If you want to be the best, you need to do what the top performers in the sales industry do to differentiate themselves from others. 

In working with thousands of sales professionals, our sales recruiters can tell you that most sales talent come from a similar background. They have similar educational backgrounds and many works for the same type of organizations as they work their way up the ranks. They even share some of the same skills and knowledge areas. 

But what really sets the best salespeople apart from the rest is their ability to master a select number of sales skills. Again, it’s not about having the basic skill or experience in a particular area. It’s about mastering the following skills and understanding them at a much deeper level:

1. Active and engaged listening

Sales professionals need to be able to effectively communicate with prospects, whether in person, over the phone, or through email. This includes the ability to articulate product or service features and benefits. But even more important is the ability to listen actively and respond to customer needs.

Listening is perhaps one of the most underrated skills. It’s applicable in all professions and being an active and engaged listener can be a game changer. 

Many sales reps are busy talking and trying to persuade and convince that they overlook the value of taking a step back and letting the prospect or client talk. When you give your clients the chance to answer the questions you ask, they’ll give you the exact information you need to create a viable sales solution. 

2. Emotional intelligence and relationship building

Sales professionals should possess high levels of emotional intelligence. This means the ability to understand, read, and respond to the emotions of others, as well as their own emotions. When you master these abilities, you’ll be able to connect with your clients on a deeper and more meaningful level. When this happens, you will build trust and rapport. 

3. Creating, communicating, and painting a vivid picture of potential solutions 

Sales professionals need to be adaptable, able to think on their feet and adjust to changing customer needs and market conditions. They also need to be able to troubleshoot and solve problems that arise during the sales process to keep the sale moving forward. But even more important is the ability to explain potential scenarios and outcomes. When you can master the art of communicating sales solutions through storytelling, you’ll be able to win over your customers more easily. 

More Insights From Sales Recruitment Agencies

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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.