Be prepared. Know your shit. sales training increased revenue

This isn't just a cliché; it's the fundamental truth that has guides my entire life.

I love the saying "Luck is where preparation meets opportunity." 

I pride myself on my preparation. For every presentation, every client meeting, every important discussion, I invest hours in prep and planning. I never just throw some slides together and call it a day. I'm talking about deep dives into the client's business, analyzing their challenges, and crafting a tailored message that resonates with their specific needs, and practicing my entire presentation in front of some unfortunate family members otr even worse, the mirror, sometimes, 20, even 30 times prior to going in.

I anticipate potential questions and objections, and ensure every word and gesture conveys the right message.It's not just about memorizing lines; it's about internalizing the information, making it my own, and understanding it so deeply that I can adapt and respond to any situation.

There will always be some unexpected curveballs. I was presenting to a group of senior executives, and I go to present and my presentation is missing. Literally nowhere to be found. My heart skipped, and I was tempted to panic. Instead of panicking, I drew on my training, and preparation. I knew the material inside and out. I used my knowledge to weave a compelling narrative, sharing real-world examples and client testimonials to illustrate the value of our solutions. I talked and as if I was a leader not only in my space, but their space. I knew what I was talking about, and they could tell. Strictly from preparation. 

The company was impressed to say the least, as I ended up closing the deal, adding on a bunch of services, and they offered me a permanent job, which I refused, but they signed a 3-year retainer with me as a 3rd party consultant and their ongoing slaes training company so they can realize their revenue and growth goals consistently. 

I was prepared. That is all. And being prepared means knowing your shit. 

Knowing my shit allows me to think on my feet and connect with others on a real  on a human level, no matter what curveballs are thrown at me.

This experience reinforced a crucial lesson: true preparation goes beyond the superficial. It's about developing a deep understanding of your business, the customer, your subject matter, to build strong communication skills, and the mental agility to adapt and overcome difficult slaes environments, conversations, and "Curveballs".

Opportunity, on the other hand, is about being in the right place at the right time. It's about recognizing and seizing those unexpected moments, those serendipitous encounters that can open doors you never knew existed.

Here's the kicker: 

Opportunity favors the prepared.

The young entrepreneur who stumbles upon a revolutionary idea is likely someone who has spent years immersed in the industry, observing trends, and identifying unmet needs. The athlete who breaks a world record is the culmination of years of rigorous training and disciplined dedication.

Perfection, is the harmonious convergence of preparation and opportunity or Luck! 

It's about mastering your craft, honing your skills, and then seizing those unexpected moments when they arise.

This philosophy extends far beyond the realm of sales. It applies to every aspect of our lives:

• Career: Continuously learning, developing new skills, and building a strong network prepares you for unexpected career opportunities.
• Personal Life: Cultivating meaningful relationships, pursuing personal passions, and embracing new experiences increases your chances of encountering unexpected joys and fulfilling moments.
• Business: A well-prepared company, with a strong foundation, a clear vision, and a talented team, is better equipped to capitalize on emerging market trends and unforeseen opportunities.

This experience taught me that luck is not just about being in the right place at the right time; it's about being prepared to seize the opportunity when it presents itself.

The Key Stages of Luck

1. Preparation: This is the foundation of luck. It involves honing your skills, gaining knowledge, and staying informed about your industry. Preparation means being ready to act when the opportunity arises. For sales professionals, this could mean understanding your product inside out, knowing your client's business, and continuously improving your sales techniques.
2. Opportunity: Opportunities often come disguised as challenges or unexpected events. Being in the right place at the right time is crucial, but recognizing the opportunity is equally important. This requires a keen sense of awareness and the ability to connect the dots quickly.
3. Execution: When preparation meets opportunity, the next step is execution. This is where your skills and knowledge come into play. It's about taking decisive action and leveraging the opportunity to achieve your goals.

One of the biggest challenges in getting some good luck is overcoming the fear of failure. Many people miss opportunities because they are afraid to take risks. Another challenge is staying prepared in a constantly changing environment. This requires continuous learning and adaptability.

When preparation meets opportunity, the benefits can be immense. For individuals, it can lead to career advancement, personal growth, and financial success. For companies, it can result in increased revenue, market expansion, and a stronger competitive edge. For families, it can mean a better quality of life and more opportunities for future generations.

According to Malcolm Gladwell, author of "Outliers," success is often the result of a combination of hard work, timing, and the right opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of putting in the hours to master your craft, which prepares you to capitalize on opportunities when they arise.

In essence, luck is not a random occurrence but a result of meticulous preparation and the ability to recognize and act on opportunities. By focusing on these key stages, you can create your own luck and achieve perfection in your sales career and beyond. Remember, the impact of this approach extends beyond your professional life, influencing your family, company, and personal goals.

Stay prepared, stay vigilant, and seize the opportunities that come your way. Your journey to perfection starts now.

The journey to creating your own luck is a continuous cycle of preparation, opportunity, and execution. It's about having a mindset that embraces challenges as potential opportunities and views every experience as a chance to learn and grow. By staying prepared, being vigilant for opportunities, and executing with confidence, you can turn the concept of luck into a tangible strategy for success.

The power to shape your destiny lies within your hands. Trust the process, trust in your preparation, and seize any and all opportunities that come your way. In doing so, you'll not only achieve your professional goals but also inspire those around you to believe in the transformative power of preparation and opportunity.

What steps will you take today to prepare for the opportunities that lie ahead?

Join the discussion and let us know how we can help at www.innovativesellingpartners.com or on LinkedIn at Innovative Selling Partners.

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Peace!

Patrick Montgomery

CEO & Lead Sales Trainer

Innovative Selling Partners

"Sales Training for the self-aware"