One of my very good friends leads a top performing sales organization selling financial services out of Boise Idaho. His team is consistently rated as the top producing office in North America for his company. We are always exchanging ideas on selling, challenging each other on philosophies and suffice it to say, his past performance has always caused me to listen intently to what he has to say.
I have no idea if the story he told me is true or not. He has played a practical joke or two in his day. Short of travelling to Africa, I'm going to give him the benefit of the doubt. Even if there is a bit of embellishment to the story, it is a great tell with an insightful message.
In Africa, as Charles tells it, the natives have a clever way to catch monkeys. They take a coconut shell, cut a small hole in one end, and hollow it out. The hole is just big enough to allow a monkey's hand to enter.
Then they attach a string to the other end of the coconut shell, place some peanuts inside, put the shell in the middle of a clearing and hide themselves behind a tree until a monkey comes.
The monkey smells the peanuts inside the shell ... it reaches in to grab the peanuts ... but when it does, its fist, full with peanuts, is too large to pull back through the hole.
The natives start pulling on the string and reel the silly monkey in. Why, because the monkey will not let go of those peanuts to save his life. All the monkey would have to do is let go of the peanuts. He doesn't, as he has to have the peanuts.
I'm thinking there may be some truth to his story. I did a Google search "catch a monkey using a coconut" and found one hit on a bladder cancer website that included an article on relaxation that references an African legend, where they do they catch monkeys using coconuts with a banana inside. Seriously!
So let's assume this monkey catching technique works. Chances are if you're like me, you'll never get a chance to try it out. I don't recommend you doing this at your local zoo!
So why tell the story? Do you find yourself grasping a fist full of peanuts? Do you ever get hold of something and not let go? Do you want the peanuts so badly that you fail to consider other alternatives to achieve your goal? Are you flexible and effective in your thinking? Are you prepared to try other methodologies and techniques? Do you seek out others for advice? Do you use your power of observation on those who are successful?
I believe one of Charles' greatest strengths is his ability to make things simple. Once he has done this, he shares the basics for success with his team. He then walks the talk and leads by example. He believes in his people, they believe in him. He's the type of leader that wouldn't use coconuts to capture monkeys, he'd sit down with them, and using his big smile and power of persuasion, have them convinced they should simply follow him home. They probably would!
Charles goes on to offer some simple advice on how to "get the peanuts." I wonder if this is the basics of sales success.
1.Always be prospecting. "Everyone is an opportunity for new business or a referral."
2.Keep the calendar full of appointments. "A body in motion stays in motion, a body at rest stays at rest."
3.Be proficient in your presentation skills. "Confidence sells."
4.Your customers are a gold mine for future business. "Treat them right and they will take care of you."
5.Set stretch goals. "Great things happen to those who make things happen."
6.Hard work is just that. "Honest intelligent effort is always rewarded."
7.Have fun. "Enjoy what you do and you'll be good at it."
Great advice Charles, thanks for sharing. Wishing you continued success!
7 Ways to Stay Sharp in Sales ... or how to catch your first monkey
Using the Internet to Catch a Cheating Spouse
Do you suspect that your husband or wife is cheating on you? If you do, you may be looking for ways to catch him or her in the act. One approach that you may want to take involves using the internet to your advantage. The internet makes it relatively easy to men and women to develop secret relationships and to carry on affairs online.
When it comes to using the internet to catch a cheating spouse, you may not know where to proceed. If you do not consider yourself to be computer savvy, the whole process may seem hopeless. The good news is that you can catch your cheating spouse online and you may be able to do so in a few simple steps.
The easiest way to catch a cheating spouse who uses the internet is to install a keyword tracker program, also commonly referred to as a keylogger, on your computer. These software programs are actually similar to programs that hackers use to get information from your computer. They can also help you find out if your spouse is using the internet to cheat on you. What these programs will do is record all words that are typed on a computer. This allows you to examine emails, chat sessions, and so much more.
