Track Selling System: Step 3 - Agreement on Need
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[00:00:00] Will: Hello, everyone, and welcome back to the Track Selling System podcast. I'm Will, and today, we're diving into one of my favorite topics, Step Three, Agreement on Need. Now, if you've ever had that aha moment with a client where you know you're on the same page, you know just how powerful that can be.
[00:00:19] Will: In today's episode, Jason and Marissa are going to walk us through this crucial step in the Track Selling System.
[00:00:25] Will: It's that moment when we move from just listening to truly understanding. And it can make all the difference in a sale. Agreement on Need isn't about pitching or convincing. It's about showing our prospects that we get them. We're here to talk partnership, not pushiness. And this step is a game changer.
[00:00:44] Will: So, grab a coffee, put on your headphones, or turn up the sound, and let's see how deep understanding can take your relationships, both in sales and beyond, to a whole new level. You won't want to miss this one.
[00:01:01] Jason: Ever get that feeling like you're talking to someone and they just totally get you?
[00:01:04] Marissa: Oh yeah.
[00:01:05] Jason: So they understand exactly what you need, what you're all about.
[00:01:10] Marissa: That is a powerful feeling.
[00:01:11] Jason: Yeah. And that's what we're going to dive into today, Agreement on Need. It's this, uh, this game changing step in the Track Selling System.
[00:01:20] Marissa: Yeah. You know, it's amazing how such a simple concept can totally transform the way you interact when you're selling. It's not about some sort of manipulation or anything like that. It's about really truly understanding someone. And building that trust.
[00:01:34] Jason: Exactly. And, you know, that's what we're all about here.
[00:01:37] Jason: Right. Getting rid of those pushy sales tactics and creating win win situations for everybody. Absolutely. So for those of you who are just joining us for the first time, uh, Track Selling is this awesome system.
[00:01:49] Marissa: Yeah.
[00:01:50] Jason: For building that authentic connection between a salesperson and a prospect.
[00:01:54] Marissa: And Agreement on Need is the third step in this system.
[00:01:58] Marissa: Okay. And this is where you take everything you've learned in the first two steps, the approach and the qualification. And you basically crystallize it all into this powerful summary statement.
[00:02:08] Jason: So we spent some time with the prospect. You've asked insightful questions. Right. Dug deep into their needs and desires.
[00:02:14] Marissa: You've been listening.
[00:02:16] Jason: No way.
[00:02:16] Marissa: Now this is where you prove you've been listening. You really understand their situation.
[00:02:21] Jason: Okay.
[00:02:21] Marissa: By summarizing everything and hitting all those key points that resonated with them.
[00:02:27] Jason: And this is more than just spitting facts back to them, right?
[00:02:29] Marissa: Absolutely. It's
[00:02:30] Jason: about showing them that you get it.
[00:02:32] Marissa: It's about weaving it all into a story that really speaks to their goals and their challenges.
[00:02:37] Jason: Okay, so is this where that magic phrase comes in? Yes. The one that can make or break the deal?
[00:02:42] Marissa: This is it.
[00:02:43] Jason: Okay, tell me.
[00:02:44] Marissa: So the source material highlights the impact of starting your summary with, as I understand it, you are looking for something that will, and then you fill in the blank with a really concise summary of their needs based on everything you've gathered.
[00:02:58] Jason: Okay, so it's like you're handing them a mirror and it's reflecting back to you all their hopes and dreams.
[00:03:03] Marissa: Exactly.
[00:03:04] Jason: I love it.
[00:03:04] Marissa: And this phrase, it does so much heavy lifting.
[00:03:08] Jason: I bet.
[00:03:09] Marissa: First of all, it subtly shifts the power dynamic. You're not dictating anything. You're inviting collaboration. It shows the prospect you're not just trying to push a product. Right. You're truly invested in finding a solution that really works for them.
[00:03:24] Jason: And it probably really disarms them too. Yes. Instead of feeling like they're being sold to, they feel understood.
[00:03:29] Marissa: Exactly. It creates a sense of partnership, which is so crucial for building that trust and rapport.
[00:03:35] Jason: Right.
[00:03:36] Marissa: It's like saying, Hey, we're in this together. Yeah. Let's find the best solution for you.
[00:03:40] Jason: Okay. I am hooked.
[00:03:41] Marissa: Good.
[00:03:42] Jason: So walk me through an example.
[00:03:43] Marissa: Okay.
[00:03:43] Jason: How would this work in a real sales interaction?
[00:03:47] Marissa: Let's go back to that example from the source material with Geri, the travel agent, and Dick, her prospect, who wants to plan a family trip to Hawaii.
[00:03:56] Marissa: Remember, Geri really took the time to uncover Dick's needs. He wanted a vacation package that worked for everyone in the family.
