The Efficio Team is noticing that there has been a lot of change in personnel in media sales at the end of last year and the start of this one. Some is consolidation, but some is due to changes in ownership and/or upper management. You have probably noticed it, too. People are reaching out to you through Linked In. You get calls from colleagues “just touching base” or wanting to let you know about their change in circumstance. Or, maybe you are called to a staff meeting to introduce you to the new GM, GSM or owner.
Having lived through all of those scenarios, and being on both sides – the caller and the one introduced, as well as the one being asked for help and shaking hands with my new boss – I have a message:
You will live through this.
The sun will come out tomorrow; this, too, shall pass; and when one door closes another opens.
Shake off the nerves of “Will I have my job? Will I have the same status?” and keep your negative attitude in check. Instead, focus on how you want to present yourself (and, word to the wise, no new boss embraces the person who is glaring with their arms crossed). For those of you who were part of the “restructuring” and may be on the outside trying to get something else in media sales, know that you can. Show your strengths. And the first strength comes from your attitude. Relax, think the best, and prepare to show who you are and what you can do.
But those of you in media sales who have Efficio or any other CRM can have a head start. While you would love to think the new folks surely know who you are, you have no idea what they know about you. So, introduce them to YOU. Prepare your personal introduction – who YOU are. Have a few solid facts about your performance ready for when you get that audience with your new boss or potential new employer. How long have you been in media sales? By what percent or dollars did you grow your account list in the last year or six months? What key piece of business were you able to close recently? What are your top strengths – are you an idea person, automotive specialist, or have solid relationships in the community?
Use your CRM and other tools to learn where you shine and give value. New bosses want performers, not prima donnas. It may feel like you are starting again, and, frankly, you are. But you rose to the top with your talent and skills and confidence before. You will again. Get ready, use your smile, and keep moving forward.
You will live through this.