From relationships to mindsets, many things connect back to your shed sales results.
I’ve been reflecting lately on the relationships I’ve formed over the last 14 years in the shed industry. It’s amazing how the people I now call friends come from such different walks of life. Each has a unique personality, yet somehow, we’ve all found common ground.
Like most things, I tend to connect this back to sales.
A good salesperson learns to relate to anyone who walks onto their lot. Some folks have that “cool kid” energy—the ones everyone gravitates toward, the shed celebrities of our world. Others are quiet, steady, and reserved. Both have their place.
It reminds me of my dad, who was a pastor during my childhood. He wasn’t loud or flashy, but he spoke with conviction and authenticity. He simply shared what was on his heart—and people listened. Now, selling sheds isn’t preaching, but there’s a lesson there. Both involve presenting truth to people who are searching for answers.
You don’t need to pretend to be someone you’re not. Just prepare yourself, tell the truth about your product, and keep showing up. When doubt creeps in, return to the basics:
- Keep your lot clean.
- Know your product inside and out.
- Invest in yourself—study, learn, and improve.
- Support your local community.
- Focus on solving problems, not just making sales.
We have more tools today than ever before—warranties that ease customers’ worries, 3D configurators that bring dreams to life, and flexible payment options that make ownership possible for nearly anyone. Use them.
THE POWER OF THE MINDSET
This past week, I visited one of my shed lots and talked with an employee about their sales mindset. They said, “I think I’m going to sell X number of sheds.”
If you’ve read any of my past columns, you can probably guess my response: “What’s your actual goal?”
The mind is powerful. If you shortchange yourself in your thoughts, you’ll see it play out in your results. Set clear, attainable goals—weekly, monthly, and yearly—and challenge yourself to stretch them as you grow. The right mindset will prepare you for anyone who walks onto your lot.
THE COMPANY YOU KEEP
Have you thought lately about your friendships and how they influence your day-to-day life at work and home? Sometimes it’s worth taking inventory of who’s shaping your mindset. My dad used to tell me, “You can’t run with a skunk and smell like a rose.”
That might sound a little preachy, but it’s true. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher.
This reflection hit home for me after organizing the Shed Sales Summit this past September in Knoxville, Tennessee—the kickoff to Shed Week. I couldn’t have done it without the friends I’ve made in this industry. It was an incredible time of sharing, learning, and listening—not just from seasoned salespeople but from those outside our field who spoke powerfully about mindset and purpose.
Our keynote speaker, Conner Dehlin, closed with the phrase “Just run.” That hit me. Too often, we get tangled in the cobwebs of daily distractions.
So, here’s my challenge to you. Write down the five things that truly matter to your success and growth as a salesperson. Keep them where you can see them—this week, this month, this year. Stay focused on what matters most.
If I can ever be of help to you—whether you’re new to the shed business or a seasoned pro—don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to help you become better at your craft.