[00:04:05] Jason: The whole family.
[00:04:06] Marissa: From his love of fishing to his daughter's passion for the beach.
[00:04:09] Jason: And crucially, he had a budget.
[00:04:12] Marissa: Right, he had a budget of $5,000.
[00:04:13] Jason: Okay, so how does Geri use this magic phrase to summarize all that and nail that Agreement on Need step?
[00:04:22] Marissa: Okay, well, instead of just listing off all of Dick's wants, Geri creates this carefully worded summary statement. She might say something like this. "As I understand it, you are looking for something that will allow you to enjoy some deep sea fishing while your son explores the coral reefs and your daughter can relax on the beach. You also mentioned that finding activities for your teenage son is important and of course all of this needs to fit within your budget of $5,000. Is that correct?
[00:04:48] Jason: Wow, she really painted a picture there.
[00:04:50] Marissa: Right.
[00:04:50] Jason: I can practically feel the Hawaiian breeze.
[00:04:52] Marissa: Exactly.
[00:04:53] Jason: But more importantly, Dick feels like she's really listened to him.
[00:04:56] Marissa: Yes. She's demonstrated empathy and a genuine desire to find the perfect fit.
[00:05:01] Jason: And that simple. Is that correct at the end? That's brilliant. It's not just a formality, is it?
[00:05:07] Marissa: No, it's strategic. It's inviting the prospect to participate in the process.
[00:05:13] Jason: Okay.
[00:05:13] Marissa: Confirm your understanding and feel like they have a voice.
[00:05:16] Jason: This is amazing. I never realized how important it is to summarize someone's needs like that.
[00:05:23] Marissa: It's powerful. And the best part is this approach.
[00:05:27] Jason: Yeah.
[00:05:28] Marissa: It's not just for sales.
[00:05:29] Jason: Oh, really?
[00:05:30] Marissa: It works in any situation where you want to build understanding and rapport.
[00:05:35] Jason: That's interesting.
[00:05:36] Marissa: Yeah.
[00:05:36] Jason: I like it.
[00:05:37] Marissa: Yeah. So, we'll continue this after the break.
[00:05:39] Will: Hey folks, thanks for tuning in. Making sense so far? Reaching an Agreement on Need sums up everything you've done in the first two steps and sets the stage for the next four steps in the Track Selling System. If you're new to Track Selling, we've got plenty of ways to get you up to speed and help you actually enjoy sales training.
[00:06:00] Will: And if you're a workshop grad, guess what? We haven't been sitting still. We've spent the last few years crafting tools to refresh, reinforce, and retain those skills. Because who couldn't use a little help now and then, right? Drop a note to Ron or Mike, the co founders, at [email protected] or check us out at www.tracksellinginstitute.com. We're here to help.
[00:06:28] Will: Now back to Jason and Marissa as they dive deeper into Step 3, Agreement on Need.
[00:06:37] Marissa: Now, you might be wondering what happens after you deliver that carefully crafted summary statement.
[00:06:42] Jason: Yeah, what happens next?
[00:06:44] Marissa: Well, the prospect's response can kind of go a few different ways.
[00:06:47] Jason: Okay.
[00:06:47] Marissa: And each one needs a slightly different approach.
[00:06:50] Jason: Alright, so let's say Dick, our Hawaiian vacation enthusiast, responds with a resounding yes.
[00:06:59] Jason: That's exactly it. Perfect. What happens next?
[00:07:01] Marissa: That's the best case scenario.
[00:07:02] Jason: Okay.
[00:07:03] Marissa: You've nailed it.
[00:07:03] Jason: Right.
[00:07:04] Marissa: You truly understand their needs. You've built that solid foundation of trust.
[00:07:08] Jason: They feel seen and heard. Exactly.
[00:07:09] Marissa: Exactly. You've given them that aha moment
[00:07:13] Jason: where
[00:07:13] Marissa: they feel understood.
[00:07:14] Jason: Yeah, like you've unlocked the door to a much smoother sales process.
[00:07:19] Marissa: Absolutely. The shared understanding really paves the way for a more positive and productive conversation moving forward.
[00:07:26] Jason: But what if they agree with the summary?
[00:07:28] Marissa: Okay.
[00:07:29] Jason: But there's a catch.
[00:07:30] Marissa: Alright.
[00:07:30] Jason: You know, the source material mentioned something about agreement without a need.
[00:07:35] Marissa: Yes.
[00:07:35] Jason: What does that mean?
[00:07:36] Marissa: So this is where things can get a little tricky.
[00:07:39] Jason: Okay.
[00:07:39] Marissa: Imagine Dick saying, Yes, that's exactly the kind of vacation I want, but my current travel agent already offers that. He's confirming that you understand his needs. Right. But there's no real need for your services because he's already getting what he wants.
