Sales is often seen as a glamorous job—making connections, closing deals, and basking in the glory of a big win.
But those of us who live in the world of sales know there’s a side to this profession that isn’t always visible to others. It can be lonely. The highs are exhilarating, but the lows can be difficult, especially when facing them alone.
Recently, I had the chance to sit down with most of our sales staff, and this reality hit me hard.
We had a great time talking and catching up. We laughed and engaged in some good-natured competition over who was the best salesperson on the team. In the end, one person earned the title of Salesperson of the Month—a recognition that’s always well-deserved.
But this meeting wasn’t just about who came out on top; it was about connecting as a team. It reminded me of how crucial those connections are, particularly when the going gets tough.
Sales isn’t just about selling products; it’s about maintaining momentum, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
There are days—sometimes even weeks—when it feels like every door is closing, every lead is going cold, and every effort is falling flat. During those times, the job can feel isolating, and the pressure can be immense.
It’s easy to get discouraged, to start doubting yourself, and to let those doubts impact your performance.
That’s why I believe it’s essential for every salesperson to have a solid support system in place. We all need someone—or better yet, a few people—who can offer encouragement, share a fresh perspective, or just listen when you need to vent.
A little support can go a long way in helping you regain your focus, boost your motivation, and get back on track.
And that’s what led me to this thought: if you don’t already have a support team, now is the time to build one.
Here’s my challenge to you: identify at least three people who can be part of your personal sales support team.
These are people you can reach out to when you’re feeling down, frustrated, or simply need some advice.
Why three? Because life happens.
The people you usually rely on may not always be available when you need them, so having a few options ensures you’ll have someone to turn to when it counts.
But who should be on your support team? The answer depends on your needs and circumstances.
Think about people who genuinely care about your success and well-being. This could be a
close family member like your father or a cousin who’s always been in your corner. It could be a childhood friend who knows you better than anyone, or a former colleague who understands the challenges of sales because they’ve walked in your shoes.
You might even consider someone from outside your immediate circle, such as a mentor
you’ve admired from afar or a business coach, who has the expertise to help you navigate tough situations.
Once you’ve identified these individuals, take some time to reflect on why you want to be able to count on them during your down times.
What strengths do they bring to the table? How have they supported you in the past? How do you think they can help you stay focused and motivated in the future?
Write down your reasons, and then set a date this week to get in touch with them. Explain what you’re looking for—a support system that offers encouragement, motivation, and maybe even a little tough love when necessary.
Make sure they understand that you’re not looking for someone to commiserate with, but rather someone who can help you push through the tough times and keep moving forward.
The winter months are fast approaching, and for many of us in sales, this can be a challenging season. The days are shorter, the weather is colder, and people’s moods often mirror the gray skies. It’s easy to fall into a slump, to let the slower pace of business affect your mindset and productivity.
But it’s during these times that having a plan and a strong support system becomes even more critical.
Don’t let the winter blues slow you down. Start planning now for how you’ll stay engaged and motivated through the cold months.
One of the best ways to do this is by being active and present in your community, especially on social media.
Social media is a free and powerful tool that can help you stay connected with potential clients, remind them of who you are, and keep your services top of mind.
Use it to highlight what makes you unique—whether it’s your exceptional customer service, your commitment to quality, or your ability to provide personalized solutions
that meet your clients’ needs.
From the first point of contact to the final delivery, be there for your customers. Show them that you’re not just selling a product; you’re offering a valuable service that they can trust.
And remember, every sale is an opportunity—not just to close a deal, but to build a relationship, gain referrals, and find new sales opportunities. Sometimes, simply
being attentive during a sale can open doors to additional business that you might have otherwise missed.
In the end, success in sales isn’t just about working hard; it’s about working smart. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, staying proactive even when
things slow down, and always being ready to seize the opportunities that come your way.
So, take the time to build your sales support team, plan for the months ahead, and set yourself up for success.
Together, we can make sure that the challenges of this profession only make us stronger.
