Well, let me tell you, kids these days are pretty awesome. They’re smart, savvy, confident, fast learners, organized, motivated, fun and easy to teach.
What can I say one of these bright kids is near and dear to me, he’s my youngest and I never thought he would be tackling this task with as much gusto and enthusiasm as he has. It all started with one of my latest projects. I set out to create a local product that will be of high value and easy to sell in the cash strapped Vancouver market. I teamed up with a local entrepreneur and we spent 5 weeks calling on local businesses to either give away something for free or give away a nice discount to local residents. You can have a quick peak here .
After the product was created we needed some enthusiastic ambassadors to go out into the market and make a splash. My youngest son had been watching me from the beginning of product development and we had spoken about each of the participating vendors, some with brand name recognition like Boston Pizza, Subways, Domino’s and Fat Burger to name a few while others were only known locally or just getting started.
He began by asking questions about how we would sell the product and I made mention that I thought it might be something he could do well at if he were willing to get off his computer and go out to talk to people. I explained that based on my observation over the years he can be pretty dog gone persuasive. I also mentioned that I would go out with him to get things started and help with his sales conversation if need be.
Although I know he was nervous and still quite young just three months shy of his 14th birthday, I was sure he could do well for himself.
Do well, he certainly did. On his third attempt “BOOM” he made his first sale! See picture above with his big grin. That was only four short days ago and a lot has happened since then.
- He’s mastered both door-to-door and intercept marketing (approaching supermarket shoppers as they entered the store) techniques on how to create quick rapport in his introduction.
- He’s learned how to get his product in people’s hands before they can give him a polite excuse and say “not interested.”
- He’s learned how important it is to read and match his potential customers body language.
- He’s learned how to build the conversation to an impulsive close.
- He’s learned that “no” is not to be taken personal and that it’s just a process that brings him closer to his “yes’s”
- He’s learned that he doesn’t ever need to take a job for minimum wage considering that he’s making double that amount on his worst day. Today he made five times the minimum wage.
- He’s learned that each day he gets better and more confident and can now relax, chat and do his thing.
- Today he learned that he can sell more than one item to the same customer and double his money in an instant.
So I am happy to report that the KIDS ARE ALRIGHT! They’re just like the rest of us. We all need a compelling, fun reason to hit the marketplace and a bit of guidance and coaching to get us started and help us maintain our performance.
It’s nice to know that my son is equipped with the most valuable skill of all. The understanding that if you get up off your butt and start talking to people about your product or service then good things will start to happen. [divider style=”1″]
Dominic Kotarski – International Consultant | Author | Coach | Trainer | Speaker
Dominic Kotarski is the author of international best seller “The Making”. He writes, speaks, inspires, motivates and teaches on the most important aspects of your business including Sales, Coaching, Team building, People Management and Business Development. Get weekly access to his blog & training videos FREE by subscribing HERE!
You are as surprised as I am, his mother! Not only am I surprised about his great attitude and willingness to learn, he takes negativity in a stride! Thanks Dom for teaching Cruz a life skill! If we want to or not, we are all sales people! Each and every day we are selling! Our personality, our attitude, our product or service!
He’s an amazing spirit and very convincing when he puts his mind to doing something. He growing, learning and getting better each day. I’m very proud of our boy!
Hey Dom, I love this article you wrote. My husband and I teach teenagers and what a blessing it is to be able to spend time and work with them. I couldn’t agree with you more. Kids are alright! 🙂 You have done an awesome job teaching your baby these skills. They will serve him well for the rest of his life.
Congratulations to a great Dad and a great kid.
Terri
Thanks so much Terri, and great to hear you’re working in the noblest of careers. Where would we be without our teachers? Keep up the passion!!