Have You Found the Right Fit?

For the most part, there is no such thing as a good or a bad salesperson. Only one in the right or wrong system.

You can possess all the capabilities you need to succeed in sales. And still come up short.

Much of your success will depend on the circumstances you put yourself in.

In the same way that companies struggle if they haven’t found the right Product Market Fit, you have to find the sales situation that is the right fit for you.

Fit is everything. And finding that fit is on you. It’s your responsibility.

You should always be proactive about putting yourself in a position that optimizes your chances of success. Make sure that you’re selling in a situation that is aligned with your strengths, values and ambitions.

Do you work for a manager that you can learn from? Or a leader that is invested in your success? If not, then it’s not the right fit.

Before you take that new job, do you feel comfortable that you understand whether you’ll be working in a supportive environment where management is committed to your development and success? If not, keep looking.

Once, in the aftermath of an acquisition, I ended up reporting to the President of the acquiring company. He was an emotionally small man who attempted to manage his senior executives through fear and intimidation (often at the top of his lungs.) He had nothing to offer to help me get better at my job. And life was too short to put up with his crap. Being proactive about leaving that company catapulted me forward in my career.

Don’t be afraid to take control of the circumstances of your career.

Ask yourself this question. When you envision where you want to be in your career, is this the job, and the boss, that is going to help you get you there?

If not, don’t settle. Be persistent and go the extra mile to find a better fit.

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