During a recent review with my students of “Secrets of Selling to the Affluent Traveler”, we were discussing the impact that a good business coach or adviser can have on their success.

According to a study on LinkedIn, the return (ROI) for this service averages 7x the investment. In other words, for every $1000 you invest in quality coaching, you can expect an incremental increase of at least $7000! This seems to validate a quote attributed to old Ben Franklin, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”

One student asked, “With so many coaches, both independent or employed by host and consortia, all claiming to be the expert – from sales, marketing, groups, social media, newsletters, storytelling (it’s the latest trend), and more. How do you…

I once was asked to improve the already admirable selling skills of two-dozen professional (incoming) telemarketers. My challenge was to help telephone call-specialists develop meaningful relationships during a single phone call. The ideal scenario would have this initial call resulting in future business. This is what is known as a tough assignment.

Was it even possible? What could I have suggested, recommended, or shared with these people that could result with an attractive financial outcome?

I recalled a number of my personal experiences, and remembered how some calls with strangers seemed effortless while other conversations with faceless voices managed to raise my blood…