Sales are Down
I always hated having to explain why sales are down. There is never a good answer.
Sales executives and managers have no shortage of challenges. I can remember numerous times.
I faced challenges when sales were off. One year in February, we were already behind budget in sales. I knew I had to do something. So I quickly thought up a 3-point plan and marched down to my boss’s office.
I stated that I was concerned about sales, and I decided that I was going to do the following:
- Cancel all training for the next 3 months
- Have the trainers out in the field supporting the team and
- Launch a contest that focused on reps making more calls
Not a brilliant plan, but I was being proactive. When my boss looked at his sales report the following day, I didn’t get a phone call asking what was going on.
Tip #12: Proactively Manage your Boss When Sales are Down
Your boss is no different than you. All bosses want to know two things: 1. that you know your issues and 2. that you are doing something about them. Put yourself in your boss’s shoes. S/he has enough to worry about. If your boss is spending time wondering what you are doing about your issues, they are questioning whether you are effectively doing your job.
Before your boss figures out your issues, communicate and demonstrate that you have a plan to address your issues proactively. Remember, the best defence is an offence. Always be proactive in your communication, especially if the business is down.
Sales executives and managers are looking for more management tips to take their game to the next level look for my book 52 Sales Management Tips: available at all online book stores.