If you are interested in using a keyword tracker or a keylogger, be cautious of the programs that you do choose. As previously stated, some hackers do use this similar technology. Spending a few extra dollars to purchase a program, as opposed to using a free version online, is advised. Many of these programs are marketed as internet safety tools for parents.
Another easy way to use the internet to catch a cheating spouse is to visit the online websites of their email accounts. Even if you do not have a password to get into their account, there are still some things that you can do. For example, most websites, like Hotmail and Yahoo, will automatically save the email address of the last person who used the website. Examine these websites to see if one does show up. Is it your partner’s main email address or are they using multiple accounts? This may be a sign of a cheating spouse.
Your computer’s internet history may be a wealthy source of information for you. Most computers allow you to check the websites visited within the last week or at least day by opening up a new internet window. Next, click on the history icon button, which appears towards the top of your screen. This icon displays a small clock with a green arrow wrapped around a portion of it. What websites has your significant other visited in the past few days? Be on the lookout for adult chat websites, pornographic websites, dating websites and so forth.
In keeping with the checking of your computer’s internet history, be suspicious of no information at all. Has your computer’s internet history recently been cleared? There are very few good reasons why it should have been. Remember that many cheaters research ways, especially online, to not get caught. A cleared internet history is a good sign that your husband or wife has something to hide.
If you suspect that your husband or wife is using the internet to cheat on you, there are two different approaches that you can take. One of those approaches involves talking to them. If you found proof online, show that proof to them. You will then need to decide, together, where your relationship wants to go. If you do decide to work on your relationship, please be cautious. It is important to remember that your husband or wife now knows that you know how to track their movements online.
Another one of your options is to rely on the use of parental controls. Treating your spouse like a teenager, however, may incite some anger in them. There is nothing worse for a cheater than knowing that they have been caught or now needing a password to visit their favorite websites.
The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Private Investigator to Catch a Cheating Spouse
Do you think that your spouse is cheating on you? If you do, you may be looking for proof. After all, if marriage and children are involved, divorce may be what you are thinking. If that is the case, you should first find proof. To do so, you may want to hire a private investigator to help you prove that your husband or wife is cheating on you.
As for what a private investigator does, you will find that their actions will vary. Different investigators handle their cases differently. For example, you may receive direct, one-on-one service from the investigator that you hire or you may end up working with one of their close associates. Either way, your spouse will likely be followed. Their behavior may be documented in pictures or videos. A private investigator may also examine your computer or your phone records.
Before deciding to use the services of a private investigator, it is first important to know that there are a number of pros and cons to doing so. One of those pros or plus sides is that you have solid proof. This is important if you are looking to get a divorce. If you want or need to receive support or alimony payments, you need to have proof that your husband or wife was cheating on you. There is no better proof than professional videos and pictures taken by an experienced and certified private investigator.
Another pro or plus side to hiring the services of a private investigator is that you do not have to do the work yourself. Tracking a cheating spouse can be easy, but it can also be very difficult. Some cheaters go through great lengths to ensure that they do not get caught. You may essentially be sent on a wild goose chase. On the other hand, many private investigators already know where to look, what behavior changes to look for, as well as what traps to not fall for.
Perhaps, the greatest benefit of using the services of a private investigator is that you do not have to see the act being committed yourself. Yes, you will still likely get video footage and pictures of your spouse cheating, but that is much different than seeing the act with your own eyes. In fact, you don’t even have to look at the documentation your private investigator provides you with. Well-known and reputable private investigators do not lie. Take the proof and pass it on to your divorce attorney.
Although there are a number of pros or plus sides to using a private investigator to help you catch your cheating spouse, there are also a number of cons or downsides to doing so as well. One of those being the cost. When hiring a private investigator, it is important for you to use your best judgment. Spend as little money as possible, but make sure that you hire an individual who is trustworthy and who has a good reputation. In this situation, quality is more than worth the extra cost.
