I recently presented a sales training web workshop entitled, Engaging the C-Suite Executive, which has generated a great deal of interest. One of the participants, Eric Schroeder, Senior VP of AON Corporation, asked the following sales question:
What’s the most effective method or strategy to encourage the C-suite executive to open up at the beginning of the sales call — so I can communicate and articulate my potential value?”
Opening the Sales Call with the C-Suite Executive
During the opening phase of the executive sales call — to make a more meaningful impression, and to establish your potential value — try these sales strategies:
- Introduce third-party information from an industry trade publication that you know would be of value to him. Even if he’s familiar with the information or article, it doesn’t matter. What’s important is that it allows you to leverage that information to have an educated conversation.
- Share quotes from a respected opinion leader in their industry. Whether they agree or disagree, C-suites like to keep up with what other leading folks are doing in their industry. The fact that you quoted this leader adds value — establishing that you’re up-to-date with what’s going on and you’ve earned the right to engage in meaningful dialogue.
- Mention another customer you’re working with and the challenges they are facing — challenges similar to those of the C-suite executive. You will send the message that you understand what he is facing and are in tune with his issues and his problems — and that you have the experience to resolve them. The result — you will establish instant credibility as to who you are and the value you can deliver.
