A different stance

Today brought a different kind of learning. Here is what happened:

1. I added five teachers on WeChat. Several preferred that I speak with students instead. I am not sure they need our service, but a contact leaves room for a conversation. The last teacher asked about price and I was caught off guard. We had covered that in training; I had not learned it well enough to use it. Next time I want to explain clearly which prices I can give and which require a technical specialist.
2. I approached people more as an equal, neither timid nor pushy. It worked better because I genuinely believe I may be able to help. Before, I had sounded as if I were begging for a favor.
3. I now have brochures, but they mostly describe a prepaid offer for teachers and are less useful with students.
4. I still need a stronger mental routine before outreach than a brief pep talk each morning.
5. I met students my own age and enjoyed our conversations. That built rapport, but I talked too long at times. I also find it hard to eat before I have finished my task. I am not sure whether that helps me.
6. I have considered carrying small gifts for three days. Perhaps candy is enough; a marker or reagent requested on a lab door is not the basis for a useful professional relationship. The teachers’ needs will decide whether we do business.
7. My question about external testing sometimes leads to “we have little need” or “we have a regular provider,” and then I struggle to continue. I need a better response.

Here is my revised script for June 23.

Price

If someone asks, “How much?” I can say: “I can give a reference price for standard tests. For work that depends on the sample, parameters, or special requirements, our technical specialist must confirm the quote. May I first understand what you need?” If they press, I can give a reference figure where I have one, but make clear the final quote needs confirmation. If I know nothing about the price, I should say so and promise to check, rather than improvise.

An existing provider

If a group has a regular testing partner, I can acknowledge that as a good sign. I am offering a backup for queues or unusual work, not insisting they replace someone they trust. If they do not want a longer conversation, “Another option may be useful later” is enough.

Little or no current need

Research groups do not need outside testing every day. If a need comes suddenly, a second contact could help. I can leave my details and move on instead of forcing a request for WeChat.

A teacher sends me to students

I can agree to speak with the students. If it is welcome, I can also offer my contact to the teacher for a future need. I should accept a refusal.

A technical question I cannot answer

“This requires technical detail, and I do not want to give you a wrong answer. I will check with our specialist and get back to you.” Not knowing something is manageable; making up an answer is unprofessional.

A sales book I ordered, Juedui Chengjiao (“Absolute Closing”), arrived today in English. I want to share daily reading notes on WeChat Moments and slowly build credibility in the field. I also need to sort out my phone by July 2 so it does not interfere with work.