My Opinion is not Relevant

Have you heard that phrase?

I have! And I wonder why people say that – when I have asked for their opinion...

A few weeks ago, I went shopping for a watch. A very polite woman said, “how can I help you” and I informed her, that I was looking for a watch for my husband. “Certainly” she said and went down to show me their selection – a million brands, functions and designs! Not easy to choose from :)

Therefore, I asked for her opinion – some guidance more than just “this is what we have – it looks like this, and it does like this”

Her answer: “My opinion is not relevant – you know him, and I don't”

I felt more confused than informed and guided! You know that feeling?

It happens when it’s all about facts and no story or bonding.

I wanted her to feel my excitement about our wedding anniversary, be curious about me, and tell me about her decisions in similar situations – to build up trust and bonding. And then I wanted her to narrow down all the options to something I could choose from. Make my purchase easier, and help me feel confident, that I had made a great choice!

She did the exact opposite!

Luckily for her I was determined to find the perfect watch, and I found it because I had enough time and confidence in my own decisions – but it was with no help from her, I Googled my questions.

Customers don’t always have that time or confidence – to purchase they need a sales person with empathy and passion. A person they can lean on and trust have the right knowledge to guide them to the right decision. If they don’t get that, they will find it with someone else.

That is the reality no matter if it’s B2C, B2B or B2G – it is H2H and humans don’t buy facts alone :)

I love to hear stories – so would be great, if you would share yours in the comments!

Looking for more inspiration within sales? 

Find more inspiration in my other blog posts, or contact me for sales coaching.