In keeping with costs, it is also important to take time into consideration. There are some men who cheat on a daily or weekly basis, while others only do so on occasion. It will honestly all depend on your spouse. Your private investigator may follow your husband or wife for weeks before they find any concrete proof that your spouse is cheating. Despite getting proof in the end, this time period may be costly and agonizing for you.
Since there are a number of pros and cons to catching a cheating spouse with the assistance of a private investigator, you are urged to examine your own personal wants and needs. Do you want proof that your spouse is cheating on you? Do you want proper and professional documentation that can be used in divorce proceedings? If so, a private investigator is worth the look.
What to Do When You Catch Your Wife Cheating
Have you recently learned that your wife has been cheating on you? If you have, you may be unsure as to how you should proceed. After all, you may have a wide array of emotions running through your mind, including hurt, anger, frustration, and sadness.
As for the steps that you will want to take, when you learn that your wife has been having an affair, a few suggestions are highlighted below. By following these suggestions, you are more likely to let your head do the talking, as opposed to your broken heat.
One of the first steps that you will want to take is call your wife out on her cheating ways. Let her know that you know what she has been up to. What that said, it is important to make sure that you do know. Do not confront your wife until you have concrete evidence that she has been cheating. Whether your followed her, intercepted an email, or hired a private investigator, make sure that your wife really has been having an affair before you bring out the accusations.
It is also important to decide what you want to do, in terms of the future. In fact, you may want to do this first. You should decide what is best for you and your relationship beforehand. Can you continue to live with your wife? Will you still trust her? Do you believe that your marriage is worth saving? These are all questions that you should have answers to.
Once you have called your wife out on her cheating ways, give her the opportunity to explain herself. In all honesty, there is never a good reason for cheating in a marriage, but do wait and see what she has to say. Is there any truth to what she is claiming? Have you been cheating or distant yourself? Do you avoid having sex with your wife? As a reminder, these are not good excuses for having an affair, but the answers to your wife’s questions may help to make your marriage worth saving.
Speaking of saving your marriage, you and your wife should discuss the future together. As for why the decision should be made together, because you never know what she is thinking. Did your wife cheat because she could or because she was unsatisfied with the sex at home? Or, did she cheat because she met and feel in love with someone else? If that is the case, your wife may prefer to just end your marriage altogether.
Call on professional help. There are many situations in a marriage where help is needed and cheating is definitely one of those situations. Do you have a friend or a trusted relative that you can confide in? You may find your situation improving once you are able to talk about it with someone that you know or trust. As for professional help, a divorce lawyer or a marriage counselor may be needed.
The above mentioned steps are just a few of the many that you may want to consider taking, should you find out that your wife is or has been cheating on you. As a reminder, be sure to think about your options, as well as your needs before confronting her. This can help to make the whole process much better and easier to deal with for all parties.
What to Do When You Catch Your Boyfriend or Girlfriend Cheating
Are you in a serious romantic relationship? If you are, is your relationship defined as being boyfriend and girlfriend? If it is, you may still be curious about cheating. Despite the fact that you may not be married, it doesn’t mean that a cheating partner will not hurt.
If you catch your boyfriend or girlfriend cheating, you may be curious as to what you should do. After all, a quick internet search online will mostly produce results for married couples. As a reminder, just because you are not married, it doesn’t have to mean that you have to put up with a cheating boyfriend or girlfriend.
If you learn that you boyfriend or girlfriend has been cheating, the first thing that you will want to do is take a step back. You will want to fully think the situation through. Catching a cheating spouse often results in impulsive actions. It is expected, but it can be harmful. As for what you should do when you do learn about the cheating, please continue reading on.
If you actually catch your boyfriend or girlfriend in the act, like if you see them having sex, leave the room. In fact, you should do so immediately. Verifying an affair is one thing, but staying the room, even just to argue, is not advised. Vacate the premise immediately, unless of course it is your own home. This gives you time to think about what you saw and what your actions should be, without having to see half naked bodies sitting in front of you.
