Introduction Sales have often been described as the engine of any business. That is because the ability to sell is a great determinant towards the success of any business. Sales bring in the money and if they outweigh your costs, then it translates into profit. A lot of businesses struggle to make sales and they eventually find themselves out of business. This article will provide a simplified guide to help a beginner prepare and eventually close a sale and actually keep a customer by maintaining a relationship with them. Preparation • Research Start by doing thorough research. One of the most effective ways of learning about the market is by talking to potential customers . Your research should cover the following aspects: I.) Product First understand all aspects of your product. Its flaws, short comings and every other detail that there is to know. The best way to really know your product is by using it yourself. This will help you to answer a lot of key questions that your custome