Movies like I, Robot and Next Gen portray Artificial Intelligence (AI) as power-hungry robots. However, the latter portrayal couldn't be farther from the truth. In fact, AI is posed to not take over businesses, but to provide support to sales departments of all sizes, shapes, and industries. Not only will AI support sales departments, but it will offer the tools needed to transform them into innovative spaces.
Every time a sales associate picks up the phone, sends an email, or heads to an in person meeting the goal is simple ... improve the client relationship to get one step closer to a sale. This might be a simple goal, but far too often achieving it becomes a convoluted process filled with trials and errors. While experimentation can be helpful in the sales process, it is far more effective on a company level to leverage proven methodologies that stem from a cohesive approach. A well-written sales playbook not only streamlines the entire sales process, but it enables your team to more successfully handle a variety of sales situations, while simultaneously communicating a value proposition to each potential client.
Gone are the days when Artificial Intelligence (AI) brought to mind scenes from Hollywood blockbuster classics Minority Report and I, Robot. Instead, AI technologies are rapidly changing the way that marketers and sales teams reach prospects, nurture leads, and inevitably close deals. Contrary to conspiracy beliefs, AI isn't meant to replace various sales positions with machines. Instead, when used properly, AI technologies can and will help sales teams achieve their desired results via the five following benefits.
I have had a number of our tech prospects and clients talk to me about increasing their current sales. When I ask about what they have done so far in their attempt to grow the business, whether a technology services company or a SaaS company, I often hear they have hired new sales reps. Everyone knows the easiest way to increase sales is to add to your sales team! Right?
Immediacy in sales is everything.
Yet, in my experience, many marketing funnels and the sales teams they support take their sweet time following up on their best opportunities.
This is a perilous decision to make as a business: according to InsideSales, “50% of buyers choose the vendor that responds first.” — so by failing to provide an immediate next step you are likely to leave serious money on the table for your competitors.
