How Imposter Syndrome Affects Women in Sales | Melissa Oakes - 1416

Imposter syndrome is common among salespeople, and it chooses no gender. In this episode, however, let’s learn how imposter syndrome affects women in sales.

Melissa Oakes truly believes that she changes people’s lives. Although many don’t share the same thought, being able to bring people back to a time in their lives where they were happiest is a huge accomplishment. In the Hair Club, her team gets to help people feel good about themselves every day. It’s not just about the hair; it’s about what people can do for themselves to make their lives better. From having a better hair day to having a better life.

Starting Hair Club

• It started out as a Hair Club for Men where almost all the salespeople were men. Melissa was one of the first female consultants. She also shared the negative stigma of salespeople then.
• Personally, she didn’t want to become a salesperson due to that stigma.
• When she did get into sales, into a male-oriented industry, she felt like she always had to overcompensate. She felt like she needed to do things right because she had something to prove.

The Imposter Syndrome

• Imposter syndrome leaves you feeling doubtful and dealing with other negative emotions. Doubting whether what you do is enough; whether you are good enough.
• It was a challenging time for Melissa because it prompted her to take things personally.
• When she faces objections, she takes it as an attack. For men, they can just move on. The same isn’t true for women.
• Melissa always got into her own self-talks and eventually she realized that her doubts were making the sales process more about her and less about the person sitting in front of her.
• She realized that she couldn’t help other people if she remained in that state. The rejection she experienced didn’t motivate her. Instead, it piled up a lot of doubts in her head.
• Going over that state not only helps you as a salesperson, but also the people you’re trying to make an impact for.
• Melissa learned to turn that No into a Not Yet. It helped her follow up with someone and make sure that she is in contact with them, building relationships and connections with them. She learned to focus her attention on the people she’s helping and on what she could do for them.
• It’s important for new salespeople to be genuine and be authentic to themselves. Sales is about making connections so be genuine in your own way, and build connections in a way that works for you.
• Giving quality service is about finding out what the person needs from you or how your business/service/products help them.
• We need to care more and show that personal connection. We also need to celebrate the little wins because that will get you out from whatever feeling you’re in.

“How Imposter Syndrome Affects Women in Sales” episode resources

Follow Melissa Oakes on LinkedIn. Speak with Donald directly for more sales talks. Reach him via these channels: LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook about any sales concerns.

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Mentioned in this episode:

HubSpot and bluëmago | STUDIOS

HubSpot and bluëmago | STUDIOS hubpspot.com/marketers bluemangostudios.com