Making a List and Checking it Twice -- even three or four times!

There is one tried and true way to reduce stress: lists.  At the end of the work day, make a list of what you want to accomplish tomorrow.  Review the list throughout the day.  Psychologists have proven that lists reduce stress.  The danger with lists of things to do is that they become too long.  The list should be what absolutely has to get done that day.  Five items is great; ten items is the maximum.

When a salesperson is making a call on a customer, the effective salesperson makes a list of the customer's needs.  The salesperson listens before talking.  Asks questions, and makes a list.  What does he need to do to get this customer's business?  Always listening; always asking questions; always making notes to turn into a todo list.

What is a salesperson NEVER doing in the presence of a customer?  Looking at his cellphone.  If there is a mortal sin of sales, it is that.  Pay absolute attention to the customer and his needs; make a list of what you need to do to capture this customer's business; and then DO IT.  Just do it.