What can a Power Hour do for your Sales Team?

The KONA Sales “Power Hour” is a focused and intensive period of time, during which your sales teams dedicate themselves to “hitting the phones” and put into action what they have learnt on the workshop. This WILL boost sales performance and drive better results.  

  • Do you want to Increase your Pipeline
  • Do you want to Increase your sales productivity? 
  • Do you want your team to have better than average sales skills? 
  • Do you want your team to manage their time better? 
  • Do you want them to be Accountable? 

A sales power hour is an effective strategy for increasing productivity, boosting sales performance, and achieving better results. During a Power Hour, your Sales Trainer will encourage focused efforts, skill development, and team collaboration, ultimately contributing to the overall success of a sales organisation. 

Some of our results across many customers:

  • Achieved $1.2M of extra sales
  • Increased overall activity by 150%
  • Increased outbound quotes by 88%
  • Increased sales by 66%
  • 140% of sales target (and growing)
  • 19% up on last financial year, Includes 3 record months
  • Increased International Business by 7%
  • Increased Domestic Business by 16%

Are your salespeople hesitant to make calls? Maybe they aren’t engaging with enough customers, prospects or decisions-makers? We can help you to turn that around.

In Sales, every minute counts, and every opportunity matters. This is where the “Power Hour” comes into play.

KONA’s Power Hour is a dedicated, highly focused period of time during which your sales team concentrates on their most important task.

What can a Power Hour can do for your Sales Team?

Enhance Focus and Productivity

The Power Hour is all about intense focus.

During this dedicated time, your sales team can eliminate distractions and concentrate on their high-priority tasks. This heightened level of concentration leads to increased productivity and the ability to accomplish more in a shorter amount of time.

With reduced interruptions, Sales Trainers can encourage team members to make more sales calls, send more emails, and engage with potential customers more effectively.

Garret Norris, KONA Group CEO during a workshop.
Garret Norris – CEO of the KONA Group during a Training Workshop

Improve Time Management

One of the biggest challenges a salesperson faces is managing their time effectively.

The Power Hour helps by encouraging your team to plan and prioritise.

By setting specific goals for each Power Hour session, your team can make better use of their time and ensure they are working on generating revenue.

Consistent Prospecting

Prospecting is a major part of the sales process, but it often gets pushed aside in favour of other tasks.

KONA’s Power Hour Program can help your team to designate a specific time each day for prospecting activities.

This consistency ensures that your sales team is continuously building their pipeline, which is crucial for long-term success.

Increased Sales Calls

Did you know that more than 50% of decision-makers prefer to be contacted over the phone than any other means of communication?

Sales calls are the centre of many sales teams. During the Power Hour, the Sales Trainer will encourage your team to make a higher number of quality sales calls within a set timeframe. This not only leads to more potential leads and conversions but also boosts the confidence and skill set of your salespeople.

Call Centre power hour.

Healthy Competition

Implementing Power Hours can encourage healthy competition among your sales team members.

When team members see their colleagues making impressive progress during these dedicated sessions, it motivates them to step up their game.

Encouraging friendly competition and recognising top performers during a power hour can help to keep momentum.

Real-time Feedback and Coaching

During KONA’s Power Hours, Managers can provide real-time feedback and coaching to their team members.

Managers can:

  • Listen in on calls
  • Review emails
  • Offer guidance on how to improve sales techniques

This immediate feedback loop can lead to rapid skill development and improved performance.

Better Work-Life Balance

A well-structured Power Hour schedule allows your sales team to maintain a healthier work-life balance.

Set clear boundaries for when intense sales activities take place. This way, team members can better allocate their time for personal life, reducing burnout and stress.

Introducing Power Hours to your sales team’s routine comes with significant benefits.

Power hours are known to encourage a competitive spirit and provide opportunities for real-time feedback and coaching.

As your team becomes more skilled and efficient, you’ll likely see a boost in sales performance, ultimately leading to increased revenue and success for your business. Empower your sales team with the transformative power of the Power Hour.

So what are you waiting for? Book in your team’s Power Hour today!

Call KONA on 1300 611 288 or Email us at info@kona.com.au


Why is my Sales Team ‘Busy’ but not Producing results?

It’s easy for salespeople to get caught up in the daily whirlwind of activities and tasks.

They might appear busy, but the critical question for sales managers and leaders is whether their sales team is truly focusing on what is important. As a sales manager, your job is to ensure targets are being hit. When they aren’t, it can be one of your hardest tasks to find out why.  

