To ask for tips (work related)

[typedwithcertainty]

My job role at work has changed and I now have targets placed upon me to sell a certain amount of something each month (dont want to be too specific )
My actual job role, the reason I got the job and actually what I'm good at has zero to do with selling and it's really not a skill of mine. I just have no confidence and look at it so negatively and it really stresses me out.

Does anyone have any tips for me? Anyone had to deal with sales being introduced to their role when it's not their bag? How do I change my mindset and confidence? I really like my job but am beginning to resent it for this reason. The selling is a mixture of existing contacts and approaching new businesses, im just so crap at it, I've never had to work to this type of numerical target before.

Help!

I haven't been in this position but if they know you don't come from a selling background is there a training plan for you? Are you able to ask your manager if you can job shadow people doing it now so you can see how it should be done? I think you need to make it clear this is something you need help with and at the very least they should offer you a structured training plan if your role has changed.

Talk to your manager and go through what you find difficult and how you can overcome each thing with their help. I think if you have practical steps to follow and break it down a bit you will feel better.

Away from your job could you read some books on being confident at work? I used to listen to Paul McKenna's confidence CD and found that helped. There are lots of books on this subject so there's bound to be a method that suits you.

Finally try to see it as an opportunity to expand your skills. You might not enjoy it but it is good to be pushed outside of your comfort zone at work and you might find you are good at it. And don't forget, once you have done a few sales you will get used to it and find what works for you.

Approaching new businesses just be friendly and open, make sure you know exactly what it is you are selling and be enthusiastic about your product. That's all you can do really.

Don't be afraid to ask people for help and good luck!

I used to have to 'sell' store credit cards, back when I worked in a giant high street store. I actually found it surprisingly easy - apparently just asking with a nice smile on your face was enough to get people to consider it.

They were an awful product, and at 16 I was nowhere near qualified to ask adults if they'd like to get into debt for the sake of a £10 voucher.

My tip would be to just start asking though, and don't be disappointed when people say no. It takes a while for you to find a sales patter that works for you.

Another thing I'd suggest is to make sure you know everything about the product and make sure you believe in it, as that makes you a lot more convincing.