Prospects who choose to take no action almost always have serious objections/concerns that prevent them from buying. If you are going to make the sale, you need to clarify the true objection and overcome it. Remember, we mentioned earlier that objections are a natural part of the buying process. You must expect them, then maintain your poise under pressure. Don't be defensive. You first want to draw your prospect out, so he or she will discuss the objection. When this happens, you want to listen. Really listen, so that you understand what is coming between you and the sale. Remember, you have a right to know exactly why your prospect objects to buying. At this point, your job is to manage the situation, so your prospect is able to discuss his or her objection.
There are several steps you can use to do this:
- Reduce the tension. Make sure your attitude and demeanor are not overly aggressive or defensive. Use the relationship you have developed with your prospect to draw him or her out.
- Probe. If your prospect can't clearly articulate the objection/concern, ask probing questions to discover if the stall is based on confusion (if so, guide your prospect through the misunderstanding); unmet needs and wants (if so, amend the plan to meet them); or objections/concerns (if so, continue the process).
Examples of probing questions:
- "Is there a part of the plan that I have made unclear to you?"
- "What bothers you about the plan we've been discussing?"
- "Is there something you are unsure of?"
- "Is there something I could make more clear?"
- "Is there some reason you feel the plan does not meet your needs and wants?"
- "Why do you feel that waiting is to your advantage?"
- Gain the commitment to act. Get your prospect to agree that, if you answer the objection or concern, he or she will act upon your recommendation. Continuing with our previous example, you might say:
- "Mary, if we can resolve that objection/concern, is there any other reason why you wouldn't want to go ahead with this plan today?"
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