So, what does it mean to be “busy” in sales, and what are some strategies for ensuring your salespeople prioritise what truly matters?

Garret Norris and John Wright of the KONA Group, Delivering a Sales Training Workshop

The Perils of being Busy

Busyness can be deceptive. Salespeople can spend hours each day on various tasks, e.g.

  • Answering emails
  • Attending meetings
  • Completing administrative work

Yet fail to make significant progress towards their sales goals.

This phenomenon, often referred to as the “activity trap,” can cause a decrease in productivity, frustration, and missed sales opportunities, the list goes on.

Why do salespeople fall into the busyness trap?

Lack of Priorities

Without clear priorities, salespeople will tend to focus on low-impact tasks while neglecting high-impact activities like:

  • Prospecting
  • Following up on leads
  • Closing deals

Overemphasis on Routine Tasks

Mundane and routine tasks can consume a significant portion of a salesperson’s day, leaving them with little time and energy for strategic activities.

Distractions

Constant interruptions, including unnecessary meetings and non-essential emails, can divert salespeople’s attention from what truly matters. Studies have shown that an average of around 84% of people get distracted at work, and the most common distractions include:

  • Emails
  • Phone calls/texts
  • Co-workers
  • The Internet

Ineffective Time Management

Poor time management skills can result in wasted hours and a sense of busyness without accomplishment.

Did you know that 63% of sales reps don't ask for the sale at the end of a sales conversation?

Focusing on What’s Important

To be successful in sales, you need to shift the focus from busyness to activities that drive results. Here are some key areas to concentrate on:

Prospecting: Identifying and reaching out to potential customers is at the core of sales.

Ensure that your sales team allocates sufficient time for prospecting activities, such as:

  • Researching leads
  • Making initial contact

Building Relationships: Building strong relationships with prospects and clients can lead to repeat business and referrals.

Encourage your salespeople to invest time in nurturing these relationships.

Effective Communication: Train your team to communicate effectively, whether it’s through phone calls, emails, or face-to-face meetings.

Clear communication can make all the difference in closing deals.

A quote on effective communication from Garret Norris, CEO of the KONA Group.

Product Knowledge: Statistics have shown that salespeople who have specific product education can sell up to 123% more than those without.

Salespeople should have an in-depth understanding of your products or services. A well-informed salesperson will undoubtably be able to address customer questions and objections more effectively.

Time Management: Teach your team time management skills to help them to:

  • Prioritise tasks
  • Allocate time to high-impact activities

Strategies for Ensuring Focus is on What’s Important

Now that we’ve established the significance of focusing on what’s important in sales, let’s explore strategies to help your salespeople avoid the busyness trap:

Set Clear Goals: Use S.M.A.R.T Goal setting – specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely sales goals.

This helps salespeople understand what they should or shouldn’t prioritise.

Invest in Training and Development: Invest in ongoing training to improve your team’s:

  • Sales skills
  • Product knowledge
  • Time management skills

A well-trained sales team is more likely to focus on what matters.

Use Technology: Implementing sales tools and technology that automates routine tasks, allows your team to spend more time on high-value activities.

Regularly Review Processes: Continuously assess your sales processes to identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement.

Streamlining processes can free up time for essential tasks.

Monitor Progress:

  • Keep track of your team’s performance through regular reporting and meetings
  • Provide feedback and coaching to ensure alignment with strategic goals

Being “busy” in sales doesn’t always equate to being productive or producing results.

Salespeople need guidance and support to prioritise what really matters.

You can help your sales team focus on what’s important and drive success in your organisation. Just remember that it’s not about how busy they appear, but about the value they bring to the table and the impact they make on your bottom line.

Contact KONA to discuss how our tailored Sales Training Programs can have a positive impact on your sales team.

Call 1300 611 288 or Email info@kona.com.au


Does your Sales Team need Sales Coaching?

Sales coaching is when an experienced Sales Trainer provides guidance and support to sales professionals to help them improve their sales performance and reach their full potential.

It’s a personalised and ongoing process aimed at enhancing sales skills, addressing specific challenges, and achieving personal and team goals.

A well-trained and motivated sales team can make all the difference between success and mediocrity.

One effective way to enhance your sales team’s performance is to engage with the best sales trainers for sales coaching. We’ll explore the significance of sales coaching and how to determine if your sales team could benefit from it.

