Author: David Matney

We’ve all been there: the alarm clock screams, the weekend feels like a distant memory, and the mountain of tasks ahead looms large. Monday mornings can be tough, but they don’t have to be. How you start your week sets the tone for everything that follows. This post dives into the power of motivation and provides practical tips to help you conquer your week, starting with a powerful Monday.

The Motivation Myth (and What Actually Works)

Motivation isn’t some magical, fleeting feeling that either you have or you don’t. It’s a skill you can cultivate, a muscle you can strengthen. The truth is, motivation often follows action, not the other way around. Waiting for inspiration to strike is a recipe for procrastination. Instead, focus on building momentum.

Why Monday Matters

Monday isn’t just the start of the work week; it’s a fresh start. It’s an opportunity to set intentions, prioritize tasks, and build positive momentum. A strong Monday can lead to a productive, successful week, while a sluggish Monday can leave you playing catch-up.

Strategies for a Motivated Monday (and Beyond!)

Here are some actionable strategies to kickstart your motivation and make the most of your Mondays (and every other day of the week):

• Plan Ahead: Don’t let Sunday night slip away without a quick review of the week ahead. Jot down your top priorities, schedule important meetings, and break down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety and fosters a sense of control.
• Start Small, Win Big: Tackling the biggest, most daunting task first thing Monday morning can be overwhelming. Instead, start with a small, achievable win. Completing a quick task early in the day builds momentum and gives you a sense of accomplishment, setting you up for further success.
• Embrace the Power of Routine: A consistent morning routine can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a quick workout, a healthy breakfast, or a few minutes of mindfulness, a routine helps you transition smoothly into work mode and sets a positive tone for the day.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Burnout is the enemy of motivation. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, and taking breaks throughout the day. Even short bursts of activity or relaxation can make a big difference.
• Find Your “Why”: Connect with the purpose behind your work. Understanding how your tasks contribute to a larger goal can boost motivation and make even mundane tasks feel more meaningful.
• Minimize Distractions: Identify your biggest distractions and take steps to minimize them. Turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and create a dedicated workspace where you can focus.
• Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. This reinforces positive behavior and keeps you motivated to keep moving forward.
• Don’t Beat Yourself Up: Everyone has off days. If you have a less productive Monday than you’d hoped, don’t dwell on it. Learn from it, adjust your approach, and focus on making the rest of the week count.
• Connect with Others: Surround yourself with positive, supportive people. Sharing your goals and challenges with others can provide encouragement and accountability.

The Takeaway

Motivation isn’t a magic trick; it’s a skill you can develop. By implementing these strategies, you can transform your Mondays from a source of dread to a springboard for success. Remember, starting the week off right is the first step towards achieving your goals and living a more fulfilling life. So, take control of your Monday mindset and conquer your week!

What are your favorite Monday morning motivation tips? Share them in the comments below!

Happy Selling,

David

My daughter is getting married tomorrow ! I am so excited for her and her fiancé as they start this new chapter in their lives. It is hard to believe that my little girl is all grown up, but I couldn’t be happier for her.

As I reflect on her upcoming wedding, I can’t help but think about all the wonderful things that marriage has to offer. Here are the top 10 things that I am most excited about for my daughter and her soon-to-be husband:

From the Home Office in Brandon, Mississippi,

Here are this Friday’s Top 10 things about My daughter getting married

10. A lifelong partner. Marriage is a commitment to love and support each other through thick and thin. I know that my daughter and her fiancé have found true love in each other, and I am excited for them to have a partner to share their lives with.

9. A new family. When you get married, you not only gain a spouse, but you also gain a whole new family. I am looking forward to welcoming my new son-in-law into our family, and I know that he will be a wonderful addition.

8. The wedding day. The wedding day is a special day to celebrate love and commitment. I am so excited to watch my daughter walk down the aisle and say “I do” to the man of her dreams.

