Why think like a partner

“Why do you keep saying that salespeople need ‘think like a partner’?”

Sales Director Dilemmas – Orange hat thinking

In short… because it is the simplest was to adopt a collaborative selling approach

Let’s consider this in more detail and use the six elements of ‘Partnering Intelligence’ (PQ) to consider why this is important in selling today

🔶 Ability to trust - Do you give people your trust, or do they have to earn it?

As a salesperson cultivating a mindset of trust is key

When we think like partners, we establish trust from the start, building stronger and more meaningful connections with our clients

Trust opens doors to collaboration and long-term relationships, enabling us to better understand their needs and provide tailored solutions


🔶 Win-win orientation - Do you employ a problem-solving approach that creates wins for all concerned?

Partnerships thrive on mutual benefit

As salespeople thinking like a partner means thinking win-win

We strive to uncover solutions that address the needs of both our clients and our own organisation to achieve sustainable success and long-term partnerships built on shared value


🔶 Comfort with interdependence - Can you allow your partners to accomplish their assigned activities, even if they don't do it the way you would?

Sales success lies in collaboration and shared goals

Thinking like a partner involves recognising the unique strengths and approaches of our clients, empowering them to excel in their areas of expertise

Focusing on collective success rather than micromanaging every detail, drives a culture of mutual support and respect


🔶 Transparency - Can you easily disclose and articulate your needs, as well as express your appreciation or disappointment?

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful partnership

Thinking like a partner requires open and honest dialogue where we can confidently express ourselves

It also means actively seeking and constructively providing feedback to build stronger relationships based on mutual understanding and continuous improvement


🔶 Comfort with change - Are you comfortable changing not just the status quo, but your own status quo?

In today's dynamic business landscape.adaptability is essential

Thinking like a partner means embracing change and continuously evolving

It requires a willingness to step out of our comfort zones, challenging ourselves to think creatively and explore new opportunities


🔶 Future orientation - Do you look to the future rather than the past in evaluating your business relationships?

Thinking like a partner means being forward-thinking

Rather than dwelling on past successes or setbacks seek to understand evolving goals and challenges

By anticipating customer needs and offering innovative solutions we can position ourselves as trusted advisors


🧡 Embracing a partnering mindset is crucial for sales success in today's dynamic business world 🧡