TwoCents | Market Ready - by Samuel Ibok

Marketers de try. Again Marketers de try. I've been on a sales journey for the last 3 years, and I can tell you categorically that it is the hardest job on the planet! I know it's an exaggeration, but the magic marketers perform is crazy. First, a lot of Nigerians are angry. I mean, waking up in Nigeria can be depressing. Then, someone walks into your office to pitch something to you. You will probably think they are crazy, but it's all a hustle for money.As a marketer, you're paid to receive insults. What have I not heard on the streets and offices in Lagos? My joy is in the fact that I've divorced shame, and I am hardly ever triggered by what people say.<img src="/media/inline_insight_image/images (58).jpeg" alt=""> If you're starting out in sales and you're already scared, I'm here to tell you that it's normal. Being appraised on the basis of how much monetary value you bring to your organisation is not funny. It can be very annoying when you see others scale the ranks while you're stuck in one position. If you're like me, I'd advise you to do your best on the job, save up, and when you hit a certain amount, kukuma resign and do something else, even if na to de house! You don't have to agree with me.As a newbie, you actually have all it takes to grow, but you will have to be intentional and daring. It's normal to start with your inner circle, which could be your family, friends, enemies, and neighbors. This is great, but don't stay hooked. You have to eventually broaden your funnel. One thing that helped me was the fact that I had great relationships with people. One of my juniors in secondary school legit introduced me to several of his colleagues, which helped my target. This just shows the importance of nurturing relationships and being a good human being. My previous employer embraced me warmly when I returned, asking for business. Please ensure that you resign the right way and don't burn bridges, even when you have a life jacket. People open doors.Learn to ask for help from your colleagues and customers. Now, your words and manner of approach are critical. Your words, tone, and action should align. Asking for help doesn't mean the end of the world. If we ask for more, we will get more. Sometimes we refrain from asking because we think we will be declined help. Well, that shouldn't scare you. The more no's, the better. You will end up building your communication skills, and you will become tougher. Your customers know people who equally need your services. This means that if you treat them well, they might refer you to others. As a marketer, you must stay informed. What are the trends in your industry? What is your competitor doing? It's a wise move to learn from your competition. Some customers will patronise you because you've sold yourself as someone who is informed. My dear, you must know your onions before you chop the suya! Product knowledge cannot be overemphasised.<img src="/media/inline_insight_image/images (59).jpeg" alt=""> You must be willing to try different strategies. Trying multiple strategies will give you context into how different customers or people are and what is best for specific people. Salespeople must be great at execution. Speed is a must. I know we say that direction is superior to speed, but I believe having direction and speed is a beautiful thing. Get quick. Again, get quick. Execute swiftly and sell yourself as someone who isn't dull or slow. Sales is primarily psychological, so try to get into the heads of your clients! Remember, you will be tested several times, but don't give up. In the words of David Goggins-Stay Hard! PS: You're probably wondering why I decided to use Investors pictures. I'm wondering about the same thing too!

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