The Importance of Sales Coaching

Sales coaching is a structured process aimed at improving the overall performance of your sales team. It involves providing guidance, feedback, and support to help sales professionals reach their full potential. Here are some key reasons why at KONA, we believe sales coaching is important:

Skill Development

An effective sales trainer will help to coach your team to acquire and refine essential selling skills, such as:

  • Effective communication
  • Objection handling
  • Negotiation
Garret Norris, CEO of the KONA Group delivering a training workshop.
Garret Norris, CEO of the KONA Group delivering a training workshop.

Performance Improvement

Regular coaching sessions can identify areas where your salespeople are struggling and provide targeted solutions to improve their performance.

Motivation and Engagement

Sales coaching boosts team morale and motivation by showing that the business invests in their growth and success.

The sales work is constantly adapting and changing. We also need to adapt to keep up with trends.

Adaptation to Change

The sales world is constantly evolving. Coaching helps salespeople adapt to:

  • New technologies
  • Market trends
  • Changing customer expectations

Consistency

Coaching ensures that all team members adhere to best practices and maintain a consistent approach to selling.

Signs Your Sales Team Needs Coaching

Now that we know the importance of sales coaching, what are some signs that indicate your sales team may benefit from coaching?

Declining Sales Performance

Have your team’s sales numbers been consistently falling? Is your team failing to meet targets? These are a clear indicator that coaching is needed.

High Turnover Rate

Having a high turnover within your sales team could suggest that they are not receiving the support and development opportunities they need to succeed.

Inconsistent Performance

Do some of your team members consistently outperform others?

Coaching can help bridge the performance gap and bring everyone up to a higher standard.

Resistance to Change

Salespeople who resist adopting new strategies, tools, or technology may require coaching to help them embrace change and stay competitive.

Lack of Confidence

If members of your team lack confidence in their abilities, it can significantly impact their sales results.

Coaching can boost their self-assurance.

The expected outcomes of Sales Coaching.

Difficulty Handling Objections

An inability to effectively handle objections from potential customers can hinder the sales process. Coaching will equip your team with better objection-handling skills.

Ineffective Communication

Poor communication skills can result in misunderstandings and missed opportunities. Coaching can enhance your team’s ability to communicate persuasively and empathetically.

Missed Sales Opportunities

If your team frequently loses deals they should have won, it may indicate the need for coaching to improve their closing techniques.

Implementing Sales Coaching

Once you’ve identified that your sales team needs coaching, it’s crucial to implement a structured coaching program

Assessment: Begin by assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each team member to tailor coaching sessions to their specific needs.

Set Clear Objectives: Define clear coaching objectives and goals to track progress effectively.

Provide Training: Invest in coaching training for managers or bring in external coaches with expertise in sales. All of KONA’s sales trainers have run businesses, led teams, built pipelines and managed accounts. We know that without sales, there is no business.

Regular Feedback: Conducting regular coaching sessions and providing constructive feedback will help your team improve continuously.

It's important to measure the results of sales coaching on your sales team.

Measure Results: Track the impact of coaching on sales performance and adjust the coaching program as needed.

Sales coaching is a powerful tool to enhance your sales team’s skills, motivation, and performance.

The first step is recognising the signs that your team may need coaching, the next step is to engage with a Sales Trainer to implement a structured Sales Coaching program.

Empower your salespeople to achieve their full potential and drive your

business to greater success.

Call 1300 611 288 or Email info@kona.com.au


What is the key to a Successful Sales Pitch?

Do you sell B2B or B2C?

Neither!!!

We sell H2H (human 2 human) – Be authentic!

Yes I’ll go on to tell you “How to suck eggs” but let’s not over complicate it!!!

If you are a salesperson, there is a good chance you will need to deliver compelling sales pitches to win over clients.

Leading up to a sales pitch, you may feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness for the “golden opportunity” to showcase your company’s product or service. However, you also know that success hinges on delivering a pitch that will captivate your potential clients.

What sets the best salespeople apart is the value they articulate in their sales pitch.

Successful sales pitch example:

The key to a successful sales pitch lies in effectively communicating the value of your product or service to your potential customer. We will walk you through some of the most essential elements to consider.

Understand Your Audience:

Before crafting your pitch, research and understand your audience’s:

  • Needs
  • Preferences
  • Pain points
  • Demographics

This will help you tailor your pitch to resonate with them.

Understand your audience so you can tailor your sales pitch to resonate with them.

Clear Value Proposition:

Clearly define the value your product or service offers. How does it solve a problem or fulfill a need for the customer? Focus on the benefits they will gain.

