What are the best ways to show initiative in Outside Sales?

1 Identify opportunities

One way to show initiative is to constantly look for new opportunities to grow your sales pipeline, expand your network, and increase your market share. This means doing your own research, reaching out to potential leads, asking for referrals, and following up with existing contacts. You can also use social media, industry events, and online platforms to generate interest and awareness for your products or services. By identifying opportunities, you show that you are proactive, resourceful, and ambitious in your sales role.

2 Solve problems

Another way to show initiative is to solve problems for your prospects, customers, and colleagues. This means anticipating their needs, addressing their pain points, and providing solutions that add value and satisfaction. You can also solve problems by finding ways to overcome objections, negotiate deals, and close sales. You can also use feedback, data, and best practices to improve your sales processes, strategies, and skills. By solving problems, you show that you are helpful, reliable, and competent in your sales role.

3 Learn new skills

A third way to show initiative is to learn new skills that can help you succeed in outside sales. This means staying updated on the latest trends, technologies, and techniques in your industry, market, and niche. You can also learn new skills by taking courses, reading books, listening to podcasts, or watching videos that can enhance your sales knowledge, communication, and presentation abilities. You can also learn from your peers, mentors, and managers by asking for feedback, advice, and guidance. By learning new skills, you show that you are curious, adaptable, and committed to your sales role.

4 Create value

A fourth way to show initiative is to create value for your prospects, customers, and company. This means delivering on your promises, exceeding expectations, and building long-term relationships. You can also create value by upselling, cross-selling, and renewing contracts with your existing accounts. You can also create value by sharing your insights, ideas, and success stories with your team, department, and organization. By creating value, you show that you are trustworthy, professional, and loyal in your sales role.

5 Seek challenges

A fifth way to show initiative is to seek challenges that can help you grow and excel in outside sales. This means setting ambitious goals, pursuing new markets, and exploring new products or services. You can also seek challenges by volunteering for projects, tasks, or roles that can stretch your abilities and showcase your potential. You can also seek challenges by asking for more responsibilities, feedback, and recognition from your managers and leaders. By seeking challenges, you show that you are confident, motivated, and eager to advance in your sales role.

6 Lead by example

A sixth way to show initiative is to lead by example in your outside sales role. This means acting with integrity, honesty, and respect in every interaction and situation. You can also lead by example by sharing your vision, values, and goals with your prospects, customers, and colleagues. You can also lead by example by inspiring, supporting, and mentoring others who want to learn from you or follow your footsteps. By leading by example, you show that you are a role model, a leader, and a star performer in your sales role.