Source
r/sales•
Authoritieslie

Losing sales abilities

Question

How long would you say it takes in a position that encourages bad habits to lose some fundamentally foundational sales skills? Always thought it was like riding a bike, but trying to do some research and would like some different perspectives. Is it possible to lose things like active listening skills, empathy, and strategic planning skills by not using them? Do you think it’s possible to lose things like interpersonal/relationship development skills? Would like some perspectives.

Posted Jan 24, 2022, 11:32 PM UTC

23
cynicalxidealist•

I think so, especially with prospecting. Take a long break from cold calling and watch the struggle begin.

4
tizjismee•

A lot of sales is commitment. Coldcalling sucks. But by the time you have got through the first few calls, it comes back to you. The same can be said for f2f and video calls. Once you get back into it and you choose to make the most of your time, you will pick it up again. In saying that, toxic is toxic. If I were in your shoes I would put some effort into booking interview rather than lead generation.

2
JA-868•

Good fucking question. It’s been my favorite in a while!

I have a friend who took a giant break in between sales jobs. We are talking about almost 2 years. He lived off his huge commission checks and just traveled, hanged out, played video games, exercised. When he got back, it was evident his sales acumen was a bit off. He wasn’t as sharp, confident, or at the pace of output that he had before. Once a great interviewer, he wasn’t getting past the first interview stage for 2 months. And the job gap wasn’t an issue since he had business owner friends who were cool with him adding that he worked during that period.

He said he was trying hard and was passionate about it. It just wasn’t producing. Took him about 4 months, 50+ companies interviewing him, before landing a single job. Then about a good 6 month ram up.

He told me never to take such a long break without doing anything to hone your sales skills.

1