The Six Most Common Types of Sales Objections (And How to Respond)
Posted: Tue Jan 28, 2025 9:15 am
Response: "What is the first step you would need to take to start the buying process, and how can I help?" Then, move on to the next series of steps until the deal is closed.
Objection: “There’s too much going on right now—call back next quarter.”
Another common one from my pharma sales days. I recommend addressing this objection directly by asking what’s going to change next quarter that isn’t already happening now. Don’t be too aggressive, but don’t let them give you the brush-off without getting the details.
If there are legitimate reasons why they need to hold off, use your CRM to set an appropriate follow-up at the right time.
Response: “I understand; what’s going to be different japan telegram data next quarter from this quarter? If you put solving this problem off for three more months, how will that affect [key metric]?”
5. Lack of Authority: How to Reach the Decision-Maker
Ahhh gatekeepers, a classic sales obstacle. How do you get them to pass you on to the person who is really making the decisions? Often, they just want to avoid the potential embarrassment of allowing a salesperson to talk to their boss. They get around this by “passing the buck” and acting like their hands are tied, but we know that isn’t always true.
Logical reasoning and a clear value proposition can get your prospect to reconsider allowing you to speak to key decision-makers.
Objection: "I'll take a message for [decision-maker]."
Gatekeepers are living, breathing objections. They’re often the first roadblock you’ll face. How you interact with them determines the direction of the entire deal. If you play your cards right, they can become one of your most valuable assets. Get them on board with your vision, and they’ll become your internal champion.
Your best strategy is, first, to stop thinking of them as gatekeepers. After all, if you can’t win them over, how could you sell to their boss? Develop trust with them over time, and demonstrate the value you have to offer them and the company.
Objection: “There’s too much going on right now—call back next quarter.”
Another common one from my pharma sales days. I recommend addressing this objection directly by asking what’s going to change next quarter that isn’t already happening now. Don’t be too aggressive, but don’t let them give you the brush-off without getting the details.
If there are legitimate reasons why they need to hold off, use your CRM to set an appropriate follow-up at the right time.
Response: “I understand; what’s going to be different japan telegram data next quarter from this quarter? If you put solving this problem off for three more months, how will that affect [key metric]?”
5. Lack of Authority: How to Reach the Decision-Maker
Ahhh gatekeepers, a classic sales obstacle. How do you get them to pass you on to the person who is really making the decisions? Often, they just want to avoid the potential embarrassment of allowing a salesperson to talk to their boss. They get around this by “passing the buck” and acting like their hands are tied, but we know that isn’t always true.
Logical reasoning and a clear value proposition can get your prospect to reconsider allowing you to speak to key decision-makers.
Objection: "I'll take a message for [decision-maker]."
Gatekeepers are living, breathing objections. They’re often the first roadblock you’ll face. How you interact with them determines the direction of the entire deal. If you play your cards right, they can become one of your most valuable assets. Get them on board with your vision, and they’ll become your internal champion.
Your best strategy is, first, to stop thinking of them as gatekeepers. After all, if you can’t win them over, how could you sell to their boss? Develop trust with them over time, and demonstrate the value you have to offer them and the company.