Question

Brandi, a sales trainee, watched as her sales supervisor chatted with a prospect's secretary in a very friendly manner. Brandi felt that such behavior was inappropriate in a business situation and she did not understand why her supervisor was asking the secretary about what sports the prospect follows closely. Brandi is unable to understand her supervisor's actions. Which of the following statements would help her understand the functional value of such interactions in a sales situation?
A. Brandi's supervisor has found a meaningless way to pass the time while waiting for the appointment.B. The prospect will see Brandi and her supervisor more quickly if they prevent the secretary from getting any work done.C. Secretaries are a rich source of information about a prospect and are important for successful sales calls.D. Salespeople should talk to secretaries in order to appear to be working.E. Secretaries are poor sources of information about the prospect

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct option is (C)

Explanation:

One of the best traits of a good sales person is his ability to connect with people and seek important information related to their needs and attitude towards different products. They strike conversation informally with people to gain their confidence and build rapport.

Here, Brandi is confused as she feels it was not appropriate of her supervisor to talk to a prospect's secretary. However, she did not know that her supervisor chatted with the secretary in a friendly manner as secretaries spend most of their time with the boss and is well aware of his requirements. So, supervisor will be able to seek important information from her about the prospect that would help him convert it to sales.