Who really understands how hard you work? Do other employees understand the critical role you play in the company or do they simply think you “deliver candy, go out to lunch every day, and drive a nice car while they slave away on nasty job sites all day”? As a sales professional, you can help drive the culture of teamwork in your organization. Maybe you’ve heard it said, “Sales solves many problems”, or “It all begins with the sales department; nothing happens unless something gets sold today.” Those statements are true, but most people focus on “operations” rather than “sales.” No game is won by play defense (operations) alone; winning teams must combine a strong defense (operations) AND a winning offense (sales).
Creating a culture of teamwork, one that keeps everyone focused on your customer satisfaction score, engaged in your company’s profitability, and causes them to work together to grow your organization, that culture can begin with you. You need “operations”, you need the people who serve the customer with diligence and passion. You need those who manage the office and make things run well. You need file handlers and estimators who meet tight deadlines on uploading program jobs every day. We all need each other….but it takes someone to demonstrate that and begin to build that kind of a culture into your business. And that person needs to be you, the sales professional.
Little things matter—like knowing each technician’s name. Speak to them by name. Know all the office staff by name. Look for times when people do things well…then thank them. Once in a while, slip a candy bar to someone who worked extra hard on a job your agent referred to you. Look for ways to appreciate and pull your team together. And watch your attitude…negativity is contagious and what you say matters greatly.
Never forget what we talk about on our weekly calls….winning at home matters and it can start with you!