It Used To Be ‘Home Is Where The Heart Was’

A person who makes his or her living working in people’s homes has a special perspective on human nature. This may not be as appropriately said of a trades person who, perhaps, comes in only to change a filter or clean the carpet. But an in-home salesperson, who may spend several hours ‘visiting’ with a family on their home turf (their home) learns a lot in each and every one of those encounters. People typically let their guards down and are more at ease, open and forthcoming while in the comfortable surroundings of their own places.

This feeling of ease on the homeowner’s part gives an astute salesman or woman a distinct advantage. The object of his or her visit is to make a sale. For this to occur, it’s best that the prospect feel comfortable and at ease. There are definite methods to accomplish this, but for a salesman to be sitting with the prospect in armchairs near the fire or at the kitchen table with a cup of coffee is a big first step.

Sincerely paying the homeowner a compliment about something particularly unusual or nice in the house is a good tactic. Seeing a beautiful quilt set that looks hand-made could be a good focus point. People appreciate it when you notice their things, especially when it’s one of their own creations. Remember, though… Sincerity is an important ingredient here.

If your product line includes bedding it might be appropriate to mention that one of your best moving items is the ‘king quilt‘ but that, compared to the hand-made version previously mentioned, your’s seems inferior. The prospect will be struck by your honesty and, most likely, open to your suggestions about possibly purchasing other items you’re currently offering. Making a friend can often equate to making a sale.

Some people seem to have a built-in pre-conceived idea about salesmen — especially if they’re the in-home kind. They may be thought of as door to door peddlers who are only out for a buck. A good and sincere salesperson, however, realizes that a completed sale is only good when both parties benefit.

In-home sales was once a popular way for companies to sell their products, including everything from encyclopedias to cookware. Brushes, vacuum cleaners and insurance policies were also often sold ‘at the kitchen table’. Today, with the proliferation of multi-level companies where distributors sell to their friends, neighbors and relatives, in-home sales are again on the rise.

A new, significantly strong force directing peoples’ buying habits is the Internet. This method of purchase is easy. Convenient and can be accomplished right from home (but without the need for a visit from an in-home salesperson). Technology has caused things to come full-circle. Welcome to the new millennium!