Ask this question after your pitch

You’ve just delivered a stellar pitch. Your prospect nodded along as you highlighted benefits, showcased features, and painted a vision of how your solution transforms their challenges.

Now, silence hangs in the air.

Instead of crossing your fingers and hoping for a “yes,” there’s a single, powerful question that can turn this moment into a deal-making opportunity:

“Based on what we discussed, do you feel like this solves your problem?”

Simple? Yes. Obvious? Maybe. But this question is a game-changer.

Let’s explore why it works, how to ask it, and how to leverage the response to close deals with confidence.

Why This Question Works

This isn’t just another closing tactic—it’s a strategic tool rooted in psychology and communication.

Here’s why it’s transformative:

1. Centers the Conversation on Their Needs
   Your entire pitch should revolve around the prospect’s pain points. By asking this question, you refocus the dialogue on their problem, not your product. It forces them to connect your solution directly to their goals.
2. Reveals Alignment (or Gaps)
   Did your message land? A confident “yes” signals you’re on track. Hesitation? That’s a gift—it uncovers misunderstandings early, giving you a chance to realign before the conversation ends.
3. Unlocks Hidden Objections
   Prospects often withhold concerns to avoid awkwardness. This question creates a safe space for honesty. If they say “no,” you’ve just avoided a stalled deal and gained a chance to address their real worries.
4. Builds Trust Through Empathy
   Framing the question around their feelings shows you care about solving their problem, not just making a sale. This builds rapport and positions you as a partner, not a vendor.
5. Encourages Collaborative Dialogue
   Sales isn’t a monologue. By inviting their input, you turn the pitch into a two-way conversation, fostering buy-in and making the prospect an active participant in the solution.
6. Paves the Path to Commitment
   When someone vocalizes that your solution works, they’re mentally committing. A “yes” here is a psychological stepping stone to finalizing the deal.

How to Ask It Effectively

Timing and delivery matter. Here’s how to nail it:

• Timing Is Key: Ask immediately after your pitch—before discussing price or logistics. This keeps the focus on value.
• Tone Matters: Be calm and curious, not pushy. Say it like you genuinely want feedback (because you do).
• Listen Beyond Words: Watch for body language. A hesitant “yes” or crossed arms may hint at unresolved concerns.

Practice this question until it feels natural. Pair it with a pause—give them space to reflect.

Handling the Response: Yes, No, or Maybe

Their answer dictates your next move. Here’s how to navigate each scenario:

1. “Yes!”
   • Celebrate (Subtly): “That’s great to hear! Let’s outline the next steps.”
   • Act Swiftly: Transition to logistics—contracts, timelines, or onboarding. Strike while the iron’s hot.
2. “No” or “I’m Not Sure”
   • Dig Deeper: Ask, “What part doesn’t fully address your needs?” or “What concerns do you still have?”
   • Adapt: Use their feedback to tweak your offer. Maybe a feature needs emphasis, or a misunderstanding needs clarifying.
3. “Maybe”
   • Unpack Hesitation: “What’s making you uncertain?” or “Is there more information I can provide?”
   • Offer Reassurance: Share case studies, trials, or flexible terms to ease their doubts.

Small Question, Big Impact

In sales, clarity is currency.

The question, “Based on what we discussed, do you feel like this solves your problem?” cuts through ambiguity, aligns expectations, and builds trust.

It’s not just about closing deals—it’s about closing the right deals, where both sides win.

Keep Crushing!
- Sales Guy