The used car salesman whips out his cell phone and calls the emergency services. He gasps to the operator: “My friend is dead! What can I do?”
The operator, in a calm soothing voice says: “Just take it easy. I can help. First, let's make sure he's dead.” There is a silence, then a shot is heard.
The used car salesman's voice comes back on the line. He says: "OK, now what?"
Moral of the story. True sales professionals know that in order to succeed at sales you cannot rush things when it comes to tough situations. When you are on the road and require technical support, make sure to use plenty of confirmation questions to make sure you completely understand the instructions you are receiving through the phone. Acting on mere assumptions of what you think you hear could have very serious consequences.
"When you stop learning, stop listening, stop looking and asking questions, always new questions, then it is time to die." - Lillian Smith
