Let’s face it, most sales pitches are awkward. They’re filled with over-the-top enthusiasm, canned lines, and way too much talking. Sound familiar?
It’s like a bad first date where one person won’t stop bragging about themselves, while the other is desperately looking for the nearest exit.
Here’s the thing: selling isn’t about impressing someone with how great you are.
It’s about creating a connection.
And just like dating, it starts with trust.
Think about it -- would you trust someone who spends the entire time talking about how amazing they are?
Of course not.
You’d trust the person who listens, asks thoughtful questions, and genuinely cares about what you have to say.
That’s the kind of connection that makes people want to stick around.
So, how do you stop being the bad first date of sales?
First, ditch the script.
Nobody wants to feel like they’re talking to a robot.
Instead, focus on having a real conversation.
Ask questions that show you’re interested in their world, like, “What concerns you the most about your financial situation?”
And when they answer, don’t jump in with a solution right away.
Pause.
Let them feel heard.
Second, stop trying to “close the deal” on the first meeting.
Relationships take time to build, whether it’s in dating or in sales.
Rushing to the finish line only makes you look desperate.
Instead, focus on building trust step by step.
Share insights, offer value, and let the relationship grow naturally.
Finally, remember this: people don’t buy from you because of your product or service.
They buy because they trust you.
And trust isn’t built through flashy presentations or clever pitches.
It’s built through authenticity, empathy, and genuine connection.
So, the next time you’re in a sales conversation, ask yourself this:
“Am I acting like the bad first date, or am I creating a connection that makes them want to see me again?”
Because in the end, selling isn’t about closing deals.
It’s about building relationships that last.
And that’s how you turn a bad first date into a lifelong partnership.
Related: How To Turn a ‘No’ Into a Referral
Ari Galper is the world’s number one authority on trust-based selling and is the most sought-after high-net worth/lead generation expert for financial advisors. His newest book, “Trust In A Split Second” has become an instant best-seller among financial advisors worldwide – you can get a Free copy of Ari’s book here and, when you click the “YES” button in the order form, you’ll also receive a complimentary “plug up the holes” lead generation consultation. Ari has been featured in CEO Magazine, Forbes, INC Magazine and the Financial Review. He is considered a contrarian in the financial services industry and in his book, everything you learned about selling will be turned upside down. No more chasing, no pressure, no closing.