Be sure to think about what you saw or what you learned. If you are seriously considering ending your relationship, do not decide right away. Instead, ask your boyfriend or girlfriend for a little bit of time apart. This is ideal if you do not live together. If you do live together, ask that your cheating partner stays with friends or family members. At the very least, have them sleep in another room.
Another action that you can take is to breakup with your boyfriend or girlfriend. As previously stated, you may not want to do this right away, especially if you are in a long-term relationship. With that in mind, be sure to remember that many men and women who cheat often do so again and again. Do you really want to always be wondering if your boyfriend or girlfriend is where they say they are?
If you are interested in trying to save your relationship, you should recommend counseling to your cheating partner. Although counseling is often associated with marriage, couples counseling is also available and can be helpful as well. Your chances of saving your relationship are better if you are older, as opposed to being a teenager, or you have been in a long-term relationship. For many, long-term relationships are worth saving.
As for what you will never want to do, never resort to violence. When placed in situations, such as a finding a cheating spouse, both men and women have the ability to become violent. This violence may be physical, verbal, or a combination of them both. Whatever you do, do not resort to violence, as it often makes the situation much worse than it needs to be.
As you can see, there are a number of different ways that you can go about dealing with a cheating boyfriend or girlfriend. Whichever approach you do take, just be sure to follow your heart, but use your best judgment at the same time.
What to Do When You Catch Your Teenage Love Cheating
Are you a teenager who has recently learned that your boyfriend or girlfriend is or has been cheating on you? If so, you may be unsure as to how you should proceed. After all, the adults in your life may tell you to simply just get over it. But, should you? Please continue reading on for ways to handle a cheating boyfriend or girlfriend.
One of the first things that you will want to do is bring attention to the problem. Does your boyfriend or girlfriend know that you know? If not, let them know. When doing so, however, be careful. Do not call them out on their cheating ways in front of the whole school or do so if your partner is known for displaying violent tenancies. As much as you may want to embarrass your boyfriend or girlfriend, don’t put yourself in danger to do so.
You can end the relationship if you want. If you have only been dating your boyfriend or girlfriend for a short period of time, it may be in your best interest to simply just end the relationship. After all, is it really worth the hassle? Do you always want to be worried about your boyfriend or girlfriend’s wandering eyes? Although it may be the last thing that you want to hear, it is also important to remember that you are young and that you will be able to find love again.
One of the best steps that you can take, after learning that your boyfriend or girlfriend has been cheating on you, is relying on your friends for support. A strong friendship is one of the best ways to overcome a breakup or a cheating partner. Whether you talk to your friends about what had happened to you or if you just hang out like normal, you will want to rely on your friends. They can help you remember what a great person you are and that life will go on.
It may also be a good idea to rely on your family for support. Do you have an older brother or sister who you can trust? If so, talk to them. Remember, just talking about the whole ordeal may make you feel better. You may also be able to seek advice. Although the last thing that you may want to do is talk to your parents, it may be a good idea. Sometimes there is nothing like a hug from mom or dad or a strong shoulder to cry on, no matter how young or old you are.
Not dwelling on your cheating boyfriend or girlfriend is also advised. Once you have determined that they did in fact cheat, make a decision. Do you want to continue the relationship or move on? Regardless of your decision, do not dwell on it. If you decide to continue your relationship, keep an eye on your boyfriend or girlfriend, but don’t constantly remind them of their infidelity. If you decide to move on to a new relationship or no relationship on all, let the experience escape from your mind. Don’t talk about it and try to not think about it.
Most importantly, get tested for sexually transmitted diseases. Did you and your partner have sex? If so, there is always the possibility of getting a sexually transmitted disease, as their likelihood increases with multiple sex partners. Make sure that you get tested right away.