Up Your Sales Game: Call Your Mom
- Sue Skavlem
- Oct 28
- 2 min read
October 2025 | Sue Skavlem
Visual photos, illustrations, and infographics are all part of sales and marketing today.
Want to know what headshot to use?
Want to know which graph makes the most sense?
Want to see which product photo is more exciting?
Call your mom.
3 Reasons I Call My Mom Before a Big Sales Pitch
1. My mom loves me, but she doesn't know all my industry jargon.
2. She knows what she likes based on what she doesn't like - most people do.
3. Her headshot opinion will be the best one 99% of the time
The Value of an Outside Perspective
Selecting visuals can be overwhelming. Often, we get caught up in industry terms and technical details that may not matter to a general audience. Your mom, however, brings a fresh viewpoint. She might not know the intricacies of your field, but she can tell what catches her eye.
For example, if you’re deciding on branding images for a new organic snack, her response to a bright, appealing photo compared to a dull one can provide clarity. Her perspective can reveal which images evoke the right feelings and which ones miss the mark. In fact, studies show that more diverse feedback can lead to a 30% increase in the effectiveness of marketing campaigns.
Simplifying Your Message
Go call your mom and ask her if you can do a quick show and tell of your latest project.
Talking to someone who knows you, but is not familiar with your industry jargon is the perfect way to simplify your message.
This exercise helps clarify your message and makes your visuals accessible to a wider audience.
Filling the Gaps
While your mom may not specialize in your line of work, she can help pinpoint gaps in your visuals. If something isn’t clear to her, it likely won’t be clear to a wider audience either.
Mom's are also more engaged/candid than most people taking a survey Use her valuable feedback to up your communication gam.
For instance, if she mentions that a complex chart makes her head spin, take that feedback seriously. Add in a story or context that grabs her attention and her emotions.
Preparing for Launch
So, the next time you encounter a challenging decision about which image to use or which graphic to select, consider reaching out to your mom.
Her feedback could unlock the potential of your next project or pitch
About the Author
Sue from Skavlem Designs
When I make a design, I think – What can this do?
These designs don’t just exist. These designs DO. They work hard alongside you and your business. These designs are levers. They are sales. They are engaged customers. They are brand recognition that gets you that meeting.
Top 3 things I love to do: Read. Paint. Snowboard.
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