Engaging Storytelling:

Frame your pitch as a story that captures the customer’s attention and keeps them engaged.

Stories create emotional connections and make your pitch memorable.

Highlight Value, Not Features:

While features are important, emphasise the benefits the customer will experience.

How will their life be improved?

How will their pain points be addressed?

Address Objections:

Anticipate and address potential objections the customer might have. Be prepared to provide solutions or explanations to overcome these objections.

Use social proof to add credibility to your sales pitch.

Use Social Proof:

Share testimonials, case studies, or success stories from satisfied customers.

Social proof adds credibility and demonstrates that others have benefited from your offering.

Customisation:

Tailor your pitch to the individual customer’s needs and preferences.

Generic pitches are less effective than ones that show you’ve taken the time to understand their unique situation.

Build Rapport:

It’s important to establish a connection with the customer.

Building rapport creates a more comfortable environment and enhances the customer’s trust in you.

Create a Sense of Urgency:

Encourage the customer to take action by creating a sense of urgency.

You can use incentives to motivate people to make a decision. For example:

  • Limited-time offers
  • Exclusive deals
  • Impending benefits can motivate them to make a decision.
Optimise your sales pitch by creating a sense of urgency and including a call to action.

Call to Action:

Clearly state what you want the customer to do next.

Whether it’s making a purchase, scheduling a meeting, or requesting more information, a strong call to action is crucial.

Confidence and Enthusiasm:

Your energy can be infectious and make the customer more receptive to your message.

Confidence and enthusiasm can go a long way when presenting your pitch.

Listen and Adapt:

  • Pay attention to the customer’s responses and body language.
  • Be ready to adapt your pitch based on their reactions and any additional information they provide.

Practice and Rehearsal:

As the old adage goes, “Practice makes perfect.”

Practice your pitch multiple times to ensure you’re comfortable with the content and delivery.

Rehearsing will help you to sound more natural and less scripted.

Follow Up:

To demonstrate your commitment and willingness to assist after the pitch, follow up with the customer to answer any remaining questions and address any concerns.

Remember, a successful sales pitch isn’t just about pushing a product, but about building a relationship, solving a problem, and meeting the customer’s needs.

Flexibility and a customer-centric approach are key to achieving success.

Call 1300 611 288 or Email us at info@kona.com.au to discuss

tailored training options for your business!


Sales Techniques to identify Customer Pain Points and Needs

People buy for Pleasure or Pain, Aspiration or Need.

How do you identify the Needs and Pain Points of your Customers?

A key factor that determines the success of a company is its ability to truly understand the needs and pain points of its customers.

This understanding forms the foundation for creating products and services that address real problems and provide value. In this blog, we will explore sales techniques to identify customer needs and pain points to enhance your business strategies.

There are typically four types of customer pain points being Process, Financial, Support & Product.

Conduct Thorough Market Research

Market research is the starting point for identifying customer needs and pain points. It involves gathering information about your target audience, industry trends, and competitors.

Utilise both qualitative and quantitative research methods, such as:

  • Surveys
  • Focus groups
  • Social media analysis

This will help you to gather insights into your customers’ preferences, challenges, and desires.

Listen to Customer Feedback

Customer feedback is a goldmine of information.

Whether it’s through:

  • Customer support interactions
  • Online reviews
  • Social media comments

Paying attention to what your customers are saying can help uncover their pain points and unmet needs.

It’s important to regularly engage with customers to gather their opinions and experiences and make adjustments based on their feedback.

Create Buyer Personas

Buyer personas are fictional representations of your ideal customers.

By creating detailed personas that encompass demographic information, behaviours, goals, and pain points, you can better understand the motivations and challenges your customers face.

These personas serve as a reference point for tailoring your products and services to meet their specific needs.

Analyse Customer Journeys

Understanding the customer journey is crucial for identifying pain points.

  • Map out the various touchpoints a customer has with your brand, from initial awareness to post-purchase interactions.
  • Identify potential bottlenecks, moments of frustration, and areas where customers might be seeking additional solutions.

Addressing these pain points can lead to improved customer satisfaction.

Identify customer pain points by understanding the customer journey.

Monitor Social Media and Online Communities

Social media platforms and online communities provide valuable insights into customer discussions, complaints, and recommendations. Regularly monitor these spaces to identify emerging trends, common challenges, and areas where your target audience seeks solutions. Engaging in these conversations can also demonstrate your commitment to addressing customer needs.

