Public transportation makes sales more productive

I don't know any salespeople or consultants who take the train. They're all in company cars. And that means they're stuck in traffic.

Why? "I have to go to multiple locations. And be presentable to customers."

Nonsense.

Now that we're conducting interviews online, how often do you need to be at multiple locations in a single day? And how many customers see your car or ride along?

When I rush past the traffic jam on the train, I only see 1 driver per car.

After years of driving as a salesperson and entrepreneur, I've now tested the train for a full year, once or twice a week to clients throughout the country.

Why? Because I was done with traffic jams. Even during the day. Being late again, or arriving somewhere stressed. And then a whiny explanation of how busy it is...

My proposition? Want to be truly productive as a salesperson or consultant? Take the train.

The benefits at a glance:

• Predictable delays – the train is on time and the delay is a maximum of 10 minutes. Accident on the road? No idea how long you'll be stuck. Experience? Easily 20 minutes or more. Not to mention having to take a detour, so you'll arrive even later.

• Real-time track information in the app – what if a train is cancelled or delayed? You can see this in advance in 9292 and plan accordingly.

• Your customer will understand "a little later" – if you're stuck due to a track problem, for example. Customers understand that faster than by car, where everyone thinks, "Leave earlier."

• More productive – you can think calmly, call clients, and catch up on emails. I find that you arrive at your destination feeling fitter and with a happy vibe.

• Healthier – I cycle to the station, walk between platforms, or walk to my destination appointment; in short, exercise and fresh air versus sitting in my car.

• More sustainable – of course it’s better for the environment.

• Cheaper – there's no additional tax and no fuel costs. My travel expenses are 30% lower this year.

• More efficient – with your debit card or free NS Business Pass, you can park your bike and board. And every station has more food and drink options than any other gas station.

• Driving becomes more fun – sometimes a customer is lying in a really awkward position, forcing me to change seats a lot, and then the car ride becomes an outing.

Do you also smile with your coffee in hand as you whizz past the traffic jam? Or do you still show up for appointments thinking, "Gosh, were you stuck in traffic too? It was stuck again..."