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THE SALES PLAYBOOK        October Edition

Oct 05, 2025
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A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDER

At Zest, we know sales can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, especially when you’re juggling finding new leads, managing customer relationships, and trying to keep momentum going in your business.

It’s easy to put off the things you don’t enjoy and instead focus on the things you feel comfortable with, telling yourself you’re being productive.  But if this stuff is not helping you move the dial closer to achieving your sales goals its wasted time and energy, you’re only kidding yourself.

Nothing every great happened by staying in your comfort zone. Bite the bullet and face your sales activities head on. Momentum builds confidence, and confidence builds growth.   

So, what are you waiting for, go take October by storm!

This month I have cherry picked some top tips that will help you keep those sales moving forward.

Enjoy the read.

 

Sales Follow-Up: Overcoming the Fear

You’ve invested time and energy into finding that perfect prospect, but when it comes to following up, hesitation often creeps in. Many business owners worry about being “pushy,” but the reality is that consistent, professional follow-up is where sales are won.

  • Shift your mindset: Following up isn’t pestering, it’s proving reliability.
  • Have a system: Use reminders and templates in your CRM to take the pressure off.
  • Add value: Share insights, ask thoughtful questions, and keep the conversation moving forward.

Remember, it can take an average of 8 follows up to close a sales.


Your CRM: More Than a Contact Database

Anyone that knows me knows how passionate I am about using a CRM system to support your sales activities. However, too many businesses treat their CRM like a glorified address book. If that’s you, you’re missing out. Using more of the features and functionality with the system can transform how you manage leads, track activity, and close deals.

Ask yourself:

  • Are you using templates and sequences? These save time and keep your sales outreach consistent.
  • Do you assign tasks? Making sure nothing slips through the cracks is half the battle.
  • Are you exploring built-in AI tools? Many CRMs now offer suggestions, scoring, and automation that can streamline your process.

If you’re not tapping into these features, your CRM is costing you more than just the license fee, it’s costing you opportunities.


LinkedIn: Contacts or Conversations?

It’s easy to fall into the trap of adding endless connections without ever engaging with them. But connections don’t pay the bills, conversations do.

  • Start small: Reach out to 5 new contacts a day with a genuine message.
  • Be personal: Send them a Direct Message and make it about them, not an essay on why they should buy from you!
  • Stay consistent: Regular activity builds visibility and trust.

Your LinkedIn network is only as valuable as the relationships you create within it.

 

UPCOMING WEBINAR

Mindset Matters – Building a Sales-Focused Approach to Your Business

Tuesday 22nd October, 2pm (UK time)

This free 45-minute webinar will help you understand how mindset drives sales success, and how to build a focused, repeatable approach for growth.

Save your seat here


The Sales Den: Small Business Sales Training & Coaching Programme

If you’re a small business owner who struggles to make consistent sales, The Sales Den could be the game-changer you need. Our monthly training and coaching membership helps you:

  • Build a repeatable sales system
  • Gain confidence in your sales approach
  • Grow your pipeline with proven techniques

If you’re ready to supercharge your sales activity, The Sales Den is waiting for you.

Spaces are limited. Get the brochure here

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