How to fight burnout syndrome in sales

There is a rule in sales that the results of a sales rep are directly linked to their mental state. Business people occasionally need to stop and relax – and this applies even at moments when they may be doing well. A fluctuation in results is also typical in sales. But can you tell where the line is between a temporary bad period and burnout syndrome?

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According to the HR Director website, there are various signs typical of the sales sector, where burnout syndrome usually takes the form of a combination of some of the following symptoms:

Bad results

In sales, burnout syndrome has an immediate effect in the sense that the sales rep's results drop dramatically. This sudden fall may be both cause and effect of the burnout. Prevention: Sticking to systems, regular relaxation.

Money as the sole remaining motivation

A salesperson should have a certain liking for the product being offered and, besides financial profit, they should also be motivated by a desire to help clients find the best possible solution to their particular problem. The client should not be viewed solely as a source of money. Prevention: Genuine interest in the product, clients and developments in the market.

Lost belief in the offered solution

Every salesperson ought to find something about their offer that they believe is of good quality. If the salesperson does not trust what they are selling, something is wrong.  Prevention: Rediscovering a liking for the product, e.g. through personal use.

Loss of positive attitude

Nervousness, negative attitude, aversion towards work. These are also typical effects of burnout syndrome. Prevention: Relaxation, hobbies and positive activities.

Inability to create a future

A typical sign of burnout syndrome is the inability to create long-term goals and think about the future. A burnt-out sales rep is incapable of seeing their work in the context of a long-term vision. Prevention: Focusing on strategies and innovation, seeking new business opportunities.

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Article source HR DIRECTOR - British website for HR directors and senior HR managers
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