Here's how you can navigate situations when your boss is unavailable or inaccessible in outside sales.

1 Trust Instincts

You've been hired in outside sales for a reason: your judgment and ability to sell. When your boss is unavailable, trust your instincts . Remember the training and past experiences that have shaped your decision-making skills. Consider what your boss would do in the situation, but also don't be afraid to lean on your understanding of the client and the product. Your intuition is informed by your knowledge and experience, so give it the credit it deserves.

2 Seek Guidance

While your boss might be inaccessible, that doesn't mean you're alone. Reach out to a trusted colleague or a mentor within the company for their input. They can offer a fresh perspective or share how they've handled similar situations. This not only helps you make a more informed decision but also strengthens your network within the company, showing that you value collaboration and are proactive about seeking support when needed.

3 Analyze Risks

Making decisions without your boss means assessing risks on your own . Take a moment to analyze the potential outcomes of your choices. What are the short-term and long-term implications? Are there any precedents that can guide you? Weighing the pros and cons helps you to anticipate possible objections or questions that may arise later, allowing you to prepare and respond more effectively.

4 Document Decisions

When acting without direct supervision, it's crucial to document your decisions and the rationale behind them. Write down the situation, the options you considered, and why you chose a particular course of action. This not only creates a record that your boss can review later but also helps you reflect on and learn from each decision you make, which is invaluable for your professional growth in outside sales.

5 Stay Communicative

Communication is key in outside sales, especially when your boss is out of reach. Keep them informed with brief updates via email or text, highlighting critical decisions and actions taken. This shows that you're handling responsibilities maturely and keeps them in the loop, which can be crucial for continuity when they're back. It also demonstrates your ability to manage independently while still respecting the chain of command.

6 Adapt Quickly

In the dynamic world of outside sales, adaptability is a prized skill. When your boss is unavailable, be prepared to pivot quickly. This might mean rescheduling meetings, adjusting strategies on the fly, or even stepping into leadership roles temporarily . Embrace these challenges as opportunities to showcase your flexibility and commitment to the company's success, even in unexpected circumstances.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?