Assertiveness is a hallmark of any Sales Professional. Sales Professional push back on customer thinking. They question the status quo. They are change agents. They insert themselves into situations where they can help customers, and they do so without a formal invitation. They are bold, but not arrogant. Sales Professionals who are assertive tend to:
- Take control and lead
- Take and defend a point of view
- Insert themselves into important situations
- Be willing to prospect
- Debate as appropriate with customers
Being assertive in sales is critical. Without it, you won’t be able to change customer thinking and influence decision makers. It’s also one of the most misunderstood sales attributes. It requires finesse, confidence, bravery, and a good dose of gravitas.