Every manag e r should spend time with sales representatives to help them identify their wants and to determine th e means by which to satisfy those wants. You can make objectives real, live, and vital by un d ertaking these five st e ps.
First make objectives specific and definite and commit them to writing. For e xample, “Increase sales by 12 percent by December 31” or “Make X number of calls.” The goals should be reasonable, and they should be set with the person's participation. Prioritize goals so that the person is not overwhelmed into passivity. One oth e r note: Give your staff advance notice of goal-setting meetings so thy can collect the i r t houghts. And do provide essential information on changing equ i pment, functions, staff, products, and services that could affect objectives.
Second, set a deadline for the accomp l ishment of each objective. After all, an objective is only a hope until a definite date for its achievement has been set.
Third, agree on methods and t e chniqu e s, carefully adjusting them to each person's ability.
Fourth, break down each goal into intermediate objectives – by year, month, week, and even day, and by activity (calls, interviews, new prospects, etc.). Your job is to help, instruct, and troubleshoot. You are the coach – stay off the field except for demonstrating the plays.
Fifth, put people on the spot by publicizing their objectives. Putting pressure i n their self-respect leads inexorably to achievement because people end to do what others whose opinions they value expect of them. |