Agreements are the Foundation

Talking with someone today reminded me the power of gaining agreement. They have many failed relationships personally and professionally and constantly ask why, but don't always seek the answer to their question. It hit me in the middle of the conversation that they like to point out what is wrong, broken and not working...... A LOT. Most of their talk centers around what is OFF and why they disagree. Crazy thing is that every relationship is build on agreement. Common goals and purpose, defined parameters and terms that each party commits to. Whether you are about to ask for their hand in marriage or build a profitable business partnership, you have to gain agreement.

What are the agreements you need in your business in order to increase your income and margin? Most likely it will be in these categories below. For professional salespeople; you will boost your sales if you know what agreements you need to gain in order to close. You can get more specific to your industry based on what your clients purchase. (PS- interview potential clients to find out what they like and agree to in each area)

1. Do we like each other? (Trust/Values/Passions/Dreams). People buy you first. Are you heading in a similar direction?
2. Technical configuration meets or exceeds requirements. (Look at your list of non-negotiables. Have you made a list of what you are looking for?
3. Economic and financial (How have they handled this in the past and what do they plan to do?)
4. Support during and after the close. Each party has to give. It is helpful to know ahead of time what time and money you need to provide the necessary service and overdeliver.

What else can you think of that you need agreement on?