How do you know if telecommuting is for you?

I have seen more and more employers offering a home office setup. This even includes employers with an office in your city. Some sales people love this because, aren’t we supposed to be out of the office anyway?

Before you jump at the chance to telecommute, make sure it’s for. Some sales reps find that they lack the comradery that they previously had. Do not underestimate the feeling of loneliness. It could lead to feelings of isolation and affect your performance. In addition, some salespeople need the presence of other salespeople to get the adrenaline flowing and they like the friendly competition that daily contact provides.

If you are the type of salesperson that never needs to be reminded to hand in activity reports, forecasts and update your funnel, then telecommuting might be for you. If you are disciplined and generally work well alone, then this might be the path you take.

When working from home it is important that the salesperson know where to seek out resources and how to use them. Telecommuting does not mean that you are alone. Use emails and voice mails with your colleagues in other territories to stimulate that healthy competition.

A salesperson who has been successful working in this manner is probably someone disciplined and mature. Be sure to mention this small fact when interviewing with the employer or sales recruiter.

Happy Selling

Managing your brand

You are your own brand and every choice you make, tells your audience a little about you.

I met a candidate about 1 year about who had been downsized after 18 years at a large multinational. His life had been all about corporation X. He never took the time to build his "brand". Faced with unemployment at the young age of 47, he had nowhere to turn. His social life and business life was filled with people from corporation X. He never took the time to build his brand. No matter how happy you are in your present position, take time to meet people outside of your company, network at lunches and cocktails. How about picking up a cause that his dear to you. Giving back is a responsibility. It is also a great place to meet like-minded people.

Get out of your comfort zone and go to an even alone. It will force you to meet new people.

What are you all about? Who do you associate with?

Take the time to build solid relationships. Pick up the phone and make time for people. And don't just do it to get something back in return. Do it because you are genuinely interested in meeting new people or learning more about someone.

How about learning a new skill or going back to school? Perfect a skill or go back to school to sharpen or deepen your knowledge. Invest in yourself.

Read more.

Find out what you're good at and teach it to someone else. This is also about giving back.

Don't wait until you need people to need people.

Your brand belongs to you,so master it. This will help you in your current position and future ones but don't wait until you need to build your brand to start. It should be an ongoing effort.

Happy Selling
D