The Psychology of SalesmanshipAtkinson, William Walker
Science
The Psychology of Salesmanship
Atkinson, William Walker
Selling -- Psychological aspects
If you would understand what a scientific demonstration of an article or
proposition is like, it would pay you to listen to the demonstration by
a well-trained salesman of the National Cash Register Company. This
company drills its salesmen thoroughly in this part of their work, until
they have every detail fastened in their minds in its proper logical
order. An old salesman of this company should be able to repeat his
formula backwards as well as in the regular order--beginning at the
middle and working either backward or forward, at will. He understands
the "why" and "what for" of every detail of his article and proposition,
and is taught to present them in their logical order. Listening to a
talk of one of their best salesmen is a liberal education in
demonstration.
The essence of this stage of the demonstration is that it should be
given in the spirit of a conversational recital of an interesting story,
or description of an event. Speak in an impersonal way; that is, avoid
suggesting to the prospect that you are trying to sell him the thing.
Let this part of your talk be given from the sheer enthusiasm inspired
in your mind by the merits of your proposition. Let it be a labor of
love--forget all about your hope of sale or profit. Your one aim and
object of life, at that moment, should be that of inspiring the prospect
with the wonderful merits of your proposition, which you yourself
entertain. Yours should be the spirit of the propogandist seeking
converts--imparting information for the good of others, and "for the
cause." Forget the forthcoming collection plate, in the earnestness of
your sermon.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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