7. The honeymoon. After all the excitement of the wedding, the honeymoon is a time for the newlyweds to relax and enjoy each other’s company. I am sure that my daughter and her fiancé will have a wonderful time on their honeymoon.

6. Starting a family. I know that my daughter and her fiancé are excited to start a family of their own someday. I can’t wait to be a grandparent!

5. Growing old together. Marriage is a journey, not a destination. I am excited for my daughter and her fiancé to grow old together and share all of life’s adventures.

4. A new home. I know that my daughter and her fiancé are looking forward to creating a home of their own. I am excited to see what their new home will look like.

3. New traditions. Marriage is a time to start new traditions. I am excited to see what traditions my daughter and her fiancé will create together.

2. A stronger relationship. Marriage can help to strengthen a couple’s relationship. I know that my daughter and her fiancé will only grow closer to each other as they navigate the challenges and joys of marriage.

And the #1 Friday’s Top 10 things about my daughter getting married is…

1. A lifetime of love and happiness. I wish my daughter and her fiancé a lifetime of love and happiness together. I know that they will have a wonderful marriage.

I am so happy for my daughter and her fiancé. I know that they will have a wonderful wedding and a happy marriage.

Bonus:

• The father-daughter dance. I am already getting teary-eyed thinking about the father-daughter dance. It will be a special moment that I will cherish forever.
• Seeing my daughter happy. There is nothing more important to me than my daughter’s happiness. I know that she has found true happiness with her fiancé, and that makes me so happy.

My wife and I are so excited for my daughter and her fiancé as they embark on this new journey together. We know that they will have a wonderful wedding and a happy marriage.

In addition to the above, here are some other things that We are excited about for our daughter and her fiancé:

• The opportunity to travel together. I know that my daughter and her fiancé love to travel, and I am excited for them to have the opportunity to explore the world together as husband and wife.
• The chance to learn and grow together. Marriage is a constant learning experience. I am excited for my daughter and her fiancé to learn and grow together as they navigate the ups and downs of life.
• The joy of sharing life’s milestones together. I am excited for my daughter and her fiancé to share all of life’s milestones together, from buying their first home to having children to celebrating their anniversaries.

We are so grateful that my daughter has found such a wonderful man to spend her life with. We know that they will have a long and happy marriage together. Now if you excuse me I have a rehearsal dinner and speech to prepare for…

Have a Great Weekend,

David

This Saturday, my little girl walks down the aisle. It feels like just yesterday she was learning to walk, ride a bike, and now… well, now she’s starting a whole new chapter of her life. It’s a beautiful thing, and I couldn’t be happier for her and her soon-to-be husband. But man, is it an emotional ride!

One minute I’m beaming with pride, the next I’m swallowing back tears. I’m excited for them, nostalgic for the past, and maybe just a tiny bit terrified of the future. It’s a whirlwind of feelings, and I’m sure any parent who’s been through this can relate.

But here’s the thing: this emotional rollercoaster got me thinking about something seemingly unrelated – sales.

Stay with me here.

As a father, I want the best for my daughter. I want her to be happy, secure, and taken care of. And that takes me back to those early conversations with my now son-in-law, where I subtly (or maybe not so subtly) grilled him about his plans and his ability to provide for my daughter.

Now, imagine yourself a salesperson. Your clients, those business owners, they’re like me in this scenario. They’re fiercely protective of their businesses, their “babies.” They want the best for them: growth, security, and smooth operations.

And that’s where the empathy comes in. Just like I’m experiencing a whirlwind of emotions, your clients are dealing with their own anxieties and aspirations for their businesses. They need someone who understands that, someone who can connect with them on a deeper level.