Offer Exceptional Customer Support

Your customer support team is at the forefront of interacting with customers.

You can train them not only to resolve issues but also to listen to customer concerns.

By analysing the patterns of customer inquiries, you can identify recurring pain points and take steps to alleviate them.

Conduct Surveys and Questionnaires

Surveys and questionnaires provide a structured way to collect targeted feedback from your customers.

Craft questions that delve into their experiences, preferences, and challenges.

This data can help you identify trends, prioritise pain points, and make informed decisions about product development and improvements.

Monitor data analytics and usage patterns to uncover valuable insights into customer behaviour.

Monitor Analytics and Usage Patterns

Data analytics can reveal valuable insights into customer behaviour.

  • Monitor how customers interact with your website, mobile app, or products.
  • Identify drop-off points, frequently used features, and areas where customers spend the most time.

These patterns can provide insights into both needs and pain points.

Identifying customer needs and pain points is an ongoing process that requires continuous effort and adaptation.

By combining thorough research, active listening, and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences, you can develop products and services that truly resonate with your target audience.

Remember, a customer-centric approach not only enhances your business’s bottom line but also fosters lasting customer loyalty.

The KONA Group specialise in Corporate Sales and Management Training Programs and Tailored Business Growth Strategies.

If you would like to find out what we can do for your business, call us on 1300 611 288 or

Email info@kona.com.au


What are the Key Elements of a Successful Negotiation?

I’m asked all the time about ego and negotiation and in a response to a delegate yesterday I said: “It seems you’re suggesting that having a strong ego or displaying an overly dominant attitude might not be effective in negotiation situations. In many cases, you’re right. Negotiation is a complex interpersonal process that often requires collaboration, active listening, and empathy.”Garret Norris, CEO of the KONA Group

The Key Elements of Effective Negotiation

A successful negotiation involves several key elements that contribute to achieving a mutually satisfactory agreement between parties. Whether you’re negotiating a business deal, a contract, a salary, or any other arrangement, let us guide you through the elements that can greatly enhance your chances of success.

Preparation

Thoroughly research and understand your own needs, goals, and priorities, as well as those of the other party.

Anticipate potential objections, concessions, and alternative solutions.

Knowledge is a powerful tool in negotiation.

Clear Objectives

Clearly define your objectives and desired outcomes for the negotiation.

Having a well-defined goal helps you stay focused and avoid unnecessary concessions.

In Negotiation it is important to have well-defined goals in order to keep you focused.

Active Listening

An effective yet simple tactic when negotiating is to pay close attention to what the other party is saying.

Listen actively to their concerns, needs, and interests.

This helps build rapport and understanding, enabling you to find common ground.

Effective communication will allow you to clearly convey your own points while acknowledging the other party's perspective.

Effective Communication

Clearly and persuasively convey your own points while acknowledging the other party’s perspective. Use concise and respectful language, and be open to asking clarifying questions.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Be prepared to adjust your approach and consider alternative solutions.

A willingness to compromise and find creative options can help break impasses.

Patience and Timing

Negotiations can take time. It’s important to stay patient and avoid rushing the process. Allow both parties to express themselves fully before moving forward.

Emotional Intelligence

Manage your emotions and be aware of the emotions of the other party.

Emotions can impact decision-making, so maintaining a calm and empathetic demeanor is crucial.

Building Relationships

Establish a positive rapport with the other party. A good working relationship can lead to more productive negotiations and future collaborations.

Trust and Credibility

Demonstrate honesty and integrity throughout the negotiation. Building trust enhances cooperation and reduces the likelihood of disputes later on.

The goal in negotiation is to find common ground where both parties feel they have gained something.

Win-Win Mindset

Remember to aim for a solution that benefits both parties. The goal is to find common ground where both sides feel they’ve gained value.

Concessions

Be strategic in making concessions. Don’t give away too much too soon, and ensure that any concessions are reciprocated.

The Importance of BATNA

BATNA in Negotiation means Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement.

BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement):

Understand your BATNA and the other party’s BATNA. This is your fallback plan if the negotiation doesn’t result in an agreement. Knowing your BATNA gives you leverage.

Non-Verbal Communication

Pay attention to body language, tone of voice, and other non-verbal cues. These can provide insights into the other party’s thoughts and feelings.

Documentation is important in negotiation so that each party clearly understands their commitments.

