as good as you can, even if you have to wear two shirts a day.

Keep a second pair of shoes in your office or trunk, if you end up on a jobsite on occasion.

Never over-dress for the presentation.

Don’t listen to those that aren’t as serious about their job as you are.

Enjoy the success this will bring. Winning is the best revenge.