Sales Tricks vs. Sales Treats

With Halloween just days away, let’s talk about the difference between tricks and treats in sales.

Because let’s be honest—nothing gives sales a worse reputation than manipulative “tricks.” Pressure tactics, fake urgency, and saying whatever it takes just to get a yes.

Here’s the thing: tricks might get you a quick win, but they don’t build trust. And without trust, there’s no lasting relationship.

That’s where treats come in. Treats aren’t about gimmicks—they’re about creating genuine moments of connection. They’re the little extras that make people remember you, want to come back, and actually look forward to hearing from you again.

🍪 Personal confession: my favorite treat…cookies. I’m obsessed with gifting custom cookies. There’s a lovely woman here in Milwaukee—Annette at Edible Impressions—who can make a cookie in the shape of anything. And let’s just say, I’ve sent more cookies than Starbucks sells PSLs in October.

I’ve used them for marketing campaigns, to catch a prospect’s eye I’ve been wanting to work with, or simply to say, “Hey—you make my life better.” If you haven’t gotten a cookie from me yet…stick around long enough, and there’s a good chance you will.

Over the years, these cookies have led to everything from my highest revenue year to deepening relationships with people I admire. Why? Because the key to a treat is giving with no expectation of getting something in return. Just like the kids who show up at your door on Halloween night—you don’t expect them to hand anything back. You just give because it’s fun, joyful, and meaningful.

And here’s the best part: when you give treats with a pure heart, the universe has a funny way of rewarding you.

🎃 Sales Tricks vs. Sales Treats

• Trick: Sending a “just checking in” email to push urgency.
• Treat: Sending an article, podcast, or note that genuinely helps or makes their day brighter.
• Trick: Offering a fake deadline to pressure a yes.
• Treat: Giving a real incentive that supports their decision when they are ready.
• Trick: Pitching without listening.
• Treat: Asking curious questions that help them gain clarity—even if they don’t buy today.

So this Halloween, here’s your reminder: skip the tricks. Choose the treats. And watch how much sweeter your sales results become.

P.S. If I could, I’d sneak a cookie into your trick-or-treat bucket right now. Until then, consider this email your sales sugar rush—no cavities included.