Many of the most successful salespeople share some common habits. For example, they know when to stop talking and when to listen. They know how to prepare for client meetings, address objections and build rapport. They know which opportunities to spend their time on now and which ones aren’t as important.

Elite sales pros also have non-sales habits that help them rise to the top of their game. What are some of these habits?

Paul Petrone, a senior content marketing manager at LinkedIn, talked to some of the highest-performing sales reps and leaders today to find out what non-sales habits help them perform better at work. Keep reading this issue of PromoPro Daily for a summary of what Petrone learned.

  1. Make time for reflection. This might include prayer, mediation or journaling – all non-sales habits that can impact your sales career. Petrone says that regardless of your preference, many studies affirm the benefit of intentional quiet time.
  2. Exercise regularly. It doesn’t matter what activity you choose – just routinely stay active. During his interviews with top-performing salespeople, Petrone learned that many of them said regular exercise made their mind stronger, which helped them perform better at work.
  3. Give people the benefit of the doubt. It may seem like people are out to ruin your day sometimes, but that’s simply not true. Try to assume positive intent in your sales interactions. This can lead to stronger relationships, Petrone says.
  4. Get your finances in order. Work on the basic life skills of budgeting effectively, living within your means and investing wisely. When you’re not stressed about money in your personal life, you won’t appear desperate in your sales discussions. If there’s one thing buyers can smell a mile away, Petrone says, it’s a desperate salesperson.
  5. Spend more time in nature. Getting outside can give you an edge in your sales career. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or you prefer a stroll around the neighborhood, Petrone says getting outside can be a great way to reconnect and refresh.
  6. Explore some hobbies. Doing so can give you some balance in your life. You shouldn’t always be thinking about sales, so cultivate some interests outside of work.
  7. Read some fiction. If you typically read sales or business books, add some fiction to your list. When you read stories with fictional characters, you put yourself in their shoes, which can give you more empathy for your prospects.
  8. Wake up early. According to Petrone’s findings, an early wake-up time can build resilience and energy. If you’re not a morning person, that early alarm can be painful. Try to stick to it, though. It can make a big difference on how you feel for the rest of the day.

Borrow a few of these ideas and see what works for you. Maybe going for more regular walks or working some fiction into your reading can help you think better on your feet, connect more meaningfully and show up in the best possible way for your clients.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Paul Petrone is a senior content marketing manager at LinkedIn.