MSL 314 - 6 ways to stop sounding like a sales bot and authentically connect with prospects
Sales conversations feel gross when you're trying to follow a script or sound “professional.” But here's the thing: your prospects can smell inauthenticity from a mile away. In this episode, I'm sharing six practical ways to show up as yourself during sales calls, from sharing honest struggles to ditching corporate jargon. These aren't tricks or tactics. They're permission slips to be human, build real trust, and actually enjoy talking to potential clients. Because when you stop performing and start connecting, sales becomes a conversation you look forward to instead of dread.
The 6 Tips as Prompts:
Share a small, honest struggle that relates to theirs What's a relatable challenge or embarrassing moment you've experienced that connects to their situation? Tell a quick story that shows you get it—not to one-up them, but to create instant relatability and lower their guard.
Reflect what you genuinely notice What emotion are you picking up on—hesitation, excitement, fear, confusion? Name it. Give them back what you're hearing so they know you're actually listening. "It sounds like you're feeling some financial pressure around this" or "I can hear how excited you are about this new direction."
Be upfront about your limits What can't you do? Say it clearly. Don't promise the world or pretend you handle everything just to land the client. Tell them exactly what you're great at and what falls outside your zone—then offer to connect them with resources for the rest.
Use real human language Where are you using jargon, acronyms, or corporate-speak to sound smart? Cut it. Talk like you're sitting next to them on a train, not presenting to a board. Save the technical details for when you're actually in the work together.
Co-create the next step together Take the pressure off closing by saying upfront: "The only goal for this call is to help you get to a decision—whether that's scheduling another conversation, moving forward together, or agreeing it's not a fit." What simple options can you present so you decide the next move together?
Share a slice of your personality What makes you, you? A goofy story, a moment of self-deprecation, something that made you laugh this morning? Don't monopolize the conversation, but let them see the human behind the consultant. Make them feel better about their problem and excited (or at least relieved) about working with you.
