Do you ever ask yourself if you’re really cut out to be in sales? Ironically, the number one question I receive is from individuals who are currently not in sales. They ask some variation of, “Do you think I’m cut out to be a salesperson?”

Your non-sales buddies probably ask you the same question.  Do you ask yourself the same question sometimes?

Sales is a soft science and I don’t ever want to say yes or no to that inquiry. The person asking the question could be the one out of 100 who, while breaking all sales rules, might be profoundly successful. I’ve seen it a number of times.

Sales Advice For The Undecided
Whether you’re contemplating a career as a sales professional or questioning if you should remain, the following quote will provide an answer. It’s a test. Read the words below and ask yourself, “Does this describe me?” If it doesn’t, sidestep sales as a career choice, because you will be unhappy and unfulfilled as a sales professional.  You’ll feel like an imposter.

Sales can reward nicely. However, it can be a punishing daily existence for those who don’t have it in their blood.

Sales Tips From Niccolo Machiavelli
“All courses of action are risky, so prudence is not in avoiding danger (it’s impossible), but calculating risk and acting decisively. Make mistakes of ambition and not mistakes of [laziness]. Develop the strength to do bold things, not the strength to suffer.”
— Niccolo Machiavelli

Does This Resonate With You?
When you read these words, do they fill you with a sense of passion and motivation for action?

Do Machiavelli’s thoughts make you want to say, “That’s right!” as you read them?

Does this quote inspire you to think of personal opportunities where bold and assertive action is summarily called for?

It’s Your Decision
Not everyone is hardwired for sales. It’s okay not to follow a sales path.

I encourage you to be candid with yourself when taking the litmus test above. If you don’t pass, there is no shame. But find a career that inspires the same kind of fire in you that a sales professional finds in Machiavelli’s words above.

Further reading:

• The 10 Steps Of A Sales Professional’s Employment Life Cycle
• 4 Reasons You’re Proud To Be A Sales Professional
• Why You Want To Stay In A Sales Career

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Tags: career, salespeople, types

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