Keep Up!

Happy Monday!   The other day I needed to use an I-Pad app that I downloaded about a year ago.  It was a project planning tool that had all kinds of neat features to help keep me organized and on track.   Ironic.   I needed some data that I had put into it and that information was nowhere else.  I had to have it!   When I launched it, it said I needed to update to the most current version of the program.  Ok, no big deal and I expected that.  In less than year, there had been 8 updates.    After the update, I tried to launch it again.  Now it said I had to update my version of IOS.  After a bad experience, I only update my IOS (operating system) under duress and mandates.  This was a mandate.   I started the download only to find my power was at 23%.  It will only update with 50% power or you have to plug in.  I was at a Starbucks and didn't have my power cord.  I really needed that data for an upcoming call, so I asked a stranger could I borrow their power cord.  They obliged with an understanding nod and I updated my system.    An hour later, I pulled out the data I needed...exasperated and frustrated.   I love technology, but does it have to change so much and so often?  I guess it is to be expected since the industry is still in its infancy.      Did you know that you are part of the world's oldest profession?   No...not that one - sales!   For a profession that is centuries old, it is hard to believe that things change so rapidly.  Just like technology, if you don't keep up with the changing times, it is easy to be left behind.  Even the professional sellers who have great relationship building skills have to stay abreast of industry changes, new technology and current marketing approaches.   5 Things You Must Do To Ensure You Aren't Left Behind;   Look again - It is easy to get locked in to a pattern of doing business.  Selling the same products in the same way as you have the past few years.  Look at your products and industry.  Some evolutions are obvious, some are more subtle.  For example, some companies prefer online applications with digital signatures.  Have you looked to make sure you have the most recent updates?    Keep Learning - Sure your inbox is flooded with product details, updates, webinars and appeals to sell more of companies products.  Make a habit of at least scanning these alerts and dedicating a block of time each week to learning about them.  Your contracts allows you to sell, but your clients expect you to understand what you are selling.   Go deeper - Does your product have new and exciting features that would help you sell more and service your clients more effectively?  Sure, the top 2-3 benefits keep the sales going, but if you went deeper into the things your product can do you might get an extra sale or two.  Certainly sets you up as the trusted advisor and expert on your product.  You are an expert on your product, right?   Pay Attention- I just talked to an agent that submitted $3,000 in annualized commission on the wrong application.  They had not sold the company before and did not review the most recent updates.  Not only embarrassing, but left them open to losing the client and leaving them vulnerable on a decision vitally important matter - life insurance.    Stay excited - The best way to make sure you stay abreast of changes in your industry is to keep your enthusiasm for it.  People that love fashion read the magazines, the blogs and shop to keep up with industry trends and changes.  Do you love what you do?  Then it should be easy to make it a part of your life.  Excitement is contagious and helps you sell more!   I know you are selling many products and have several balls in the air and plates spinning.  To reach your goals and serve your clients you will have to add one more thing to that spinning plate...   Keep Up!   Until tomorrow, I wish you Money, Power, Success!