The 'awkward' sales phrases that actually create trust
May 25, 2025
This Week's Message...
- Why trying to be "smooth" in sales is actually destroying trust
- The 3 "awkward" phrases that create better connections with potential clients
- How being direct (instead of polished) leads to higher close rates
Dear Entrepreneur,
Every "sales guru" tells us the same thing: To close more sales, you need polished scripts, smooth transitions, and the perfect words that roll off your tongue like honey.
We've all been there - rehearsing scripts in the mirror, trying to memorize the "perfect" way to ask for the sale, desperately attempting to avoid those awkward silences.
But what if everything we've been taught about "professional" sales conversations is actually destroying trust and making the whole process feel icky?
Here's the truth that took me 18 years in business to discover: The moments we try hardest to be "smooth" are exactly when we lose authentic connection with our potential clients.
In fact, I've discovered that three surprisingly "awkward" phrases create more trust and better results than any polished script ever could.
Let me explain...
Phrase #1: "Tell me what's going on"
Common approach: Most people try to ease into sales conversations with endless small talk about weather, kids, or weekend plans, hoping to naturally transition to business.
Reality check: This actually creates more awkwardness and wastes everyone's time.
The power of being direct: This phrase feels abrupt at first, but it immediately shows you're there to help, not chat. It gives your potential client permission to dive straight into their challenges.
Phrase #2: "The next step is"
Common approach: Dancing around the next steps, hoping the client will somehow magically ask to buy.
Reality check: This uncertainty leaves both parties feeling uncomfortable and unclear.
The power of leadership: This direct phrase positions you as the expert guide. It removes confusion and shows you have a clear path to help them.
Phrase #3: "As promised"
Common approach: Avoiding follow-up because you don't want to seem pushy, or sending vague "just checking in" messages.
Reality check: This actually comes across as less confident and more salesy.
The power of integrity: This phrase shows you're someone who keeps their word and follows through - exactly what clients want in a service provider.
Here's what happens when you embrace these "awkward" but authentic phrases:
- Conversations become clearer and more purposeful
- You stop wasting time trying to be perfect
- Clients trust you more because you're real
- Your close rates actually improve
The counter-intuitive truth is: These phrases work BECAUSE they're not trying to be clever or sophisticated. They create genuine moments of connection that build real trust.
Now I want you to scroll down to the MOVE section for this week’s action step to get your next sale to scale!
Remember to live your one life,
💗Sailynn...
Your FUN Business Coach
Creator of The Legacy Business System
PS Tell me what's going on - what's your biggest struggle with sales conversations? Hit reply and let me know.
Spark
Inspiration to uplift your mindset and set the tone for your week.
❝
"The moment you stop trying to be perfect is the moment people start trusting you more. Your authenticity is your superpower in sales - those little moments of realness, of being direct, of showing you're human? That's not weakness, that's your strength. This week, give yourself permission to be beautifully imperfect in your sales conversations. You might just find it's exactly what your potential clients have been waiting for."
Move
One simple action step to improve your business this week.
Reach out to 3 people in your network who you know you could help. Use this template:
"Hey [Name], How is your week going? I just helped [Client Name] achieve [Specific Result] after she came to me with challenges similar to what you mentioned in our last conversation. If you're still working on this, the next step is a quick call to see if what worked for her could work for you too. Does Tuesday or Wednesday work better?"
Momentum
Wins and progress from women like you, showing what’s possible.
“Sailynn, I really enjoyed chatting with you. One of the things I noticed was the meaningful questions you asked. You have a natural ability to lean in with curiosity and gain trust.” - Dayna
Fuel
Tools or resources you can use now to add clarity and ease to your business.
Print these three phrases and keep them visible during sales conversations:
- Tell me what's going on
- The next step is
- As promised
Next Step
Your invitation to explore deeper transformation and growth when you're ready.
1) The Legacy Business School
A 90-day program to grow your business with laser-focused intention and ease. Using my unique blueprint, The Legacy Business System, you’ll learn strategies to reduce your working hours, grow your revenue, and stop wasting time on overwhelm. Self-guided with 1:1 support in a group setting. Learn More
2) The Blueprint to Growing a Thriving Business Without Burnout!
4 Core Pillars I Overlooked on My First Journey From ZERO to a Million Dollars Download Now for Free
3) The Concierge Club
Transform Your Business, Reclaim Your Life! Join The Concierge Club, an exclusive 90-day 1-1 coaching experience built around The Legacy Business System—my proven blueprint for creating a profitable, purpose-driven business. Together, we’ll align your goals, simplify your operations, and build a mission-driven team—empowering you to achieve lasting success with ease, balance, and clarity. Learn More
Sign Up for The Sunday Shift with Sailynn
A weekly business newsletter specifically for women entrepreneurs who want to grow their business with laser focused intention and ease in 2025!