Documentation

Clearly outline the terms of the agreement in writing to avoid misunderstandings later on. Both parties should have a clear understanding of their commitments.

Professionalism

Maintain a professional attitude and demeanor throughout the negotiation process. Respectful behaviour fosters a more productive atmosphere.

Timing and Deadlines

Use timing strategically. Introduce deadlines to encourage decisions and avoid unnecessary delays.

Mediation or Third Party

If negotiations reach a “deadlock”, consider involving a neutral third party or mediator to facilitate discussions and find common ground.

Remember, negotiation is a dynamic and complex process. The successful application of these elements can vary depending on the specific situation and the parties involved. Flexibility and adaptability are key in tailoring your approach to each negotiation.

Contact KONA for tailored Negotiation Training, or see what else we have to offer!

Sales TrainingSome call it an ‘unfair advantage’. To us, it’s simply learning to love sales and your customers again.

Call Centre Trainingfocuses on the delivery of customer service excellence first and foremost.

Sales Pipeline helps sales leaders to develop a customised funnel process for their organisation.

Power Hour delivers immediate ROI by teaching your sales team the disciplines and skills to turn calls into sales and hot prospects.

Customer Service Trainingthe key to every organisation’s commercial success, and the glue that holds it all together.

And so much more.


Has Your Business Considered These Eye-Opening Sales Statistics?

When it comes to statistics, we rely on them to help forge our strategy or to choose a supplier.

Statistics play a crucial role in business strategy for several reasons.

Data-driven decision making

Statistics provide a systematic and objective approach to analysing data. By using statistical methods, businesses can make decisions based on evidence and facts rather than intuition or gut feelings. This reduces the risk of making decisions on suppliers based on biases or incomplete information.

KONA have in FY 22/23:

  • Delivered sales training to over 1,920 salespeople.
  • Delivered customer service training to over 480 CSO’s.
  • Profiled over 768 people using DISC, HBDI and MBTI
  • Delivered leadership training to over 228 leaders.

Understanding sales trends and statistics is essential for making informed decisions and crafting effective sales strategies.

Here we will delve into ten intriguing sales statistics that will help businesses gain valuable insights and adapt to the dynamic market landscape.

1. Customer Experience Matters

Over 70% of customers are willing to pay more for products or services from companies that provide exceptional customer service. (Source: HubSpot)

This highlights the importance of focusing on customer satisfaction and building strong relationships with clients.

2. Speed Matters

Did you know that 50% of sales go to the vendor that responds first? (Source: InsideSales)

In today’s fast-paced world, quick response times can make a significant difference in securing a sale.

3. Social Selling Impact

A compelling 78% of salespeople who utilise social selling techniques outperform their peers who don’t use social media. (Source: Forbes)

Social selling is no longer an option but a necessity for modern sales professionals.

4. Lead Nurturing Pays Off

Companies that excel at lead nurturing generate 50% more sales-ready leads at a 33% lower cost. (Source: Forrester Research)

Investing in lead nurturing can lead to increased conversion rates and more cost-effective sales processes.

5. Mobile Sales on the Rise

Mobile sales make up 34.5% of all e-commerce sales globally. (Source: Statista)

With the increasing popularity of mobile devices, businesses must optimise their sales channels for mobile users to tap into this growing market.

6. Video Content Sells

Including video in your sales emails can boost click-through rates by a staggering 300%. (Source: HubSpot)

The power of visual content should not be underestimated in engaging potential customers.

7. Trust and Referrals

A massive 92% of customers trust referrals from people they know. (Source: Nielsen)

Word-of-mouth marketing and referrals remain incredibly influential in driving sales.

8. Personalisation is Key

A study found that 80% of customers are more likely to make a purchase from a brand that offers personalised experiences. (Source: Epsilon)

Tailoring sales efforts to individual preferences can significantly impact conversion rates.

9. Abandoned Carts Can Be Recovered

Approximately 69% of online shopping carts are abandoned, but effective retargeting strategies can recover 5-10% of these sales. (Source: Baymard Institute)

Don’t ignore potential revenue from abandoned carts; implement retargeting techniques to bring customers back.

10. Upselling and Cross-Selling Work

Upselling and cross-selling can lead to significant revenue growth.

Upselling has a 20-30% success rate, while cross-selling sits at 10-30%. (Source: Source: Marketing Metrics)

Encourage sales representatives to explore upselling and cross-selling opportunities with existing customers.

In the ever-evolving world of sales, staying informed about key statistics is vital for businesses aiming to succeed.