Here’s how my fatherly emotions translate into sales lessons:

• Build genuine relationships: It’s not just about closing the deal; it’s about building trust and rapport. Just like I wanted to know my son-in-law truly cared for my daughter, your clients need to know you genuinely care about their business’s success.
• Understand their fears: Starting a new business or even just navigating the day-to-day can be scary. Acknowledge those fears and address them head-on with solutions and support.
• Highlight the long-term vision: Just like I’m envisioning a happy future for my daughter and her husband, help your clients see how your services can contribute to their long-term growth and stability.
• Be a trusted advisor: Go beyond just selling a product. Offer valuable insights, guidance, and support. Become a partner in their success.

So, as I raise a toast to my daughter and her new husband this Saturday, I’ll also be raising a toast to all the merchant services salespeople out there. May you always remember the power of empathy, the importance of genuine connection, and the impact you can have on the lives and businesses of your clients.

And to my beautiful daughter and wonderful son-in-law: Congratulations! Dad loves you both very much.

Happy Selling,

David

it’s easy to get caught up in the features and benefits of your offerings. You might have the best rates, the most innovative technology, and the most comprehensive support, but if you can’t communicate effectively with potential clients, you’re going to lose out.

Think about it. Have you ever been interested in a product, but the salesperson was so pushy or aggressive that it turned you off? Or maybe they were so monotone and unenthusiastic that you couldn’t even bring yourself to care?

The same goes for selling. It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Build Rapport: Before you even start talking about your services, take the time to build rapport with your potential client. Ask them about their business, their challenges, and their goals. Show genuine interest in their success.

2. Listen Actively: Don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Really listen to what your client has to say. Ask clarifying questions and show that you’re engaged in the conversation.

3. Speak Their Language: Avoid using technical jargon or industry buzzwords that your client might not understand. Instead, use clear, concise language that they can easily grasp.

4. Tailor Your Pitch: Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Tailor your pitch to the specific needs and interests of your client. Highlight the features and benefits that are most relevant to them.

5. Be Confident and Enthusiastic: Your passion for your services will be contagious. Speak with confidence and enthusiasm, and let your client know that you’re genuinely excited about helping them grow their business.

6. Address Concerns Head-On: Don’t shy away from addressing any concerns or objections that your client might have. Be prepared to answer their questions honestly and transparently.

7. Close with Confidence: When it’s time to close the deal, do so with confidence. Summarize the key benefits of your services and reiterate how they can help your client achieve their goals.

Remember, selling merchant services is about building relationships, not just closing deals. By focusing on effective communication and building trust with your clients, you can set yourself apart from the competition and achieve long-term success.

Happy Selling,

David

Who says sales has to be boring? Let’s take a cue from the late, great Chris Farley and his iconic character, Tommy Callahan. While some might argue, I believe Tommy Boy is arguably one of the best sales movies ever made. While Tommy might not have been the sharpest tool in the shed, he certainly knew how to hustle and close a deal.

Here are a few sales lessons we can learn from Tommy Boy:

1. Persistence Pays Off

Tommy Boy was relentless. He didn’t take no for an answer. No matter how many times he was rejected, he kept pushing forward. Persistence is key in sales. Keep following up, keep pitching, and eventually, you’ll break through.

2. The Power of Humor

Humor can be a powerful tool in sales. It can help to build rapport with clients and make your presentations more memorable. Tommy Boy was a master of comedy, and he used it to his advantage. While you don’t have to be a stand-up comedian, a little humor can go a long way.

3. The Importance of Teamwork

Tommy Boy couldn’t have done it alone. He had a loyal sidekick, Richard Hayden, who helped him every step of the way. A strong support system is essential for any salesperson. Surround yourself with positive, motivated people who can help you achieve your goals.

4. The Art of the Pitch

Tommy Boy’s pitches might not have been the most polished, but they were certainly passionate. Passion is contagious. When you’re passionate about your product or service, it shows. And when you’re passionate, your clients will be more likely to buy into what you’re selling.

5. Never Give Up

Even when things looked bleak, Tommy Boy never gave up. He always found a way to turn things around. Never give up on a sale. Keep fighting, keep believing, and you’ll eventually find a way to close the deal.

