Unit 9
Activity Book, pages 46 and 47, exercises 9 and 10
9 Read the following web page and complete it with the missing sentences a–g. There is one sentence you do not need.
a. Will you read it word by word, use notes or memorise it?
b. Do you know when it was developed, and where it is produced?
c. Instead, look round the room and make eye contact with your audience.
d. For example, thank your hosts for allowing you to speak to them, and compliment their company.
e. That’s why you need to be well-prepared!
f. Why is your product superior to others and why does it have better value?
g. What makes your product perfect for them?
How to make a sales pitch? Whether you're selling a new type of toothpaste to a chain of pharmacies, the latest computer software to a school or a new kind of package holiday to a travel agency – you need to know … 1) Do your research Don't come away from a sales pitch wishing you had been better prepared. It is essential to know everything about your product.(1).......... ................................................................................You also need to know who the target market is – for example, the age group or income of the people who might buy it. Not only that, you should know all about the competition – that is, similar products on the market.(2) .................................................................................................................. . In addition, you should know exactly which people you are speaking to, and what their needs are. For example, if they represent a middle-class department store in a humble neighbourhood, be ready to explain why your particular product would suit customers who do not have lots of money. (3).................. ............................................................ Most of all, you need to believe in what you're selling, and the best way to do that is to use it! 2) Prepare and practise Plan your presentation carefully, not just what you will say, but how you will say it.(4)............................ ......................................................................... Whatever you decide, it is always a good idea to have a list of your main points, in case something interrupts you, or you simply freeze with nerves (it happens!). Then practise it, if possible in front of colleagues. Make changes and practise it again. 3) Be professional Keep your presentation short and simple. Start with some friendly comments.(5) ................................... ...........................................................Remember to speak slowly and clearly. It is important to appear confident (even if you're nervous!). While you're speaking, don't keep your head down. (6).................................................................................... Smile! When you've finished speaking, invite questions. If you don't know the answers, don't pretend! Thank the questioner and promise to find out the answer (and do it!). Finally, have a summary of your presentation ready to hand out at the end of the session. I wish I had known all this when I started out in business! Good luck! |
Answers
1 b 2 f 3 g 4 a 5 d 6 c
Vocabulary
10 Find the expressions 1 -5 in the text, then match them with their meanings.
1- package holiday ________
2- sales pitch ________
3- target market ________
4- age group ________
5- department store________
a. people who are identified as possible customers
b. a set of people of similar age
c. a large shop that sells any different types of things
d. a presentation made by someone who is trying to sell a product
e. an organised trip with everything included in the price (travel, accommodation, food)
Answers:
1 e 2 d 3 a 4 b 5 c