4 Surprising Sales Lessons We Can Learn from Toddlers

Small children are known for being very messy, noisy, adventurous, destructive, and adorable. But not many people know that toddlers can actually teach us a few things about better salespeople.

If you think about it, it makes perfect sense, children are natural salespeople. They are engaging, they are curious, and they really love hugs. At times, they are messy and cranky, but so are adult salespeople! But the most important thing: They are always hard at trying to learn things and improve. So let’s take a closer look at four sales lessons you can learn from a toddler.

1. Never take “no” for an answer.

Most of us are familiar with the tantrums children have, sometimes they can be difficult to deal with. Of course, it’s not acceptable for adult salespeople to throw tantrums. But there is something that we can learn from the persistent toddlers—they don’t react to the word no.

Instead, they keep doing what most interests them and do whatever they find rewarding or fun at the moment, even when others say “no.” Being a salesperson, you’re probably used to hearing the word “no” all the time. But you shouldn't get discouraged by it. Don’t stop asking good questions, continue trying to build relationships, and always try to find the root cause for the customer's objection in order to find a way for them to say “yes.”

2. Work as a team or by yourself.

It’s always interesting to observe toddlers play in a group. They have a unique way of making friends or playing together. In this aspect, salespeople are also similar to toddlers. Certain areas of the sales process require strong teamwork, other times you will be alone, putting in some extra effort and making calls.

There are times when a salesperson needs to be versatile to build relationships which add value to an organization. For example, having a good relationship with a small business accountant can really benefit your company. On some days you need to be a team player, and on others, a superstar individual contributor.

3. It’s okay to cry sometimes, but you need to be resilient.

We aren’t trying to offend any toddlers who might be reading this, but toddlers are known to cry. Experts say that children at the age of two, cry more than we do at any other year of our lives. But there is a reason why toddlers cry so much. This is the time whey they are developing their emotional resilience and learning how to bounce back from setbacks and scraped knees.

As salespeople, we also need to be resilient and strong. The sales world is full of ups and downs. It might not be the same as falling off your bicycle or scrapping your knees, but close. Every disappointment and rejection is basically a test of your will. Will you recover and continue progressing toward your next goal?

4. Keep exploring.

One thing that all toddlers share is their curiosity and adventurous spirit. They always want to spend their time outside, climb things, run around and explore. A good salesperson will always find ways to remain optimistic and energized by their job. When you are a salesperson, each day is a brand new opportunity and a fresh start. With this mindset, you will have a bigger chance of scoring the big sale. Make every day a chance to build new relationships. Continue to push the limits and remind yourself of what you love about your job. Remember, in order to progress in life overall, we should never stop exploring. Always continue to look for ways to improve whatever it is you’re doing.