So, the next time you’re feeling down about a sales call or a lost deal, remember Tommy Boy. Remember his persistence, his humor, his teamwork, his passion, and his unwavering belief in himself. With the right attitude and effort, you too can be a sales superstar.

What other sales lessons can we learn from Tommy Boy? Share your thoughts

Happy Selling,

David

March has arrived, and with it comes a breath of fresh air and a renewed sense of possibility. For merchant services salespeople, spring isn’t just a season; it’s an opportunity. Businesses are shaking off the winter doldrums, preparing for increased customer traffic, and reevaluating their operations. This makes it the perfect time to connect with them and offer solutions that help them blossom.

Mondays can be tough. But not for you, Like Spring, Monday’s are a fresh start, a chance to connect with businesses who need your help. Think of it this way: every Monday is a new opportunity to:

• Increase revenue: Help businesses streamline their payment processing and boost their bottom line.
• Build relationships: Become a trusted advisor to business owners in your community.
• Make a difference: Empower businesses to thrive in today’s competitive market.

This Week’s Focus:

• Prospecting: Don’t wait for leads to come to you. Get out there and network! Attend local events, join business groups, and leverage your online presence.
• Value-based selling: Focus on the benefits of your services, not just the features. How can you solve your clients’ pain points and help them achieve their goals?
• Closing the deal: Be confident, be persistent, and be prepared to answer any questions.

Monday Motivation:

Remember why you do what you do. You’re not just selling credit card processing; you’re providing solutions that help businesses grow and succeed.

Pro Tip:

Start your week strong by setting clear goals and creating a plan of action.

Spring is a season of opportunity for merchant services salespeople. By implementing these strategies, you can cultivate new leads, nurture existing relationships, bloom your sales strategy, showcase your expertise, and reap the rewards of long-term growth. So, get out there, connect with businesses, and help them spring into success with the right payment solutions!

Let’s make this week your best one yet!

Happy Selling,

David

Say goodbye to winter’s chill and hello to the vibrant month of March! While it might be known for unpredictable weather and the madness of college basketball, there’s much more to this month than meets the eye. Let’s dive into this Friday’s Top 10 fascinating facts about March:

From the Home office in March, Missouri,

Here are the Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know About the month of March,

10. A Month of Transformation: March is a time of rebirth and renewal, symbolized by the spring equinox when day and night are equal in length. It’s when nature awakens, animals come out of hibernation, and we feel that urge to shake off the winter blues and embrace new beginnings.

9. Honoring the God of War: March gets its name from “Martius,” the first month of the early Roman calendar. It was named after Mars, the Roman god of war, as it was the time when military campaigns resumed after the winter lull.

8. Beware the Ides! March 15th marks the infamous “Ides of March,” a day of historical significance due to the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC. While it’s not necessarily a cause for alarm today, it’s a good reminder to be aware of your surroundings!

7. A Month of Celebration: From International Women’s Day to St. Patrick’s Day, March is packed with celebrations. It’s a time to honor achievements, embrace cultural traditions, and simply enjoy the company of loved ones.

6. Springing Forward: In many parts of the world, Daylight Saving Time begins in March, giving us that extra hour of daylight to savor. It’s a reminder that brighter days are ahead!

5. Madness Takes Over: For sports fans, March means one thing: March Madness! The NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments dominate the sports world, bringing excitement, upsets, and bracket-busting moments.

4. A Time for Productivity… or Not? While March brings the promise of spring fever, it can also be a challenging time for productivity, thanks to distractions like March Madness and the allure of warmer weather.

3. Double the Birthstone, Double the Fun: March boasts not one, but two birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine, with its tranquil blue hue, symbolizes courage and clarity, while bloodstone is associated with strength and vitality.

