The Changing Face of Sales
The sales process is changing from one of being process driven to one of relying on the insight and judgment of the sales representative. Why is this? Today’s customers can now find their own information about products, pricing, quality, and service levels for any industry or product. In other words, the customer is relying less on the sales person to “sell” them on the benefits of goods and services. More than likely, the customer has already sold themselves before they ever enter a store, showroom or sales event. Therefore, the sales professional requires less adherence to protocols, inspection, direction, and structure. What is needed is more guidance and support from managers. This fact alone demands a coaching platform. There are, however, considerations to examine.
Many managers lack coaching skills. Outside coaches can be brought in to achieve the task and this works well as a successful coaching relationship does not require years of having an established relationship, but rather trust is the key. Once trust is established and the coach and coachee feel they work well together, then great progress is achievable. In addition, it is wise to be sure a coach has good credentials.
An effective coach is one who is certified or has other credentials such as education and experience. If managers are to be the coaches, they will require extensive training, practice, and yes coaching. A good coach is not developed overnight and an investment of time and money will be required. Obviously, an experienced outside coach can get the program up to speed quickly. To begin, an outside coach may be brought in until your team of managers can be brought up to speed. Then reliance on the outside coach would become less and managers would gradually take over the process. Still they will need periodic coaching and this may be left to the outside coach. Coaching is not a one size fits all or cure. Coaching still needs the support of the executive office, data, training, technology, creating a personal development plan, evaluation, and assessments in order to be effective.
If you would like more information about how to begin a coaching program in your organization, please give me a call at 404-320-7834 and schedule a no obligation, 30-minute consultation. Do it today!
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