Looking for a new CRM system for your company? Define your terms first! If you would argue with me, first define your terms! This famous challenge was first made by French philosopher Voltaire way back in the seventeenth century, yet it finds complete applicability today—especially when it comes to the specification and selection of sales ... Read Post

Sales reps often complain that traditional, cumbersome CRM systems benefit sales management, not the sales force. What the reps can’t see—simply because they are not there—is that sales management is suffering because of these CRM systems also. Due to sheer numbers of personnel, transactions and demands, a sales manager’s job can be seriously complex and ... Read Post

We’ve all been there. A sales forecast is done and a corresponding sales quota set for a quarter or a year. About four-fifths of the way through that sales period everyone realizes that without a few miracles the quota will not be met. In the last few weeks, miracles are indeed brought about—and the sales ... Read Post

Fact. Without leads, there are no sales. Which means if you want your B2B organisation to thrive, you need to have an effective lead generation strategy. And with so many options to choose from, how do you decide what’s right for you? For sure you could stick with traditional strategies such as cold calling (which ... Read Post

Are you looking for a CRM implementation guide to ensure that you don’t miss the crucial elements of a successful CRM solution implementation? All too often a company purchases a CRM solution, implements it, and gets everyone using it—without having taken some very necessary steps beforehand. It then comes as kind of a nasty surprise ... Read Post

Trade shows and exhibitions tend to be one of the most expensive forms of marketing. And because of the costs incurred, many businesses are deterred from exploring the opportunities they present in any real seriousness. This could be a mistake. That’s because with the right approach and strategy, trade shows and exhibitions can become lucrative ... Read Post

The fine blending of skill and automation can be illustrated with drivers and automobiles. In the early part of the twentieth century, for example, “automation” was crude: many cars had to be started by cranking them from the front. Once started, the driver had to know where the gears were, how to operate a clutch, ... Read Post

For over twenty years now, CRM solutions have been a bone of contention between company executives and the sales force. The executives want something that coordinates customer activities between various departments including sales, and allows them to monitor sales and make sure salespeople are selling. On the other hand sales reps, sick to death of ... Read Post