2. Blooming Beauty: March’s birth flower is the daffodil, a cheerful symbol of hope, new beginnings, and resilience.

And the #1 Top 10 Thing You Didn’t Know About the month of March is …

1. From Lion to Lamb: As the saying goes, “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” This refers to the often unpredictable weather patterns of the month, starting with stormy conditions and transitioning to milder temperatures as spring approaches.

Bonus Fact: St. Patrick’s Day Isn’t Just About Green Beer! While many associate St. Patrick’s Day with parades, green attire, and festive beverages, it originally started as a religious holiday honoring Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. He is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland and is often associated with the shamrock, a three-leaf clover used to explain the Holy Trinity.

So there you have it! Ten fun facts to make you appreciate the month of March even more. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, cheering on your favorite basketball team, or simply enjoying the longer days, make the most of this exciting month!

Have a great weekend,

David

It’s hard to believe that my little girl is getting married! The big day is almost here – March 8th – and the excitement and stress of it all is reaching fever pitch. Between dress fittings, cake tastings, showers and seating chart dramas (you wouldn’t believe who can’t sit next to whom!), it’s been a whirlwind. But amidst all the chaos, something unexpected happened: I stumbled upon a whole new world of sales opportunities!

You see, planning a wedding is like running a small business. You’ve got vendors to manage, budgets to balance, and contracts to negotiate. And as we navigated this intricate dance, I realized that many of the businesses involved could benefit from the services I offer – merchant services.

Here’s a glimpse of the new verticals I’ve discovered:

• Wedding Venues: These guys are the cornerstone of the whole operation! They need reliable payment processing to handle deposits, final payments, and on-site bar tabs. Streamlining their transactions and offering various payment options can be a game-changer.
• Wedding Coordinators: The unsung heroes of every successful wedding. They juggle a million tasks and often handle vendor payments. Providing them with efficient payment solutions and reporting tools can simplify their lives and make them even more effective.
• DJs and Entertainment: No party without music! These folks need to get paid, and many are moving towards digital contracts and online payments. Offering them mobile processing solutions and secure invoicing options is a surefire win.
• Photo Booths and Photographers: Capturing those precious memories is essential to us, and these vendors need to manage bookings, print orders, and payments seamlessly. Integrated payment systems and online galleries can boost their sales and customer satisfaction.
• Bakeries, Florists, and Caterers: The creative geniuses behind the wedding feast and décor. They often deal with large orders and require flexible payment options to accommodate clients. Offering them custom solutions, including recurring billing for tastings or consultations, can be a valuable asset.

And that’s not all! I’ve also connected with:

• Jewelry stores: For those all-important rings (and maybe a little something sparkly for the mother of the bride!).
• Hair and makeup artists: Who ensure everyone looks their absolute best.
• Transportation companies: Getting everyone to the venue on time.

Who knew wedding planning could be such a fertile ground for business development? It just goes to show that opportunities can be found in the most unexpected places.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, we have to go finalize the seating chart… again! Wish us luck!

Happy Selling,

David

Let’s face it: selling merchant services isn’t always a walk in the park. You’re often met with skepticism, hesitation, and even outright resistance. Why? Because many merchants have been burned before.

They’ve dealt with pushy salespeople, hidden fees, and contracts that felt like a trap. They’ve been promised the world and delivered something far less. On top of that, the thought of switching providers seems like a massive hassle.

So, how do you break through these barriers and win over skeptical merchants? It starts with understanding their psychology:

1. “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”: The Fear of Being Burned Again

Past negative experiences leave a lasting impact. Merchants who have been misled or mistreated by previous providers are understandably wary. They fear hidden fees, complicated contracts, and poor customer service.

• Our strategy: Acknowledge their concerns. Openly address the “elephant in the room” by saying something like, “I know you might have had some negative experiences in the past. We’re different…” Then, back up your words with actions. Be transparent about your pricing, offer flexible agreements, and provide exceptional service.

