Selling yourself out of a slump starts with a proactive attitude. Get out there and meet with as many customers and prospects as you can--whether it's face-to-face meetings, networking events or follow-up appointments.

Then it's just a matter of moving contacts to the next step in the sales cycle. Sell them on a presentation, demonstration, product test or anything else that will bring them closer to buying. Progress builds confidence.

Lastly, compile ideas on how you can help your prospects and customers grow their businesses. Remove what you're selling from your mind. Think instead about what your customers are buying. What motivates them? If you focus on building your customers' businesses, you'll end up building your own.

Martin Huckle