Verbal or nonverbal signs of a customer's readiness to buy are called:

• A. Buying signals
• B. Buying triggers
• C. Sales leads
• D. Objections

Answer: (A)

Recognizing customer readiness cues in the sales process—buying signals—are verbal or nonverbal cues that show a customer is ready to buy. These signals indicate interest and intent to purchase, so noticing them helps you know when to move toward closing. Verbal examples include questions about price, availability, or payment options, or direct statements like “I’ll take it.” Nonverbal examples include leaning forward, nodding, or handling the product with visible interest. When you spot these cues, it’s a good time to advance the conversation toward committing to the sale.

Buying signals differ from buying triggers, which are the reasons or events that prompt someone to buy (like a sale or deadline) but aren’t themselves indicators that the customer is prepared to purchase. Sales leads are potential customers who might become buyers, not indications of immediate readiness. Objections are concerns to be addressed and overcome, not signs that the customer is ready to buy.