When working in sales, training is important and should be something that is implemented regularly.
Athletes don’t spend a day training then leave it at that, they spend each and every day working on their skill set, ensuring they understand the latest techniques and this shouldn’t be any different in the workplace. In a world of rapidly advancing technology, there’s always something new to learn and take advantage of at your desk to make your job easier or improved.
But, is the sales industry less likely to offer formal training to employees? Perhaps, yes, but only in house.
Sales managers simply don’t have the time or the skills to train people regularly, as they attempt to manage a team and ensure leads are picked up and actioned. This is why many companies are now looking to outsource their formal training, contacting the likes of Salestrong or sending employees to trade events featuring industry thought leader, keynote speakers.
Companies are beginning to understand that while they can make cost savings doing training in house, it isn’t benefiting the company in the way they would like and instead impacts on time, hourly costings and potential loss of revenue, as experienced employees are spending time away from their desk.
Employers understand that for their workforce to feel valued, they need to feel like their role is being developed. A stagnant position isn’t great encouragement for staff to stay on and so training can convince them that they are appreciated and that the role requires forward thinking and to embrace innovation within the industry. Your team will appreciate investment in its potential, creating happy employees and a happy sales board.
Within the sales industry formal training is happening, but perhaps isn’t as strong as it should be. Employers will hopefully realise this and begin investing more into their training budget but need to understand that an hour on the employee’s first day isn’t going to cut it, when it comes to creating an informed, reliable workforce that can make those important sales and chase up leads.
Teams must be kept up to date on new techniques, but personal training is also important – encouraging those working for you to club together, improve their attitudes and company culture. A strong, well knitted team that understands how best to tackle an issue together is one that is going to bring home the wins.
If you are an employer ensure you offer formal training, seek outside advice, enlist the services of an expert training company and ensure your employees understand what is expected of them as well as improving their skill set regularly. It’s too important to neglect.
About the Author
Debbie Fletcher is an enthusiastic, experienced writer who has written for a range of different magazines and news publications over the years. Graduating from City University London specialising in English Literature, Debbie’s passion for writing has since grown. She loves anything and everything technology, and exploring different cultures across the world. She’s currently looking towards starting her Masters in Comparative Literature in the next few years.