By understanding the impact of customer experience, the importance of quick responses, the power of social selling, and the potential of mobile sales, companies can shape their strategies for maximum effectiveness.

Focusing on personalised experiences, abandoned cart recovery, and upselling/cross-selling can significantly boost revenue and customer satisfaction.

So, take these ten compelling sales statistics into account and pave the way for a successful sales future.

Contact KONA to discuss how we can help you boost sales in your business!

Call 1300 611 288 or email info@kona.com.au


5 Ways Sales Coaching Can Improve Your Sales Team

As part of our role, we assist companies coaching salespeople out in the field.

Last week was spent with a long-standing client in Brisbane accompanying Salespeople/Key Account Managers, visiting customers and prospects.

After each call we would talk about how they could have performed better and what they would do differently on the next call.

Results from Sales Coaching

Without exception, each salesperson increased their skills and became more confident after each call, some even made significant sales with prospects who previously told them that they will not buy… So, how?…

Trying New Sales Techniques from KONA Training

They tried new techniques that we ran in the sales training, and they loved but never actually put into practice when they went back out in the “coalface”.

So, how much time should you spend coaching your team each week? There isn’t a right or wrong answer, but if you are managing a business-to-business sales team, we recommend that you spend 40 – 65% of your time Sales Coaching your team.

When we look at training and how we “keep it alive” after the initial workshop, coaching plays a massive and important role.

Sales coaching is a powerful tool for developing and enhancing the skills of your sales team.

By providing targeted guidance and support, sales coaching can significantly improve your team’s performance and drive better sales results.

Five Ways Sales Coaching Can Benefit Your Sales Team

1. Sales Skills Development

Sales coaching focuses on identifying the strengths and areas for improvement of individual sales team members.

By providing personalised coaching sessions, you can help your team members develop essential sales skills, such as effective communication, negotiation, objection handling, and closing techniques.

Regular coaching sessions allow for continuous skill development and improvement, enabling your sales team to become more confident and successful in their roles.

2. Goal Setting and Accountability

Sales coaching plays a vital role in setting clear and achievable goals for your sales team.

By working closely with each team member, you can help them define S.M.A.R.T goals:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Attainable
  • Relevant
  • Time-bound

Regular coaching sessions provide a platform for reviewing progress, discussing challenges, and holding team members accountable for their goals.

This process keeps your team focused, motivated, and aligned with the overall sales objectives.

Garret Norris CEO/Co-Founder of KONA

3. Enhancing Sales Strategies

Sales coaching helps your team members refine their sales strategies and approaches.

Through one-on-one coaching sessions, you can:

  • Analyse past sales interactions
  • Evaluate sales techniques
  • Provide feedback on how to improve

By identifying areas where adjustments are needed, such as refining the sales pitch, overcoming objections, or adapting to different customer personas, you can guide your sales team toward more effective and successful strategies.

4. Building Confidence and Motivation

Sales can be a challenging and competitive field, and it’s essential to maintain your team’s confidence and motivation.

Sales coaching provides an opportunity to recognize and reinforce individual achievements, celebrate successes, and boost team morale.

By offering guidance, support, and constructive feedback, you can instil confidence in your team members, helping them overcome obstacles and stay motivated in their pursuit of sales excellence.

5. Continuous Learning and Adaptation

The sales landscape is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial for your team to adapt to changing market dynamics and customer preferences.

Sales coaching encourages continuous learning by staying updated on industry trends, new sales techniques, and emerging technologies.

Through coaching, you can provide resources, training materials, and industry insights to equip your team with the knowledge and skills needed to stay ahead of the competition.

Sales Coaching empowers your sales team by:

  • Developing their skills
  • Setting goals
  • Refining strategies
  • Boosting confidence
  • Promoting continuous learning

By investing in sales coaching, you create a culture of growth and improvement, resulting in a more effective and successful sales team.

Contact KONA today to discuss how Customised Training & Sales Coaching

can benefit your sales team.


5 Signs Of A Bad Sales Deal & How To Avoid Them

We were called into an organisation recently because, while they seemed to be making sales, many of them were “bad” for a number of reasons.

While my team member was on a flight home we were talking via “WhatsApp” about the solution, and how they can avoid this in the future.

Here is what we are advising to identify them, and “AVOID A BAD SALE”:

Unbalanced Value Proposition:

One of the first signs of a bad sales deal is an unbalanced value proposition.

