As a Print Salesperson, You Can Overcome the 'Imposter Syndrome', Part 2

But wait, there’s more…

I have a confession to make. While I believe myself to be a good judge of my own mood/needs, I am a lousy judge of my own content. I’ll create a tip, a blog, or a column and think, “Man! That’s some good stuff!” but then … crickets. No comments. No feedback.

Fast forward ...

I will be under deadline and need, say, a blog quickly. Scanning my desk for some clue as to what I might write about, I throw something against the wall that, well, does not instill the same level of pride shall we say?

But this time there is a different reaction...

“Hey, Bill. That was great! I thought I was the only person who felt that way.”

“Thanks for your piece. It really hit home.”

Such is the case (and yes, these are two of the actual emails I received) when I posted a blog back in November regarding the so-called Imposter Syndrome — that feeling you don’t belong in your role of sales, especially felt when calling on a large account. I received a torrent of messages.

What’s more …

Ever since then, I have seen or heard that phrase over and over again. Either it is on a lot of peoples' minds or I am just more aware now than I was before that this is a thing.

All that said, now what do you do about it? I thought I’d offer up a few thoughts on the subject:

1. Be curious. Okay, so you don’t think you belong. But did you ever consider the fact this might be a good thing? For example, you bring a fresh pair of eyes and a fresh perspective to any sales situation. You might ask questions no one has asked in, well, ever. There might be a new way of doing something and your toddler-level sales curiosity could be just the thing needed for someone to say, “I don’t know why we do it that way. Let’s find out.”
2. Get smart. Okay, so you don’t think you belong. But knowledge is power. So, do some research on your products and services, and learn about the technology. And research the client; study their website, Google the trends in their world. Your confidence tank will fill with every tidbit of information.
3. Own it. Okay, so you don’t think you belong. Don’t shy away from it. Embrace the feeling and see it as an opportunity. If you ask people for help, they will generally give it. So, don’t be afraid to say, “I’m new to all of this.” You’ll be surprised at the reaction.

Like many things in life, obstacles can stop you if you let them. This is a powerful feeling, but you can harness it and actually benefit.

One final thought … you are not the only one who thinks this way! Don’t be surprised if you learn the client feels like an imposter!

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