Great salespeople are masterful at asking open-ended, courageous questions of their prospects that either lead them towards, or away, from saying "yes" to their solution. There are many instances throughout the sales process where trial closes are appropriate to identify the prospects true compelling reason to make a change.
Everyone is always asking me: “What are the magic questions when closing?” My answer is simple: There is nothing magical about it. People who consistently close business do so because they have an effective process that they execute every time.
If the only time you are closing is when you have presented a solution, you might be working on too many opportunities that are not really opportunities.
1.) The first opportunity we have to close is during the appointment. When it sounds like there is some mental anguish or pain, we should ask the prospect to invite us out to discuss in more detail, or agree to another phone appointment when selling long distance.
2.) Our second opportunity comes after we have identified a problem. They must tell you they are committed to fixing the problem. In other words, they are going to pursue solutions until they find the one that works for them.
My 3 favorite questions to ask at this point are:
- Do you believe I understand your problem?
- Do you believe I have the ability to fix your problem?
- Do you want my help?
Remember this all happens BEFORE we go back and begin to work on solutions.
Our final opportunity comes after we have presented our solution and answered every objection and every question.
This one is easy, simply ask:
“What would you like to do now?”
When they don’t respond right away, avoid the temptation to jump in and rescue them. Wait for an answer.
If it’s a yes, schedule the next step, if a no go back to the pain.
Follow this process and your results will be MAGICAL.
