Confidence is a valuable trait in any career field, but it is especially essentially in a sales job. After all, as a salesperson, you are often the most important point of contact for a business and have the best opportunity to make a good impression of the products you sell. When you convey confidence, customers will trust you — and the products. But if you feel like your confidence has hit a slump, don’t worry. There are some good ways that you can build up to have more confidence, and that will have big payoffs for your sales job.

Stay Positive

Being a good salesperson is about knowing that you’re the best person to sell the products! You can have more confidence by using time tested techniques like repeating affirmations and maintaining a positive attitude. You’ve probably heard the old saying that whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right. It may be a cliché, but it’s also true. Your confidence is based in large part on your mental attitude, and you will have an easier time being successful if you believe that you can.

Know Your Products

One of the building blocks of having more confidence is understanding your job. As a salesperson, you really need to have a thorough knowledge of what you sell, inside and out. When you don’t understand your products very well, it can leave you feeling unsure of yourself because you don’t know how you can answer your potential clients’ questions. Spend a little extra time brushing up on what you sell and the company you represent.

Work for the Right Company

Believing in what you sell gives you more confidence and potential customers will pick up on it right away. Another key to having more confidence is when you believe in the company you work for. Sometimes we may not always have the luxury of having the ideal sales job, but you will have a happier time conveying enthusiasm when you know you are working for a good business.

Improve Your Speaking Skills

Many people are uncomfortable about speaking in front of strangers and crowds. Contrary to what some may believe, not all sales people are naturally comfortable with such types of communication. Learning to be comfortable with speaking to new people is a skill that has to be developed. Sales people who need to get more comfortable with communication may need to take extra steps to nurture those skills. Join a group like Toastmasters or practice an “elevator pitch” with a friend. The more you practice speaking, the more comfortable you will become.

Focus on Your Past Successes

Success breeds more success, so it is a great idea to take a periodic stock of your past sales victories. Think about the big deals you landed or the major clients you won. On days when you experience setbacks, replay those memories of your past successes. Remembering your successes will make you feel like a winner and help you land your next big sale.