[00:07:54] Jason: So he's basically saying, Great job understanding me, but I'm good.
[00:07:59] Marissa: Exactly.
[00:07:59] Jason: Okay. And
[00:08:00] Marissa: this is a really critical point for any salesperson. Yeah. If the prospect agrees with your summary.
[00:08:06] Jason: Uh huh. But
[00:08:07] Marissa: doesn't actually need your product or service. You got to shift gears.
[00:08:11] Jason: So do you just give up and move on to the next prospect?
[00:08:14] Marissa: Not necessarily. It's a signal to go back to step two of the Track Selling System.
[00:08:19] Marissa: Okay. Qualification. Okay. You got to dig a little deeper, ask more questions and see if there are any unmet needs or pain points that their current solution isn't addressing.
[00:08:30] Jason: So it's like hitting rewind.
[00:08:31] Marissa: Yes.
[00:08:32] Jason: Going back and revisiting those questions.
[00:08:34] Marissa: Exactly.
[00:08:35] Jason: Looking for a gap, an opportunity where your product or service can really shine.
[00:08:39] Marissa: Maybe Dick's current travel agent is great at planning those relaxing beach vacations.
[00:08:44] Jason: Okay.
[00:08:44] Marissa: But they're not so good at organizing the adventure activities. And
[00:08:47] Jason: that's what Dick wants for his son.
[00:08:49] Marissa: Exactly. So you can reposition your offering to highlight those unmet needs.
[00:08:54] Jason: Yeah.
[00:08:54] Marissa: And show how you can provide a more comprehensive solution.
[00:08:58] Jason: Okay, so what if Dick just flat out disagrees with the summary?
[00:09:02] Marissa: Okay.
[00:09:02] Jason: And says, That's not what I'm looking for at all.
[00:09:05] Marissa: Alright, well, surprisingly, disagreement in this step isn't actually a failure. Oh,
[00:09:10] Jason: really?
[00:09:10] Marissa: It's an opportunity. It's a chance to fine tune your understanding.
[00:09:14] Jason: Okay. And
[00:09:15] Marissa: make sure you're both on the same page.
[00:09:17] Jason: So, instead of getting defensive, you view it as valuable feedback.
[00:09:21] Marissa: Absolutely.
[00:09:22] Jason: Okay.
[00:09:22] Marissa: If the prospect disagrees,
[00:09:24] Jason: Yeah.
[00:09:25] Marissa: It just means you need to listen even more carefully.
[00:09:28] Jason: Okay.
[00:09:28] Marissa: Ask clarifying questions and adjust your summary.
[00:09:31] Jason: So it's all about collaboration.
[00:09:33] Marissa: Yes.
[00:09:33] Jason: Finding that sweet spot.
[00:09:35] Marissa: Exactly. Where
[00:09:35] Jason: their needs and you're offering align.
[00:09:38] Marissa: It's like a dance. Ooh.
[00:09:40] Jason: I like that. You're
[00:09:41] Marissa: constantly adjusting your steps to match your partner's rhythm.
[00:09:44] Jason: Gotta stay in sync.
[00:09:45] Marissa: Exactly. And just like in dance communication, and a willingness to adapt are key.
[00:09:51] Jason: Okay, so last scenario. What if the prospect gets so excited by your summary that they're ready to buy right then and there, before you've even finished the rest of the Track Selling System?
[00:10:02] Marissa: That sounds like a dream.
[00:10:04] Jason: Right. But I have a feeling you're going to tell me there's more to it. You're
[00:10:07] Marissa: right.
[00:10:08] Jason: Okay.
[00:10:08] Marissa: While it might seem counterintuitive, it's super important to complete the entire Track Selling System.
[00:10:14] Jason: Really? Even when they're ready to sign on the dotted line?
[00:10:17] Marissa: Yes, because rushing through those remaining steps can actually lead to buyer's remorse later on.
[00:10:25] Marissa: Remember, the Track Selling System isn't just about closing deals. It's about building those strong, lasting relationships with customers who are genuinely happy.
[00:10:34] Jason: So, it's not just a quick win.
[00:10:35] Marissa: No, it's about long term satisfaction and loyalty.
[00:10:38] Jason: So, by taking the time to walk through each step, you're showing them the value.
[00:10:42] Jason: You're committed to finding the perfect solution.
[00:10:44] Marissa: Exactly, and that builds trust.
[00:10:46] Jason: Okay.
[00:10:47] Marissa: It makes the prospect feel confident and informed.
[00:10:50] Jason: Like building a house on a solid foundation.
[00:10:52] Marissa: I love that analogy. You
[00:10:53] Jason: don't cut corners even if it means delaying the move in date.
