It’s a serious question. Are you passionate or persuasive? Both, when used correctly, are beneficial characteristics. But one absolutely trumps the other when it comes to long term success of a business, specifically when selling products and services.
Persuasive is defined as being “good at persuading someone to do or believe something through reasoning or the use of temptation.”
Passionate is defined as ”showing or caused by strong feelings or a strong belief.”
Persuasive salespeople seem to make quick sales, but their customers do not often rebuy.
Passionate salespeople seem to take a little longer to make sales, but their customers will buy from them over and over again as needs arise.
Persuasive salespeople seem to have a great way with words.
Passionate salespeople seem to speak from their heart.
Persuasive salespeople seem to miss out on customer referrals.
Passionate salespeople seem to have referrals fall in their lap.
Persuasive salespeople seem to burn out.
Passionate salespeople seem to build up.
My list isn’t exhaustive, or definite. There are exceptions to every rule, and this rule is no exception.
I do believe that there is a lot of passion missing from the market. I am saddened by this, because passion is what caused some of the greatest achievements and successes this world has ever known. If I had to pick one, passion would win every single time.
How about you?