Who Are You Accountable To?
One of the most powerful tools in sales—and in life—is accountability. Whether you’re working with a coach, part of a mastermind group, or simply trying to hit personal goals, having someone to answer to makes all the difference.
Here are 10 practical tips to strengthen accountability. Five are for those being held accountable, and five are for those doing the holding.
5 Tips If You’re the One Being Held Accountable
1. Share Your Goals and Invite Input
Accountability isn’t just about reporting results—it’s about collaboration. Let others in on your goals and invite them to offer ideas on how to achieve them.
2. Set Specific Dates to Report Progress
Without deadlines, accountability loses power. Schedule regular check-ins to share updates with your accountability partner.
3. Be Open to Feedback—On Everything
Don’t just talk about end results. Invite feedback on your strategies, habits, and anything else that might affect your progress.
Your goals are probably your quarterly numbers, your monthly numbers, your annual numbers, but get input on the activities that you’re doing to generate those.
4. Listen to Learn, Not to Defend
Resist the urge to argue or justify. Just listen. When you accept input without defensiveness, the relationship becomes more productive.
5. Stick to the Process, Especially When It’s Hard
Don’t duck and run when tough times arise. When things get tough, that’s when you need accountability the most. Don’t cancel meetings when the pressure is on—lean into them.
5 Tips If You’re Holding Someone Accountable
1. Be Invested in Their Success
Your role is not to critique but to coach. Show that you care about their growth, and they’ll trust you with their goals.
2. Offer Feedback as Suggestions
Avoid “I did this” advice. Instead, say, “Have you tried this?” It keeps the conversation supportive rather than defensive.
3. Use Their Past Successes to Coach Forward
When someone is struggling, remind them of previous wins. Help them build confidence by tapping into what’s already worked for them.
4. Celebrate Milestones Together
Accountability shouldn’t feel like punishment. Acknowledge progress, share wins, and make the journey rewarding.
5. Commit Fully to Scheduled Check-ins
If you expect consistency, you must model it. Just as you expect the other person to honor the time commitment of your meetings, you should too. Don’t waffle.
Accountability Is a Two-Way Street
True accountability is mutual. When both people are invested, growth accelerates. It’s about lifting each other up and staying aligned with the bigger goal.
As Mark says: Sales is not a solo activity—sales is a team sport.
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Copyright 2025, Mark Hunter “The Sales Hunter” Sales Motivation Blog. Mark Hunter is the author of A Mind for Sales and High-Profit Prospecting: Powerful Strategies to Find the Best Leads and Drive Breakthrough Sales Results.
