5 Tips for Non-Sleazy Selling

Selling has such a negative connotation, and so many of us really don’t enjoy the thought of selling.  The thing is, if we don’t sell, we can’t serve.  We can’t help the students that really need us and we can’t be there to support and educate the parents that also need us.

So, to help ease you into the whole selling scene a little more, I wanted to share my top 5 tips on how to sell, without being (or feeling) ‘sleazy’.

#1 Remember your 'why'

Yes, you are a business owner, but what is it that drew you to this particular style of business? I’m guessing that it’s because you enjoy working with children/teenagers and you love helping others. There is nothing 'wrong' with helping others, or using your skills and knowledge to support those who need it. You should feel good about it. You're making a difference.

#2 Consider what the alternatives would be

If these students didn’t come to you, what would happen? They might be seen by a tutor without your experience or expertise, OR, even worse, they might not see anyone at all! If you aren't there to help them, these students would not be able to progress. Your services are required and some would even say, crucial, to these students and families.

#3 Ask questions

You genuinely want the best for each student, so you need to know as much as possible about the student - because you care. Knowing as much as you can about your student, not only helps you to know what services would best work for the child, but it shows the family that you want to know more. You WANT to get to know this child and know how you can bring out their best.

#4 Listen

When you receive that initial enquiry phone call from the parent, listen. Selling isn’t all about telling someone how good you are or how amazing your services are. Selling is about listening to your customer and figuring out how you can help them. How you can solve their problems, but before you can do that, you need to listen. These initial phone calls will often be hard for the parent. They may feel overwhelmed, scared and even guilty. They are seeking help for their child, and they will often have a lot to share. If you take the time to listen, you will get a really good idea about the child (and family), and you will also allow the parent to build that trust with you, which is crucial. It's what sets you apart from the big companies.

#5 Be real and connect

Show your potential customers that you are a real person. Share your real-life experiences that will help your potential customer to see that you care and that you are genuine about what you do. Show them that there is no judgement (no matter what the situation), and give them encouraging words, for taking the steps towards seeking help/support for their child. Building that trust and making a connection is 'real'. It's not sleazy, it's genuine.

You don’t have to feel ‘bad’ about selling. You are merely helping the family, and solving a problem that they have. Yes, you want to make a profit (that’s why it’s a business), but even that is not a bad thing. Through your business you are able to support your own family and in turn, support other local businesses.

Reframe the way you think about ‘selling’ and you will be surprised at how easy and natural it becomes.

Good luck. You've got this!

Kirsty Gibbs