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A Key to Success that Top Sales Performers Follow

Motivation| Sales| success mindset| Habits| Business Development
February 01, 2025•3 min read

In the world of sales and business development, certain principles remain timeless. I have been put to the test time and time again with this concept, and it has always paid dividends when I follow it. The simple yet powerful principle is the golden rule: treat others as you want to be treated. It's also known as the ethics of reciprocity.  Sometimes in sales, business development, and life, we can be put to the test, especially when the stakes are high: a lost sale, a difficult customer, overhearing a competitor pitching against us, or facing challenge that we may want to blame someone else for, instead of taking personal responsibility. The majority of top coaches and mentors I have learned from, across every company or industry I have worked in have this in common: they treat others as they want to be treated. When we master this concept, our interactions are genuine, respectful, and mutually beneficial. Here's how applying this simple yet profound principle can transform your business relationships and pave your way to success.

Embrace the Golden Rule in Business

1. Be Someone Others Want to Do Business With

Creating a reputation as a reliable, trustworthy, and approachable professional is invaluable. People are drawn to individuals and companies that align with these attributes. Being courteous, actively listening, and showing empathy can make you a preferred partner in business.

2. What You Put Out Comes Back to You

We have all heard of the concept of 'karma:' what we put out comes back to us in the end. Every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce your and brand's value. Keeping bridges intact by respecting every connection can result in future opportunities. Reinforcing positive interactions today might just open doors tomorrow. Make it a habit to take the high road and silence is the best revenge.

3. Maintaining Professional Boundaries

Practicing the golden rule does not mean being a pushover. It’s essential to establish clear and respectful boundaries in your business dealings. No is a complete sentence. This ensures clarity and helps in maintaining respect from your peers and clients alike.

4. Focus on Your Strengths, Not the Weaknesses of Competitors

When discussing competitors, highlight what makes you unique rather than criticizing others. This not only illuminates your strengths but also reflects your confidence and professionalism. Remember, competitors could be allies down the line, and today’s prospects might share networks with them.

Common Mistakes in Business and Sales Regarding the Golden Rule

- Burning Bridges

Avoid bad-mouthing, cutting ties, or leaving on bad terms. Even if you despise your boss or company, be professional - we all travel in small circles. I have had many tough bosses, customers, and many have come to new places of work or customer accounts in my career. Do not do or say something you will later regret. Today's closed doors might be tomorrow's open opportunities.

- Disparaging Competitors

Speaking negatively of competitors can backfire, making you appear desperate or unprofessional. Always emphasize what sets you apart instead. You never know who or what your prospects relationships are with your competition - I have seen it all in my career!

- Overstepping and Overcommitting

Overcommitting and overpromising and under-delivering creates unnecessary stress and distraction. A lack of clear boundaries can lead to misunderstandings and strained relationships. It’s crucial to respect limitations and ask for the same in return.

Incorporating the golden rule into your sales and business strategies can foster stronger relationships, greater respect, and more significant opportunities for success. By treating others with kindness and respect, you're setting the stage for others to treat you the same way, creating a cycle of positivity and growth.

Curious?

Schedule a Discovery Call

My ⭐️ Northstar: I work with leaders and teams who want to be more, make more, and sell more through simplifying the complexity of selling to achieve more success. We play 2 games in sales: the 'inner game' habits and mindset, and the 'outer game' tactics and action. The best investment you will ever make is in...yourself. This is my commitment to you, my clients, and all who attend my events!

Questions? Reply to this email and let's have a conversation.

Amy

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Amy Lemire CSP DTM works with success-driven leaders and teams who want to be more, make more, and sell more with confidence, with momentum. She is the creator of “The Best Version of You: Success Habits Breakthrough” Program. For the past 10 years, she has trained thousands of sales and business professionals on standards of excellence, and mastery of the keys to success and the ‘Sales Confidence Code.’ Her focus is on how to win the inner game of self-confidence to drive peak performance results in sales, business, and speaking, through the mastery of success habits. After spending 2 decades in business-to-business and medical sales and training, Amy founded AIM Training and Consulting International. She is a certified “Habitfinder” Leadership Coach. Amy is the author of 2 books: “From Zero to Sales Hero,” and “From Zero to Speaker Hero.” Amy was recently designated as a Certified Speaking Professional, in March 2023, by the National Speakers Association, for delivering over 300 hours of training and speaking. She is also a VISTAGE-certified speaker. Amy is a Distinguished Toastmaster, the Past President of National Speakers Association, St Louis Chapter, and a Member of the National Speakers Association. She has been recognized as a Fortune 500 top sales performer and sales trainer for over 3 decades. When she is not working you may find her at local rock concert, personal development seminar, or at home with her husband Nigel and her cat Brianna.

Amy Lemire CSP

Amy Lemire CSP DTM works with success-driven leaders and teams who want to be more, make more, and sell more with confidence, with momentum. She is the creator of “The Best Version of You: Success Habits Breakthrough” Program. For the past 10 years, she has trained thousands of sales and business professionals on standards of excellence, and mastery of the keys to success and the ‘Sales Confidence Code.’ Her focus is on how to win the inner game of self-confidence to drive peak performance results in sales, business, and speaking, through the mastery of success habits. After spending 2 decades in business-to-business and medical sales and training, Amy founded AIM Training and Consulting International. She is a certified “Habitfinder” Leadership Coach. Amy is the author of 2 books: “From Zero to Sales Hero,” and “From Zero to Speaker Hero.” Amy was recently designated as a Certified Speaking Professional, in March 2023, by the National Speakers Association, for delivering over 300 hours of training and speaking. She is also a VISTAGE-certified speaker. Amy is a Distinguished Toastmaster, the Past President of National Speakers Association, St Louis Chapter, and a Member of the National Speakers Association. She has been recognized as a Fortune 500 top sales performer and sales trainer for over 3 decades. When she is not working you may find her at local rock concert, personal development seminar, or at home with her husband Nigel and her cat Brianna.

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