The other day, I answered a landline (am I the only unicorn that still has one?).  One of those random numbers we never answer anymore - out of curiosity.  

It never disappoints.

The line is either quiet when the automated dialer wasn't quick enough to connect with whomever wherever. Or, a robot starts with “oh-so-natural-voice” about your auto insurance/warranty, Google search engine, or warning about that outstanding warrant for your arrest unless you do XYZ. I once got a person reading the script so well I thought it was a recording.

This time, a friendly voice, excited that someone actually answered, said, “Is lady of the house there?”  He lost me right there.

What does it even mean?

Why, because women are more compassionate, therefore generous, open to charity, or fundraising when you play the emotions right?  Deep down, it just brought back all those cheap pickup lines I heard over the years. You know, those that never...

Solve your client’s problem – and you have a business.

Sounds right. That’s how it works. Does it?

Now imagine your favorite wine shop. You’re a wine salesman who just walked in with a bag full of bottles to taste, a suitcase with pricing sheets, shelf talkers, and brochures. You got a sales goal to hit every single month. You also have numerous new placements to make, new vintages to sell, different brands (often completely unknown) to introduce. The pressure is on.

No empty spots in a desperate need of filling with new products, nor free space waiting for new...

I have seen that 'I-am-lost' look before. 

I noticed them as soon as they entered this mega wine store. A nice couple, in their sixties, somewhat intimidated. The store was my biggest account then, easily over 10 thousand sq ft. It displayed thousands of wines, liquors, beers. I know what it feels like when you just want a bottle or two for a dinner, don't know much about wines, and walk into a huge store like this. The last thing you want is a sales clerk all over you because honestly, you're not even sure what you're looking for. 

Where do you even start? Let's get something we can actually pronounce. Do you like this label? Do you search by grape variety or by origin? You see, I'm a wine person so I know my preferences.  This couple looked more than confused and I felt for them. 

If I wasn't pinned behind a little station, doing a wine tasting, I would jump in and help. I knew how to put people at ease and find out what they like - so I can recommend something...