My glamorous title at work is the Publisher and Editor of BHC Magazine. I use this to open doors and impress my relatives who remember me as the kid that got last in the class.

Beneath that, a large chunk of my job involves in being a sales person for the magazine. The truth is, whichever organization you are in, without sales, you’d be out of a job. So, I take full pride in the ownership of this responsibility.

Speaking of connecting the dots, I am thankful I’ve picked up some fundamental skills in sales from some of the greatest sales industries; namely life insurance, and from the school of hard knock – selling shoes in retailing and a few other jobs in my past lives.

A wise man once told me that sales is a function that builds your character and teaches you humility and resilience. I cannot agree more.

I am a better person because of this. For those who are interested to advance their career in marketing, my advise is; start with selling!

Rule #1: Rejection is a part of Sales.

I remember calling a prospect once, before we launched the magazine. He was mocking me about how most magazines have come and gone. And told me to call back in 6 months if I’m still in the market. Coupled with a number of rejection phone calls that day, it actually shattered my confidence.

But then, a little voice came to me and say: ‘rejection is just a part of sales!’

Looking back, if I had believe what the guy had said, I wouldn’t be sharing my lessons with you today. Below are some of the lessons I have learned in overcoming the many obstacles like this phone call.

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