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Winner of the Video Sales Error Contest!

Last month, I posted a video that contained a set of sales errors and asked readers to list them out. (See "Video: Can You Spot the Sales Errors") I've received dozens of entries, but the best came from Ken McGrath, a television presenter for The Shopping Channel in Canada and a sales consultant for Buccellati Inc.

Here's the video again... click on the link below to get the list.


BTW: This video was produced by the clever fellows over at "The Sales Roundup Podcast".

CLICK HERE to display the list of sales errors. »

  1. Does not greet potential client properly.
  2. Does not introduce himself or present card or brochure.
  3. Does not ask client if this is an appropriate time to meet.
  4. Assumes things without waiting for real answers. (e.g. do you play golf?)
  5. Pointing to personal photos immediately is tacky and invasive.
  6. Assumes children are the client's.
  7. Assumes client knows and likes him "now that we have got to know each other." This is a turn off that's both aggressive and annoying.
  8. Asks inappropriate question (i.e. "what keeps you up at night?") which is invasive and aggressive.
  9. Makes inappropriate comment about Mr. Johnson's sex life & partner calling her "the little lady" (Client could be single, kid pictures could be nieces and "partner" might not be ""little lady")
  10. Talks about himself and his company without asking any questions to Mr. Johnson about his company his needs.
  11. Since he has not introduced himself we do not know his name, title or role at "Consolidated down the road"
  12. Introduces unrequested "business offer" without explanation, calling it "an aggressive proposal." Bad choice of words.
  13. Makes unbelievable call to "sales manager" then "assumes" client accepts deal without asking for business closing or confirming acceptance.
  14. Appears nervous and desperate for the sale.
  15. Does not leave card, any information, or copy of "sales contract."
  16. Invites himself to further annoy client in future at unaccepted golf date.
  17. Forces client to introduce call display, call block, email block,and armed security escort next time sales guy shows up!
READERS: Spot any more? I can see a few that even Ken missed!
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