To create a sustainable business, you need a sales process to feed your organization a steady stream of customers and cash. Getting that going could be easier than you think as your first sales will likely come through networking rather than elaborate strategies.
Once you have your sales process up and running, you can think about other places in your business where you can gain efficiency by creating other processes. These routines will enable your business to run smoothly as it grows.
In this module, you’ll learn how to:
- Approach sales as relationship-building
- Build a network to support your business
- Structure an effective sales conversation
- Keep your customers coming back to you
- Develop other business processes to give you peace of mind
Sales and business processes
Introduction: Creating a sustainable sales process
Selling doesn't have to be scary
Selling uses skills that you may already possess. Use the my sales strengths (pdf) worksheet to explore your skills.
Building a network to support your business
Building your network can often be scary but it doesn't have to be. Use the network map worksheet (pdf) for steps to make building your network easier.
How to structure a sales conversation
Find tips on how to structure a sales conversation (pdf) in this worksheet.
Keeping your customers
Customers return to a business when their expectations have been succeed. Determine how you can surprise and delight your customers (pdf) to keep them coming back.
Other business systems to give you peace of mind
Use the weekly cash flow worksheet (excel) to keep track of your business finances.
Check out the top 10 time management tips for entrepreneurs (pdf) for more suggestions to develop a process mindset and maximize productivity.
Take Entrepreneurial Action
(Required activities)
- Complete the Network Map worksheet—and follow through on making those new connections!
- Create a rough sales script for your product or service and test it out with three prospects. Then reflect on what worked well and what you can improve for next time.
Reflection Questions
Think of a situation in which you persuaded someone to “buy” something from you—either a product, a service, or an idea. What strengths and strategies made you successful? How can you leverage those in your business?
For Further Help
- Top 3 Strategies to Sell Without “Selling”
- Interview with Daniel Pink about his book To Sell Is Human
- The Beginner’s Guide to Relationship Selling
- Starting up a Business? Focus on the Business Process
» UP NEXT: Module 9 - What does entrepreneurship mean to you?