Can Introverts Succeed in Sales?

When you picture a successful salesperson, do you automatically picture an outgoing personality? That salespeople need to be charismatic, outgoing, and… extroverted?

Surely an introvert would struggle in sales – right?

I have some good news for the introverts: They make some of the best salespeople! The reality is that introvert qualities have a lot to offer in the sales process!

So, how does that work? Well, for starters, let’s examine what it means to be introverted.

Although it may not seem like it, I consider myself something of an introvert, (with tendencies toward being an ambivert) so I can speak with some authority on the subject. Introverts tend to be quiet and soft spoken. They are simply content to let others take center stage. This is probably the most common misconception about introverts: that they don’t like people.

Quite on the contrary, introverts value meaningful relationships and connections, and they tire easily of superficial conversation. They generally do not enjoy spending time with people in a context that lacks depth or purpose.

You see, an introvert is more likely to be intentional about who they call, what meetings they choose to schedule, and what they have to say and connect with their clients about! Introverts are great at paying attention to what people have to say, picking up on conversational nuances, and they tend to be great listeners!

Isn’t that everything you would want in a salesperson?

This was the message that came from the very successful Jim Hohl on my latest podcast. He’s a self-proclaimed introvert, a Quantum Sales Summit sponsor and someone I greatly admire. I was honored to have him on the show! We discussed topics like introversion, best practices, and client experience.Don’t miss it – listen to it here!

Know this: You do not have to change who you are to be successful in selling!

Do you consider yourself introverted? Does it contribute to a limiting belief? Here’s your belief shift: Introverts are phenomenal in sales!