Why Pretending Fails in Sales - Coco Chanel

Showing Up: Very Good Sales

What can we learn from a fashion icon who was rejected by her industry? When Coco Chanel started, she was an outsider in a world dominated by men who dictated what women should wear. She refused to play by their rules, building an empire on a simple, powerful idea: "Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself."

In this episode, Benjamin explores how Chanel’s philosophy is a crucial lesson for sales. The biggest mistake salespeople make is playing a role - adopting a persona they think clients want to see. But people buy from people they trust, and trust only comes from authenticity.

Too often, we hide our true personalities behind a mask of professionalism, believing it’s what’s required to succeed. The truth is, your unique quirks, stories, and perspective are what make you valuable. The question is: are you brave enough to be yourself?

At Showing Up, we believe the most effective salesperson you can be is yourself. And that clarity makes all the difference.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why Coco Chanel's story is a masterclass in the power of authenticity.
• How to spot the moments you’re “acting” as a salesperson and why it fails.
• The difference between being authentic and being unprofessional.
• Why your real personality is your greatest asset in building trust and closing deals.

Exercise

What’s your version of authenticity? Get a blank page and draw three columns. In the first, list what makes you the "real you." In the second, write what your friends and colleagues value most in you. In the third, identify the work habits that feel inauthentic. Circle the authentic traits you can bring more of into your work.

Links & Resources

• Learn more at showinguplearning.com
• Subscribe to access our full library of sales training modules and get free access to The 12 Traits Clients Trust Most.
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