Being a salesman at Lowe’s
Back when I was a store associate at Lowe’s, selling merchandise was my primary task. I worked in the outdoor decor and equipment section, so we had quite a few customers coming to the store, especially during the summer season. And it was cool to interact with the customers and find what they were looking for.
Sales are where a person is helping another person decide whether a product is the right fit for them and their company. The best salesmen can listen to the customer and find what they are looking for instead of the salesman doing all the work. Sales are essential to the business as they are what allows the company to continue to earn money and customers.
The typical entry-level sales job for a tech startup company is going to be the SDR (sales development representative) position. Working at Lowe’s has given me a lot of experience in sales that will translate very well to an SDR position. Some of these skills that I have learned include seeking out the customer, listening to what the prospect is looking for, and strong communication skills. Listed below are how these traits were exemplified through my experience at Lowe’s.
Seeking out the customer
This is a simple one. I would find the customers that would be looking longingly at the products displayed to see if they are interested. In this context, all I would have to do is to engage them and ask if there is anything that I can help them with, and usually, that was the best way to secure a prospect.
Listening to what the prospect is looking for
It always helps when listening to the prospect speak about what they are looking for and their concerns, because I can guide them to find the best product that fits them and their budget. Key questions to ask them to find the best option would include:
•What type of grill do you have liquid propane or natural gas?
•Do you need a four-cycle or two-cycle machine?
•What is the size of your yard?
•How many people do you have in your family?
Good communication Skills
Taking on communication skills at Lowe’s can be as simple as not letting something slip through the cracks. When someone orders something at Lowe’s it is the salesman’s job to follow through with the customer and let them know of any information that is vital to their purchase.
Such information can include:
- Telling them that the product they requested is a special order and will be communicated when it arrives at the store.
- Communicating that all grills have free assembly
- Telling them assembly approximately takes two business days
- They can have their product delivered at a minimum of three business days.
If you think you have what it takes to be an amazing SDR, it is critical to develop these skills.
One of the best ways to get ahead, as I have learned, is to find a mentor that can show you the ropes and make you a better salesman. I have also used google and youtube to find better sales techniques.
Sales is one of the most fun and competitive environments in the workplace, and I am positive that the skills I have developed at Lowes, will translate very well to an SDR position.
