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How important is a work ethic?

Guest post by: Trent Leyshan

Article Overview: I mentioned in a past blog that I measure my sales team on their work ethic and willingness to contribute to others. I've since received a number of emails wanting to learn more, so this week I'll explore work ethic in more detail and then contribution next week.

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How important is a work ethic?



I mentioned in a past blog that I measure my sales team on their work ethic and willingness to contribute to others. I've since received a number of emails wanting to learn more, so this week I'll explore work ethic in more detail and then contribution next week.


Whatever your field of endeavour - work ethic is important. The old cliché, "you get out what you put in", is true. I see many people in life looking for the quick wins. Perhaps they are prepared to give things a shot, but not enough to stick things out when the going gets rough.


How does sticking relate to work ethic? Let's explore by breaking down these two words in isolation:

Work: exertion or effort directed to produce or accomplish something.


Ethic: the body of moral principles or values governing a particular culture or group.


You can see from above effort and values are the operative words. How much do you value effort? Does effort reflect your company values? Or your senior leaders? If not, you are not releasing your full business potential.


I know if I hire the right salesperson for the job and provide them with the right support, and this person is willing stick at it long enough with a strong work ethic - the results with follow.

Conversely, if I hire the wrong salesperson irrespective of support, effort becomes futile - making effort on its own redundant. Moreover, effort with the wrong direction is also futile.


With so many people looking for the quick wins in a culture that encourages instant gratification, fast ROI is the mandate. However, this strategy often contradicts the natural processes that are required to get the job done right, even if it takes longer.

I prefer to hire salespeople who have run their own businesses, successfully or otherwise because their history suggests they are proactive. I also lean towards developing salespeople who enjoy playing sports, as it shows competitive spirit and they are prepared to get off their bums and have a go.


Do these characteristics guarantee a strong work ethic? No, but it's a good start.

We all know we reap what we sew, yet many of us aren't prepared to take the time to develop and nurture our crop.

Managers, dont be too quick to hire salespeople you dont feel are the right fit, just because you believe sales is the answer to some of your problems. Take your time.


Furthermore, provide your salespeople with the right support, structure and direction, and makes sure you encourage a strong work ethic. The best way is to lead by your own example.

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Home > Sales > Trent Leyshan > How important is a work ethic >
Article Tags: sales training

About the Author: Trent Leyshan
RSS for Trent's articles - Visit Trent's website

Trent Leyshan is founder, CEO of BOOM!

A leading international sales training company that specialises in the development of inspirational sales cultures, leaders and salespeople. 

Early in his career Trent was head tradeshow spruiker and sales manager for Australia's most flamboyant TV salesman, Big Kev. 

He has since driven two of his own companies from lounge room operations into market leaders. And led sales teams in leading new media and advertising agencies. 

Trent is a sought after expert and facilitator on sales performance and strategy. He is the Author of sales book, The Naked Salesman: How to walk the talk and sell your way to success! 

BOOM! develops sales training strategies and delivers inspiring learning experiences for some of the world's most successful and demanding sales driven organisations. Empowering them with modern skills and tools to effectively engage with customers and build stronger and more valuable relationships. 

 



Click here to visit Trent's website Dashed Line

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