In this episode, we delve into how educators can actively prepare students for real-world sales challenges, moving beyond rote memorization and final exams. Rich Kuzmeski shares invaluable insights into experiential learning strategies that facilitate student success, enhancing both confidence and competency in the field of sales.

Creating Engaging Role Plays for Practical Learning

● Role plays designed to mirror real-life scenarios empower students to create their own scripts, fostering ownership and individual learning.

● Students research various industries thoroughly, refining their understanding and relevant questioning techniques necessary for success in sales.

● Structured role plays focus on the discovery call process, allowing students to practice asking impactful questions rather than simply pitching a product.

The Importance of Listening and Discovery in Sales

● Students often struggle with the fear of silence during sales calls, making it crucial to build their comfort with open-ended questioning and attentive listening.

● Emphasizing a 70/30 listening-to-talking ratio teaches students that effective selling is rooted in understanding customer needs rather than just presenting.

● By structuring prompts to encourage follow-up questions, students learn to drive conversations deeper, uncovering critical insights necessary for making meaningful connections.

Extending Learning Beyond the Classroom

● Participation in internal and external sales competitions provides students with hands-on experiences that translate classroom knowledge into actionable skills in real-world situations.

● Establishing connections with industry representatives and creating opportunities for networking prepares students for internships and jobs after graduation.

● Achievements in competitions bolster student resumes while enhancing the overall credibility of the sales program, attracting more prospective students and professionals to engage.

Homework Challenge or Action Steps

● Challenge students to design their own sales role play based on a chosen industry, incorporating both questions and anticipated answers to practice smooth dialogue.

● Encourage educators to implement experiential learning techniques, such as guest speakers and live events, to enrich the educational experience beyond textbooks.

"Be honest. It's way easier to remember the truth than it is to remember what you may or may not have made up." ● Rich Kuzmeki.

Resources

● Oklahoma State University Sales Center(https://business.okstate.edu/sales)

● Sales Competitions Overview(https://business.okstate.edu/sales/competitions)

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Credits

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