Podcasts Business Sales Reinvented Personalize Stories Whenever Possible According to AnnaMarie Platt-Miller, Ep #328

Personalize Stories Whenever Possible According to AnnaMarie Platt-Miller, Ep #328

Published: Dec. 14, 2022, 8 a.m.

Every salesperson needs to be relatable. Stories are the best way to be relatable. A great narrative helps connect people and drive sales. Learning how to become a good storyteller takes experience, which only comes with practice.\xa0

AnnaMarie Platt-Miller emphasizes that the best stories are personal. But if you don\u2019t have those, borrow others\u2019 stories. Read stories. Read books. Listen to podcasts. Watch TedTalks. Do whatever you can to become a better storyteller.

Outline of This Episode
  • [1:03] Why storytelling is an important skill to have
  • [1:48] Can anyone learn to be a good storyteller?
  • [2:32] The ingredients of a great story that sells
  • [3:59] The attributes of a great sales storyteller
  • [5:00] Resources to improve your storytelling
  • [7:16] AnnaMarie\u2019s top 3 storytelling dos and don\u2019ts
  • [9:26] Why you should personalize stories when possible
The ingredients of a great story that sells

You have to ask your customer open-ended questions so they can share their story. Because until you know their story, you can\u2019t create an environment that\u2019s comfortable for both of you to share experiences so you can close your sale.

Secondly, you need to be relatable. Find common ground with your audience. Lastly, you need to solve their problems. People are buying to fill a need\u2014practical or otherwise. The stories they told you will help complete the transaction so everyone walks away happy.\xa0

AnnaMarie\u2019s top 3 storytelling dos and don\u2019ts

AnnaMarie\u2019s do\u2019s and don\u2019ts drive home her point:

  • Be sure to listen to your customer, client, and potential buyer.\xa0
  • Tell a complete story with a beginning, middle, and end.
  • Know what kind of story will appeal to your prospect (a cautionary tale, a hero\u2019s journey, etc.).
  • Don\u2019t talk over your customer. You have two ears and one mouth\u2014listen twice as much as you speak
  • Don\u2019t be quick to judge how your story is received. If you aren\u2019t sure, ask a question.
  • Don\u2019t ever argue with your customer,\xa0let them win.\xa0
Personalize stories whenever possible

10 years ago, AnnaMarie was in educational sales selling eBooks. eBooks were relatively new and people were hesitant to give up their paper books. She had to help her customers overcome the idea that no one would use them.

AnnaMarie\u2019s son had suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Because of this, he had to change the way he learned. eBooks were one of the things that helped him. She shared that story with her customer, which helped them see how the tool could work for them.\xa0

When you can share a personal story, even if it\u2019s difficult, you should. It\u2019s okay to be personal with your customers. It\u2019s okay to share your ideas and experiences and listen to them.\xa0

Resources & People Mentioned Connect with AnnaMarie Platt-Miller Connect With Paul Watts\xa0

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