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Ansell Henry is probably best known for finishing third in the second series of The Apprentice, where he starred alongside, amongst others Ruth Badger. A former National Sales Director, he now runs a successful sales consultancy. Here he gives an insight into how to forge a successful career in sales.
You currently own your own sales consultancy, tell me more about your role and the company
The business is based around helping companies improve their sales and marketing operations. We focus on training, coaching and consulting. After business situation analysis, we design and implement solutions. We assess the results continually to ensure the business is achieving growth and profitability alongside our client's objectives. I am involved in all areas of the business and work with some handpicked specialists in their field.
You have worked in the Sales Sector for 15 years - has it changed much in that time?
Some things have changed. When I started selling my Sales Manager, at our weekly meetings to 30 plus reps talked about car keys being handed in for not hitting target that was his motivation speech! His other tactic was cutting off ties for 'poor performers'. Of course the pressure to produce daily is still there as businesses have challenging objectives. Companies now will generally try to support their people first. More and more they will look to bring in outside support like my company to help them deliver results.
Are there any characteristics and skills you have that you believe are particularly suited to what you do?
I have always enjoyed working with teams. I enjoy developing people to achieve their career and personal goals. The Sales Sector as a career is about personally believing you can achieve and using knowledge and skills as tools. My business is about people and performance. Helping people understand the processes that will make them successful and helping them put those processes into everyday actions.
What is the favorite aspect of your work?
When clients or individuals tell us how beneficial the project has been.
Any recommendations for job-seekers looking at a career in sales?
Find people through friends and family who are in the Sales Sector, they will give you insights to help your decision, they will also know you and can point out the characteristics that can help or hinder you. It is important you speak to as many people to gain more than one opinion. Once you have done this and if you still want go ahead, go for it!!
What would you do, as a career, if you weren't working in Sales?
I had to give up my previous career in sports due to injury before selling so it would be some sort of sports training I guess.
Does anything keep you awake at night?
Hotel rooms, it's never like your own bed.
5 of the most exciting things currently on your desk;
If you want to find out more about Ansell Henry sales training, coaching and consulting or to register free for tips and insights through newsletters, visit the website www.ansellhenry.co.uk
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