How to Sneak Away on Vacation for Secret Sales Calls (Without Getting Caught)
Vacation is a time to unwind, soak up the sun, and pretend work doesn’t exist. At least, that’s the fantasy. But for sales professionals, there’s always that little voice whispering in our crazy little brains, "Your quota doesn’t care about your out-of-office reply."
So, how do you keep the deal flow going while convincing your spouse you’re fully present for that sunset beach walk? Here’s your strategic guide to covert customer interactions while on vacation.
1. Early Morning “Wellness Walk”
While your family sleeps in, you can “prioritize your health” with a brisk morning walk—one that conveniently includes a few customer check-ins. Pop in your earbuds, keep your voice low, and blend in with the other early risers who are actually meditating instead of negotiating pricing.
2. The Classic “Bathroom Break” Excuse
A long-standing favorite of sales reps everywhere. The key to making this work? Timing. A quick “I’ll be right back” before the piña coladas arrive buys you a solid 10 minutes of sales activity. Just remember: mute is your best friend. Background noise can be a dealbreaker… literally.
3. The “Mysterious Errand” Tactic
Forget a toothbrush? Need more sunscreen? Perfect. Offer to run the errand alone, then park yourself in a shady spot with good cell service. Just don’t make it too obvious—if you come back from the gift shop with nothing but a contract signature, questions will be asked, and laptops might be seized.
4. Poolside Disguise Strategy
Sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and a strategic lounge chair positioning make for an excellent undercover operation. Keep your laptop or phone out of direct sight, nod occasionally like you’re simply enjoying the breeze, and if questioned, mumble something about “checking local tide charts.”
5. The Fake Nap Cover
Claim exhaustion from all the fun and suggest a midday nap. Once safely “resting,” you can crack open your laptop for some quick deal updates. If your spouse walks in, shut your eyes immediately. Bonus points for a light snore.
Final Thoughts
You should be on vacation, and your spouse should believe you are. But in sales, quota waits for no one. With a little creativity, you can keep your numbers strong while still making memories. Just don’t forget to actually relax :)
