The principle. "So what do you think?" is not a close. It's a survey. A close asks for a specific action with a specific time.
The 4 close formats.
- Direct. "Want me to write this up?" or "Ready to move forward?"
- Assumptive. "I'll get the paperwork started — sound good?"
- Alternative. "Do you want the standard package or the premium?"
- Trial. "If we did this, when would you want it installed?"
Pick the one that matches the buyer. Bull: direct. Owl: trial. Lamb: alternative (gives a small choice). Tiger: assumptive (matches their vision-forward energy).
Then shut up. Once you ask, the next person to speak loses.
Key takeaway. A closed question with a specific action beats an open question every time.