As a sales recruitment agency, we know that meeting your sales targets is one of your prime objectives in sales. But when things don’t go according to plan we can be quick to blame the current state of the economy or external factors for recent performance woes. But the truth is there are still many sales professionals who are regularly hitting their sales targets. 

You can still hit your sales targets, even during a recession or slower economic times. You may just need to revisit your sales process and approach. You could be overlooking something or failing to make the necessary adjustments to reflect your customers renewed.

8 Reasons You Are Not Hitting Sales Targets

Are you having trouble meeting your sales targets? Here are some common reasons why sales professionals are missing the mark. 

Lack of leads: A lack of leads can make it difficult for sales professionals to hit their targets. This can be due to poor lead generation strategies or a lack of investment in lead generation. Or more likely right now, poor economic conditions, make it more challenging to find opportunities. 

1. Poor qualification of leads: Even if leads are being generated, they may not be qualified properly. This can lead to sales professionals spending time on leads that are not likely to convert. Don’t skip the qualification process. 
2. Lack of sales skills: Sales professionals may not have the necessary skills to effectively sell the product or service. Are there certain skills you need to improve? Investing in yourself and professional development will help you improve your sales abilities. 
3. Lack of product or market knowledge: Sales professionals may not have a good understanding of the product or service they are selling or the market they are selling to. This can make it difficult to effectively communicate the value of the product or service. This is a particular issue with sales reps who are new to a job. 
4. Poor sales processes: A lack of effective sales processes can make it difficult for sales professionals to close deals. This can include poor follow-up processes, lack of clear next steps, or poor use of technology and tools. Speak with your sales manager if you have suggestions for how you can improve the sales process. 
5. Poor team dynamics: Poor team dynamics can lead to a lack of collaboration and support, making it difficult for sales professionals to hit their targets.
6. Lack of motivation: Sales professionals may not be motivated to hit their targets due to a lack of recognition, poor management, or lack of incentives. As an employer, it’s important to create an engaging environment that motivates reps to sell. 
7. Unforeseen market changes: Economic downturn, changes in customer behaviour, new competitors entering the market, and changes in regulations and laws, can also affect sales negatively. All of these changes will happen from time to time. The key is to be prepared for change and have a plan to address it. 

More Selling Advice From Our Sales Recruiters

5 Rookie Mistakes You’re Probably Making In Your Sales Hiring Process

Not Getting a Promotion at Your Sales Job? 4 Reasons Why

Selling During a Recession: 5 Things You Need to Know

SalesForce Search is a sales recruitment agency that specializes in hiring sales rockstars. Hiring top salespeople is tough. Only 55% meet their quota. Our proactive approach recruits talented salespeople before they hit the market. As North America’s leading sales headhunter we recruit salespeople in every sector of the economy including, software, manufacturing, financial services and medical devices. To find your next sales rockstar, start your search here.