Went to my bank a few days ago. It's a Bank of America. The tellers had music playing in the background while I was waiting in line. The song? "Highway to Hell" by the rock group KISS. Totally inappropriate for a bank, in my opinion. 
Went to my daughter's dentist today for her appointment. We checked in, and took a seat in the waiting room. They had a radio playing in the background as well, tuned (loudly) to a local rap music station. Totally inappropriate for a dentist's office, in my opinion.
What does this have to do with sales? It distracts from your presentation. Your image. Your credibility. And, ultimately, your chances of gaining (or retaining) customers.
The bank sells itself as a trustworthy, professional place to hold your money and supply financial products. "Highway to Hell" doesn't promote that sales message.
The dentist office sells itself as a skilled, professional choice for your dental health. Loud hip-hop music blaring from the waiting room doesn't promote that sales message. 
My question for you: Is there something that you're doing that might distract your customers from hearing your sales message?
Gum chewing? Sloppy dressing? Lack of eye contact? Not smiling? Incorrect use of the English language? All of those things can ruin your credibility, and your chances of making the sale.
Hi Dan,
I enjoy reading your blog. You may inspire me to start one soon. I notice you read Set Godin and Jeffery Gittomer a lot and I do to so I think we may have a kindred spirit.
While the music you mention is totally innappropriate your reporting is inacurate. "Highway to Hell" is by a band called AC/DC.
Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Greg | April 27, 2006 3:18 PM | Permalink to Comment