Do you cringe at the idea of selling your products because you don’t want to feel pushy? You’re not alone. Many product-based business owners struggle with small business sales because they’ve been on the receiving end of bad sales tactics.
I get it—because I’ve been there.
Over 15 years ago, I was invited to a friend’s house for dinner, expecting to celebrate exciting personal news. Instead, I was ambushed with a hard-sell presentation for a travel business—and pressured to join on the spot. That experience left me feeling misled and frustrated, and it completely changed how I thought about sales.
But here’s the truth: Small business sales don’t have to feel pushy or manipulative. When you have a product or service that truly serves people, you owe it to them to share it—you just need to sell differently.
4 Counter-Cultural Small Business Sales Strategies That Actually Work
1. Prioritize the Person Over the Sale
True sales success starts with connection. Be confident enough to let someone walk away if the timing isn’t right. That trust often turns into future purchases and referrals.
2. Prioritize the Customer Experience (Even After the Sale)
Great small business sales don’t stop when money changes hands. Check in, share resources, and create value long after the sale—loyal customers are worth far more than constantly chasing new ones.
3. Prioritize the Long-Term Vision
Sometimes you need to “lose” a small sale today to win a long-term partnership tomorrow. A small concession, like free shipping or a bonus product, can build goodwill and lead to bigger repeat orders.
4. Prioritize Community Over Competition
The small business world has plenty of room for everyone. Collaborate with competitors, cheer them on, and focus on what makes your brand unique. Customers will notice—and respect—your integrity.
The Bottom Line on Small Business Sales
Selling doesn’t have to feel icky. When you focus on people first, you naturally build trust, loyal customers, and long-term revenue growth.
📩 Which strategy will you try first? DM me on Facebook (@AndeeHart) and let me know—I’m cheering you on!
Resources & Links
Create your monthly marketing campaigns in under an hour: Product Marketing Bank
Join the waitlist for my signature She Sells Wholesale course – doors open soon!
Apply for the She Sells Differently Mastermind
Connect with Andee Hart @ She Sells Differently
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