[00:10:56] Marissa: Right, you want to make sure it's built to last.
[00:10:58] Jason: Exactly, and taking the time to complete the Track Selling System is like that.
[00:11:02] Marissa: Yes, it sets the stage for a strong and mutually beneficial relationship.
[00:11:07] Jason: I like it.
[00:11:08] Marissa: Good.
[00:11:08] Jason: Okay, so let's recap.
[00:11:10] Marissa: Okay.
[00:11:10] Jason: This deep dive into Agreement on Need.
[00:11:12] Marissa: Alright. It's
[00:11:13] Jason: all about really showing that you get it.
[00:11:16] Marissa: You understand.
[00:11:17] Marissa: Yeah,
[00:11:17] Jason: you've built a connection with the prospect.
[00:11:19] Marissa: Right.
[00:11:20] Jason: And it goes deeper than just listing facts and figures.
[00:11:23] Marissa: Absolutely. You're
[00:11:24] Jason: painting a picture.
[00:11:25] Marissa: Yes. Of
[00:11:26] Jason: how your product or service will address their specific needs and desires.
[00:11:31] Marissa: And we talked about that magic phrase.
[00:11:33] Jason: Right. As I understand it, you're looking for something that will.
[00:11:36] Marissa: Powerful stuff.
[00:11:37] Jason: Yeah. It sets the stage for a real collaboration.
[00:11:39] Marissa: Builds trust.
[00:11:41] Jason: And we also talked about how to handle. Different responses.
[00:11:44] Marissa: Right. From
[00:11:45] Jason: those enthusiastic yeses to those tricky situations.
[00:11:48] Marissa: Yeah, where there's not really a need or maybe they disagree with what you're saying.
[00:11:53] Jason: But before we wrap up.
[00:11:54] Marissa: Okay.
[00:11:55] Jason: I want to challenge our listeners.
[00:11:56] Marissa: Ooh, a challenge. I love it.
[00:11:59] Jason: This whole concept of Agreement on Need, truly understanding someone's needs and desires.
[00:12:04] Marissa: Yeah.
[00:12:05] Jason: It goes way beyond just sales. So
[00:12:07] Marissa: Truett, think about your personal relationships.
[00:12:10] Jason: Oh yeah. Yeah. Yeah.
[00:12:11] Marissa: Interactions at work, even just casual conversations with friends and family.
[00:12:15] Jason: Exactly. How often do we really stop and make sure we understand each other?
[00:12:19] Marissa: It's so easy to get caught up in our own thoughts.
[00:12:21] Jason: Yeah, to rush through conversations without truly connecting.
[00:12:25] Marissa: So here's the challenge.
[00:12:26] Jason: Okay, I'm listening.
[00:12:27] Marissa: Try applying this Agreement on Need principle to other areas of your life.
[00:12:33] Marissa: Yeah, see how it changes your communication, your relationships, and just your understanding of the people around you.
[00:12:39] Jason: What if you started a conversation with your partner by saying, As I understand it, you're feeling really stressed about work lately. Is that correct?
[00:12:49] Marissa: Or
[00:12:49] Jason: how about telling a friend, As I understand it, you're looking for a new hobby that's creative.
[00:12:54] Jason: Is that right?
[00:12:55] Marissa: It's about moving from assumptions to confirmation. From talking at someone. To talking with them. I like it. I guarantee you that taking the time to truly understand the people in your life.
[00:13:07] Jason: Yeah.
[00:13:07] Marissa: It will lead to deeper connections. I know. More meaningful conversations. Stronger relationships.
[00:13:12] Jason: So there you have it. Agreement on Need a Game Changer in sales and beyond.
[00:13:17] Marissa: Absolutely. Go out there and try it.
[00:13:18] Jason: Let us know how it goes.
[00:13:19] Marissa: We want to hear your aha moments.
[00:13:22] Jason: Until next time, happy connecting.
[00:13:24] Will: Thanks, Jason and Marissa, for that deep dive into Agreement on Need. It's such a powerful reminder that when we take the time to truly understand our prospects, we're building real partnerships. Agreement on Need isn't just about closing a sale. It's about setting the foundation for trust in long term relationships.
[00:13:46] Will: Now, if you're ready to take your track selling skills even further, we've got resources for you. Just check out the website or reach out to Ron or Mike anytime. You can find them on the homepage of our website.
[00:13:58] Will: And be sure to subscribe to this podcast series so you don't miss our next episode, where we'll tackle step four, sell the company. We'll explore why showing prospects the value and credibility of your company can be a pivotal turning point in the sales process.
[00:14:14] Will: Until next time, keep connecting, keep understanding, and keep learning.
[00:14:18] Will: Good luck and good selling.