The best way to apologize is to let the customer vent first. Don't interrupt, just take notes and make empathetic noises. You can even tell the customer that it makes you mad too. Second, ask the customer what their speed of need is. Tell them what they ant to hear. That you apologize, that you understand how they feel, that you are meeting with the appropriate people to get a resolve, and that it will be done in 24-hours.

How friendly are your companies' first words? Just try this...start all conversations with customers using one of the following words or phrases: 'great!' 'no problem', 'you're in luck', 'that's my favorite problem'.

Next time someone tells you 'never,' remember that means 'not for at least one hour.'

The most killer questions in sales: "Mr. Jones, when I say (insert your product, your company, or anything you want an opinion about here) what one word comes to mind?" This is the most powerful question because it not only gives you top of mind awareness (the customer "hot button"), it also tells you their attitude towards it.

Change is not a four letter word...but often your reaction to it is!

There is no prize in sales for second place. It's win or nothing. The masters know this and strive for - they fight for - that winning edge.

The key is not to call the decision maker. The key is to have the decision maker call you.