Last week, three gentlemen Tawanda, Brian, and Mr. Chamu went out for lunch at one of Harare’s high-end restaurants. The type with waiters in bowties, chairs like presidential thrones, and menu prices that make you question your career choices.
As they settled in, the waiter glided over with practiced grace. “What will you have, gentlemen?”
Mr. Chamu, the client, confidently said, “I’ll have the Spicy Piri-Piri Chimichurri Platter.”
Tawanda and Brian glanced at each other. Was that food, perfume, or imported firewood?
But not wanting to look clueless, they nodded quickly: “Same order, please.”
What a mistake.
When You Pretend, You Pay In Sweat and Regret
Fifteen minutes later, lava was served on a plate. That meal wasn’t spicy it was punishment. Tawanda started sweating like he owed someone money. Brian’s nose was running like ZINWA had opened valves full blast. Meanwhile, Mr. Chamu? Calmly chewing, smiling, clearly a veteran of volcano-level chili.
They tried to keep composure. But deep inside? They were on fire and all because they didn’t ask a simple question.
Salespeople, This Is What Your Clients Feel Daily
This right here is how many salespeople operate.
They pitch fancy products with big jargon and complicated features, assuming the client understands. The client, not wanting to look lost, nods politely and says, “Same order, please.”
But inside, they’re confused. They go along… then go home full of regret.
Talk Less. Ask More. Sell Better.
Most salespeople are trained to talk. Few are trained to ask.
Before pitching your amazing offer, start with simple questions like:
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“What’s the main issue you’re trying to fix?”
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“Have you used anything similar before?”
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“Do you want the advanced or the easy-to-use option?”
Selling is not showing off. It’s showing care.
Jargon Kills Trust Use Real Language
“Artisan-infused truffle glaze” sounds great… on a cooking show.
But when a client just wants results, don’t confuse them with big words.
They’ll smile politely, pretend to understand, but leave unhappy. And unhappy clients don’t complain they disappear. And tell others.
Want Repeat Business? Be a Guide, Not a Genius
Back to the restaurant… The waiter could have saved the day by asking:
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“Are you okay with spicy food?”
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“Would you like a recommendation?”
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“Is this your first time here?”
In sales, the same principle applies. Don’t just serve. Guide.
Ask Before You Serve
Great salespeople don’t rush to impress. They slow down to understand.
The client who feels heard, understood, and valued will buy again and again.
Tawanda and Brian learned the hard way burned tongues, watery eyes, and an expensive lunch they’ll never forget.
Your clients might not sweat, but if you don’t ask the right questions, they’ll burn quietly then leave loudly.
#SalesWithHeart #ClientFirst #AskBeforeYouServe #AfricanSalesTips #BurntByChimichurri #BusinessLessons #SalesMindset #CustomerExperience #RealTalkForEntrepreneurs #JerryNyazungu
