What is your greatest fear? Some people have a fear of heights. Others have a fear of snakes or spiders. Some fears are less physical. For instance, the fear of public speaking or asking someone out. When it comes to dangerous animals or tall buildings, the fear is pretty obvious. However, what do people ACTUALLY fear when it comes to interacting with other humans? The answer: rejection. Interestingly, this is a universal phobia. It is hard to think of anyone who doesn’t have a little bit of trepidation when it comes to interacting with others. Also, it isn’t something that just plagues introverts or those beginning in something new.
COVID-19 and Sales
If you don’t believe that everyone fears rejection, ask the salesperson about how they felt not being able to sell the way they used to because of COVID. Everyone in sales a business was terrified when more no’s started coming from people’s mouths because of the pandemic. If you were in the sales industry, you are probably reliving the experience as you read this. Is it possible to overcome these rejections and fears? It all starts with a deeper understanding of what's actually happening when you're being rejected.
Use Empathy
It is always scary when someone says no. However, you have to stop and ask yourself why they are saying no. They probably have a good reason. It can be easy to just be mad or accept the person’s rejection. However, the very objection means that you have a chance to learn how to overcome it.
Conclusion
COVID sucked for everybody, and it is easy to just sit and do nothing, paralyzed by fear. However, opportunities exist to stand head-and-shoulders above everyone else by "rejecting rejection". Many had devastating loss, but others were able to pivot to accommodate and even thrive. Problems, no matter how inconvenient they are, always bring about new solutions and business ideas. Billions are lost and won during a crisis. Businesses saved money on travel by using Zoom. Cleaning companies popped up and are now super successful. Remember, obstacles bring new opportunities. You just have to audit and overcome objections.