2. “If it Ain’t Broke…”: The Inertia of Sticking with the Status Quo

Even if they’re not completely satisfied with their current provider, merchants may be reluctant to switch. Change can be disruptive, time-consuming, and even a bit scary.

• Our strategy: Highlight the “painless switch.” Emphasize how easy and seamless the transition can be. Offer to handle the paperwork, provide dedicated support and installs, training, and minimize any disruption to their business.

3. “Show Me the Money”: The Need for Tangible Benefits

Merchants are pragmatic. They want to see a clear return on their investment. Vague promises and fluffy marketing jargon won’t cut it.

• Our strategy: Focus on tangible benefits. Quantify the value you offer by showcasing potential value, increased efficiency, and revenue growth. Use data, case studies, and real-world examples to demonstrate your impact.

4. “Time is Money”: The Value of Efficiency

Merchants are busy people. They don’t have time for complicated setups, lengthy contracts, or endless phone calls.

• Our strategy: Streamline the process. Make it as quick and easy as possible for them to understand your services, sign up, and get started. Offer online applications, clear documentation, and responsive support.

5. “What’s the Catch?”: The Skepticism of “Too Good to be True”

If your offer seems too good to be true, merchants may assume there’s a hidden catch.

• Our strategy: Be upfront and honest. Clearly explain your pricing structure, any agreement terms, and any potential fees. Avoid using jargon or making unrealistic promises.

By addressing these psychological barriers head-on, you can build trust, overcome objections, and ultimately win over even the most skeptical merchants.

Remember, it’s about building genuine relationships and demonstrating that you’re a partner they can rely on.

Happy Selling,

David

Who knew that chasing my grandkids around a virtual obstacle course in Roblox could actually make me a better salesperson? It sounds crazy, but it’s true!

Now, for those of you who haven’t been initiated into the world of Roblox (where have you been?!), it’s an online platform where millions of kids (and adults!) create and play games, socialize, and even learn. My grandsons are obsessed, and I’ll admit, I’ve even gotten caught up in a few games myself. “Hide and Seek Extreme” and “Extreme Golf” are my current favorites.

But what does this have to do with sales? More than you might think! Here’s how my Roblox adventures have surprisingly sharpened my sales skills:

1. Understanding the Next Generation of Consumers:

These kids on Roblox are the future of commerce. They’re growing up in a digital world, comfortable with online transactions and virtual currency (Robux, in Roblox’s case). By observing how they interact with this virtual economy, I’m getting a glimpse into the future of payments. This helps me better understand the needs and expectations of my clients, who need to cater to this tech-savvy generation.

2. Finding Common Ground and Building Rapport:

Mentioning Roblox to clients with kids or grandkids instantly breaks the ice. Suddenly, I’m not just a salesperson; I’m a fellow gamer, a grandparent who “gets it.” This shared interest creates a connection and builds trust, opening the door for more meaningful conversations.

3. Explaining Complex Concepts in a Relatable Way:

Believe it or not, Roblox has actually helped me explain payment processing concepts more clearly. For example, I can use the analogy of buying Robux to illustrate the importance of secure online transactions. “Just like you want to ensure your grandkids’ Robux purchases are safe, you need a reliable and secure system for your business.”

4. Staying Relevant and Adaptable:

The world is changing rapidly, and staying relevant is crucial in any business. By immersing myself in the world of Roblox, I’m keeping my finger on the pulse of the latest trends and technologies. This helps me adapt my sales approach and offer solutions that meet the evolving needs of my clients.

Beyond the Games:

The key takeaway here is to be genuinely curious about your clients’ world. Whether it’s Roblox, the latest TikTok trend, or their favorite sports team, finding common ground builds relationships and opens doors.

So, the next time you hear a client mention their grandkids and Roblox, don’t just nod politely. Engage! You might be surprised how this seemingly unrelated topic can lead to a stronger business relationship and even a closed deal.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I hear my grandsons calling. It’s time for another round of “Hide and Seek Extreme”!

Happy Selling,

David