t's summertime and the selling is easy, right? OK, so maybe only half of that statement is true - it's summertime. The selling may not be so easy, but challenge can translate to signed contracts by implementing a bit of cool creativity. Consider the following as you steer through sweltering sales streets:

Serve it chilled: When the mercury hits the high notes, let your pitch stay low key. Now's not the time to heat up a presentation. A soft-sell approach is not only savvy, it's sweat free!

Get ready for the rush: It's the smart ISO that advises his or her prospects not to wait until October or November to install equipment for the Christmas season. The summer months are ideal for putting systems in place and working out the bugs before the first holiday sale is rung up.

Stay indoors: An air-conditioned office is ideal for telephone prospecting. Hot weather was made for cold calls. Start setting up appointments today for those revenue checks tomorrow.

Enjoy the open space: You'll encounter less competition and more attention while the masses are on holiday. It also means more time for you to sit down with a prospect and outline your services with minimal interruptions.

Check inventory: With half the year gone, summer is a great time to evaluate what has worked and what needs to be worked on. Review your accounts, compare actual figures against projections and adjust accordingly for year's end success.

Hit the beach: Why should everyone else be hanging ten? Pack up the cooler, unplug the cell phone and stretch out on the sand. Taking a break not only improves your tan, it increases your productivity.