They Just Don't Get It...Sometimes Neither Do I

I just left a board meeting where the topic of discussion was the continued employment of a sales representative. It was generally acknowledged a rep was necessary, but there is some question as to whether the current person is the right person for the job.

"We need a superstar!" was the sentiment around the table. Then the discussion turned to compensation. As a salesperson for most of my career, I know you don't get, and keep, a "superstar" without offering "superstar compensation." And a good salesperson is worth every penny.

But, for some reason, those around the table thought they could find someone willing to do the work inexpensively. I guess people believe anybody can sell... Believe me, a great salesperson will make his own money if you provide him with product and delivery, but you have to be prepared to write big commission checks. Think about it, the more he makes, the more you're making. What's tough about understanding that?

It's like voiceovers, you may have to pay me more than some others, but you'll get delivery and quality...guaranteed. What's so hard about understanding that? Yet people are always trying to get me to "deal" (and by deal, they mean "do it for less" without any concessions on their part).

A professional takes less time and provides superior results ( see my client testimonials at http://www.smooth-male-voiceover-talent.com/ , or recommendations at http://www.linkedin.com/in/billsharp ) and actually saves the client money.

The same is true of any sales pro...in the long run, a pro will make you more money than trying to save a buck on an untrained, untested, rookie.

All that being said, I guess I should pay better attention to my own advice when I complain about the fees I pay agents for bringing me work. They get the bucks because they bring me more than my fair share of work. What's good for the goose...