How to train cats and salespeople

“People need to realize that a cat’s indifference doesn’t mean they can’t learn cool tricks,” says celebrity animal trainer Joel Silverman. “It simply means you haven’t convinced them yet that doing so is in their best interest.”

Testing the waters

• Temperament testing is a must. Before you invest your time and energy into training, make sure you check for temperament suitability. Temperament testing allows you to identify those who by nature lack the discipline, desire or self-motivation to consistently achieve peak performance.
• Look for “hot buttons.” Unfortunately, a compensation structure based solely on commission does not address individual motivational factors; therefore, money alone does not motivate your sales force.
• A successful incentive program is a mixture of awards, recognition and peer pressure. There is tremendous power behind a timely word of praise or a handwritten note acknowledging achievement.
• Take time for rest and relaxation. All work and no play makes the cat, salesperson and trainer grumpy. Whether it is playing with a ball of yarn or enjoying a round of golf, taking time to play is important. By successfully balancing play and work, you return recharged, refreshed and ready to accomplish more.

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