I took a course last week on a subject that I know a bit about but still learned a huge amount. I haven’t done any formal training for more than three years – as is often the case when you work for yourself – and decided I would take a day for some new learning on sales techniques and I wasn’t disappointed. 

The simple act of being in a new environment and listening to the experiences of others on the course was a huge tick in the box. Some of the insights from the other attendees were very helpful in appraising my own performance and the areas where I need to make adjustments.

The content on any course is only as good as the way it is delivered and we had an excellent trainer, Liam. He gave us all the information we needed and packed his delivery full of useful and practical examples. He also made sure the pace was just right and we had enough time to discuss problem areas and solutions.

There is always a major takeaway from the day (if not more than one) and this course was no exception. I’ve already used the key learnings in my own sales process and seen the benefits of taking a different route with my prospects. With a couple of changes to the way I communicate I’ve found myself with much more information that helps both of us involved in the process reach a better deal.

It also doesn’t have to be a hugely expensive piece of training or take place in a glamorous location. It also doesn’t have to be on a groundbreaking subject but it does need to challenge you and take you beyond your comfort zone in order for you to gain something from it. Take the plunge and book onto a course and the benefits will be tangible and instant.

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Ian Mountford is a global recruitment expert and strategy coach providing motivation and guidance to entrepreneurs, wannabe or fully-fledged. He draws from his own experience of building businesses from the ground up and spending many years helping clients to consistently achieve their goals and aspirations. Ian works with clients face-to-face and internationally.