Element Fusion

David Archibald has been with Element Fusion for almost two years as an Internet Consultant.  I asked David a few questions about his experience and his work, and here are a few of his responses.

Me: How did you get started in your sales career and tell us about your experience?

David: I first started in sales at about 13 when I had to get yards to mow. I worked solely from referral and ended up with more yards than I wanted to mow. Once I realized I wanted to pursue a career in sales, I took a summer job with a company and sold pots and pans door to door. I tell you what, that taught me the value of prospecting and got me over the fear of making a cold call. Thoughout college, I had a variety of sales jobs including retail. After college, I stayed in retail for a brief time and then quickly moved into the financial services industry selling money. After about 3 years in this industry, I went to work for a gift-ware manufacturer and sold luggage and travel accessories to clients all over the country. I handled national accounts, such as Dillard's and TJ Max, as well as local retailers.

Me: What is your favorite thing about being an Element Fusion internet consultant?

David: The best thing about being an EF consultant is the variety of customers I get to work with. I have a wide range of experience and I get to use the breadth of my knowledge when I talk to clients and prospects. Focusing on finding solutions for the client is a lot of fun and it doesn't matter what product or service the client or prospect provides, we can help. I also learn more every day as I talk to companies. By discussing their challenges, I learn more about the business climate they are working in and what they have to accomplish to be successful.

Me: What makes you unique in the way you go about meeting a customer's needs?

David: Questions, questions, questions. I spend very little time talking about what we provide and spend as much time as possible learning about the client. One mouth and two ears -- I try to use them proportionately. The better I understand the client's issues, the better our solution will be.

Me: Can you share with us one of your best "sales tips"?

David: Smile! I actually get this from Dale Carnegie's human relations principles (it is number 5). When we show joy and friendliness it puts people at ease and makes us someone they are willing to talk to. You can even tell over the phone if someone is smiling. Think about it, the tone of voice changes and the tempo and overall message is affected by a smile. Besides, our job is so much fun there is no reason not to smile :-)

Me: Anything else you would like to share?

David: What more would you like to know? (see number 3)