When it's time to improve sales management with an upgrade or a new role, fractional sales management may be the answer - Episode 63 of the Industrial Growth Institute Podcast with  Walter Crosby of Helix Sales Development

Summary

Walter Crosby joins Ed in the studio this week to delve into the critical role of sales management in driving revenue growth for industrial manufacturers.

They discuss the concept of fractional sales management, the challenges of implementing effective sales training, and the importance of understanding buyer behavior. Walter emphasizes the need for salespeople to possess business acumen to navigate complex sales environments and highlights the significance of creating urgency in the sales process.

They also discuss:

• the evolving landscape of sales in the digital age


• the intricacies of sales management, accountability, and methodologies


• the importance of congruency in messaging between marketing and sales


• the need for accountability in performance


• how to motivate sales teams by understanding their personal goals.

Walter shares insights from his podcast, 'Sales and Cigars', and emphasizes the significance of mentorship and training in sales. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in sales training and the benefits of fractional sales management, highlighting the need for effective systems and processes in sales organizations.

Takeaways

• Sales management is foundational for consistent growth.


• Fractional sales management requires quick impact.


• Transformation in sales culture can be uncomfortable.


• Salespeople must understand ROI to communicate effectively.


• The status quo is the biggest competitor in sales.


• Hope is not a strategy; sales require actionable insights.


• Sales managers often lack respect within organizations.


• Buyers prioritize their needs over the seller's offerings.


• Sales training should include both producers and managers.


• Investing in sales playbooks is essential for success.


• Congruency in messaging is essential for sales and marketing alignment.


• Accountability is key; companies get the behavior they tolerate.


• Understanding generational differences can enhance sales team dynamics.


• Motivating sales reps requires knowing their personal goals.


• Podcasting can be a fun and valuable platform for sharing insights.


• Books like 'Meditations' and 'The E-Myth' are great resources for professionals.


• Not all sales reps can be trained; focus on those willing to learn.


• Navigating business challenges is part of growth and learning.


• Fractional sales management can provide immediate support and structure.


• AI tools can assist in sales but should not replace human interaction.

Takeaway Quotes from Walter Crosby

• "Sales management is a fulcrum for revenue."


• "Transformation is uncomfortable for teams."


• "Companies get the behavior that they tolerate."


• "AI is a toolbox, not a solution."

Check out Walter's Helix Sales Development website.

LinkedIn: Walter Crosby and Ed Marsh

Twitter: Walter Crosby and Ed Marsh

Instagram: Walter Crosby and Ed Marsh

YouTube: @WalterCrosby and @EdMarsh

Show Transcript 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sales Management and Growth

08:03 The Role of Fractional Sales Management

16:36 Sales Training and Management Challenges

22:34 Understanding Buyer Behavior

29:09 The Importance of Business Acumen in Sales

34:11 Managing Stress and Personal Insights

36:24 Rapid Fire Insights on Sales Management

38:50 The Importance of Congruency in Messaging

40:01 Accountability and Performance in Sales

42:28 Understanding Generational Differences in Sales

44:25 Motivating Sales Teams through Personal Goals

46:28 The Birth of a Podcast: Sales and Cigars

50:04 Books that Inspire: Recommendations from Walter

52:34 The Role of Sales Training and Mentorship

54:02 Identifying Trainable Sales Reps

58:34 The Fractional Sales Management Model

01:01:44 Engagements and Span of Control in Sales Management

01:04:44 Balancing Micromanagement and Autonomy

01:08:45 Integrating Sales Systems with EOS

01:12:32 The Role of AI in Sales Training

01:16:11 The Case for Fractional Sales Management

 
Have you made mistakes hiring a sales manager? Check out these resources.
 

Article - Hiring a Sales Manager

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