What a VP Sales at ProducePay Wishes They Knew Before a Sales Career
David, a VP of Sales, advises aspiring sales professionals to "take an entry-level sales role" early in their careers to learn organizational dynamics and overcome phone call anxieties. The importance of directness and confidently saying "no" after careful consideration, a skill learned early in their sales career, is also highlighted as crucial for success.
Sales, Entry-Level Sales, Communication Skills, Direct Communication, Saying No
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
David Bensimon
VP Sales
ProducePay
Usc
N/A
Business Management & Admin
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Sales and Client Management
Video Highlights
1. Take an entry-level sales role early in your career to learn how companies work and overcome the fear of direct communication.
2. It's okay to say 'no' directly and concisely in sales; clarity is appreciated.
3. Thoroughly analyze reasons why something may not work before concluding a deal or partnership.
Transcript
So, what didn't you know before you got into sales that you wish someone had told you?
I have a couple of things. First off, I wish someone had told me sooner how important it is to take an entry-level sales role, especially for anyone starting their career.
You don't necessarily need to stay there, but it's a great way to learn how a company operates and how you might fit within an organization. It also helps you shake off any fear of picking up the phone and calling someone or getting down to the nitty-gritty. I think that's very important.
The second thing is that it's okay to say no and to be very direct. People really appreciate it if you can deliver a clear and concise message. Identify the reasons why something might not work.
If you've considered all the reasons why something might not work and still arrive at the conclusion that there's no reason it *shouldn't* work, then it's probably a good fit. I think starting in a sales role taught me that, and it's how I operate now.
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