If the deal heavily favours the customer while neglecting your company’s needs and profitability, proceed with caution.

Evaluate the terms and conditions, pricing, and potential return on investment (ROI) to ensure that the deal is mutually beneficial.

Negotiate to create a win-win situation or consider walking away if the balance cannot be restored.

Lack of Alignment with Your Ideal Customer Profile:

A bad sales deal often arises when there is a mismatch between the prospect and your ideal customer profile.

The deal may result in wasted time and resources if it doesn’t:

  • Align with your target market
  • Meet the customer’s needs
  • Meet their ability to pay

Before engaging in a sales deal, conduct thorough research and qualify prospects based on their fit with your ideal customer profile.

Focus your efforts on prospects who have a genuine need for your product or service and are capable of becoming long-term, profitable customers.

Overly Demanding or Unreasonable Requests:

When negotiating a sales deal, pay close attention to any requests or demands that seem excessive or unreasonable.

If the prospect expects unreasonable discounts, extended payment terms, or unrealistic deliverables, it could indicate a problematic partnership.

Consider whether meeting these demands would strain your:

  • Resources
  • Profitability
  • Compromise the quality of your product or service

If the requests seem out of line, be willing to push back or walk away if necessary to protect your business interests.

Lack of Trust or Transparency:

Trust is the foundation of any successful business relationship.

If you notice a lack of transparency or dishonesty from the prospect during the sales process, it’s a clear sign of a bad deal.

Watch for red flags such as evasive answers, inconsistent information, or a refusal to provide essential documents.

Trust your instincts and conduct thorough due diligence to verify the prospect’s credibility and reputation.

It’s better to turn down a deal with a dubious prospect than risk getting entangled in a harmful partnership.

Unfavourable Contract Terms and Conditions:

Reviewing the contract is vital to uncover potential pitfalls.

If the contract terms and conditions are heavily one-sided, leaving your company exposed to significant risks, it’s a warning sign.

Look out for clauses that limit your control over the product or service, impose excessive penalties or termination fees, or grant the prospect unfair advantages.

Ensure the contract is fair and protects your interests.

Negotiate for more balanced terms or walk away if the other party is unwilling to make reasonable adjustments.

In the fast-paced world of sales, it’s crucial to exercise caution and discernment when evaluating potential deals.

Recognising the signs of a bad sales deal early on can save you valuable time, resources, and potential damage to your company’s reputation.

By being attentive to the terms of a sales deal, you can navigate the sales landscape more effectively.

Remember, it’s better to pass on a bad deal and focus on finding the right opportunities that align with your business goals and values.

Contact KONA today to discuss tailored Sales Training for your Sales Team!

8 Qualities A Great Sales Coach Should Possess

I was recently training and coaching the leadership team of a large “sales focused” global organisation when I was asked this question:

“Garret, in your opinion, what qualities should a great sales coach possess?”

Here is my answer:

Experience

A good sales coach typically has extensive experience in the field of sales.

They have likely faced various challenges and learned valuable lessons from their own experiences, which they can share with their clients.

Expertise

A great sales coach has in-depth knowledge of sales strategies, techniques, and best practices.

They understand the sales process and can effectively convey that knowledge to their clients.

Communication Skills

Effective communication is crucial in sales, and a great sales coach should excel in this area.

They can articulate concepts clearly, actively listen to their clients’ concerns, and provide constructive feedback.

Motivational Abilities

Sales can be a demanding and competitive field, so a great sales coach knows how to motivate and inspire their clients.

They can help salespeople overcome obstacles, build confidence, and maintain a positive mindset.

Analytical Skills

Sales coaches often assess their clients’ performance, identify areas for improvement, and develop customised strategies.

Strong analytical skills enable them to analyse sales data, identify trends, and provide data-driven insights.

Adaptability

Sales strategies and market dynamics can change rapidly.

A great sales coach stays updated on industry trends, adapts their approach accordingly, and helps their clients navigate evolving challenges.

Empathy And Emotional Intelligence

Understanding clients’ unique needs, motivations, and challenges is crucial for a sales coach.

They should demonstrate empathy, provide support, and tailor their coaching style to individual personalities and situations.

Continuous Learning

Sales is a dynamic field, and a great sales coach recognises the importance of continuous learning.

They stay informed about new sales techniques, technologies, and industry developments to provide the most relevant and up-to-date guidance.

While these are some general qualities of a great sales coach, it’s essential to research and gather specific feedback and testimonials.

Contact KONA about sales coaching today!