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Sales Training Resources: A Comprehensive Guide for Sales Managers

Posted byby Sean Murkar  |  Published on: | Last updated: Jul 19, 2024

When it comes to outperforming the competition, practical sales training resources are not just a luxury; they’re a necessity. Sales managers constantly seek ways to enhance their teams’ skills, close more deals, and boost their bottom line. To achieve these goals, it’s crucial to have access to high-quality sales training resources. 

Our guide will explore the importance of sales training resources, how to choose the right program, various types of training available, and a curated list of top resources to consider.

Why Is Sales Training Important?

Sales training is the cornerstone of a successful sales team. It equips sales professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in a highly competitive environment. Here are several reasons why investing in sales training is critical:

  1. Improved Performance: Well-trained sales teams can close deals more efficiently, increasing revenue.
  2. Consistency: Training ensures that all team members are on the same page, adhering to best practices and company protocols.
  3. Adaptability: The sales landscape is constantly changing. Training helps teams stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques.
  4. Employee Retention: Offering development opportunities can enhance job satisfaction and reduce turnover rates.
  5. Sales Certifications: Certifications validate skills and knowledge, boosting credibility and confidence.
  6. Skill Gaps: Identifying and addressing skill gaps ensures all team members can perform effectively.
  7. Soft Skills: Developing soft skills, such as communication and emotional intelligence, is critical for building relationships and closing deals.

Sales Training Resources List

To help you navigate the plethora of sales training options available, we’ve compiled a list of top resources, each offering unique benefits:

1. Sandler Training

Sandler provides a comprehensive range of training programs focused on both skills development and behavioral change. Their renowned Sandler Sales System helps teams learn how to sell more efficiently and effectively.

  • Format: Online and in-person
  • Target Audience: Sales professionals at all levels
  • Website: Sandler Training

2. RAIN Group

RAIN Group offers an extensive library of training modules designed to improve sales performance. Their programs focus on consultative selling, negotiation skills, and sales management.

  • Format: Online courses, workshops, and consulting
  • Target Audience: B2B sales teams and leaders
  • Website: RAIN Group

3. HubSpot Academy

HubSpot Academy provides a wide range of free and paid sales training courses. Their courses cover topics such as inbound sales, sales enablement, and CRM usage, making them ideal for tech-savvy teams.

  • Format: Online courses
  • Target Audience: Sales reps and managers
  • Website: HubSpot Academy

4. Richardson Sales Performance

Richardson specializes in customized sales training solutions tailored to your organization’s specific needs. They offer a variety of programs, from foundational skills to advanced selling techniques.

5. Coursera

Coursera partners with top universities to offer sales training courses that cover everything from sales fundamentals to advanced strategies. It’s an excellent resource for continuous learning and development.

6. LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning provides access to a vast library of sales training videos and courses. Topics range from cold calling and lead generation to sales management and negotiation tactics.

  • Format: Online courses
  • Target Audience: Sales reps, managers, and executives
  • Website: LinkedIn Learning

7. Miller Heiman Group

Miller Heiman Group offers a robust suite of sales training solutions that focus on strategic selling and complex sales processes. Their programs are designed to drive measurable results and enhance sales effectiveness.

8. Salesforce Sales Training

Salesforce offers training programs that are specifically designed to help sales teams maximize the use of their CRM platform. Their courses cover everything from basic CRM usage to advanced sales strategies.

9. Janek Performance Group

Janek Performance Group provides comprehensive sales training and consulting services. Their programs focus on developing critical selling behaviors and driving sales effectiveness.

10. Harris Consulting Group

Harris Consulting Group offers customized sales training and consulting services. They specialize in helping organizations build high-performing sales teams through proven techniques and actionable advice.

11. Sales Readiness Group

Sales Readiness Group provides sales training programs designed to help teams achieve their sales quotas and improve overall performance. Their courses cover a wide range of topics, from sales fundamentals to advanced strategies.

  • Format: Online and in-person
  • Target Audience: Sales professionals and managers
  • Website: Sales Readiness Group

12. ValueSelling Associates

ValueSelling Associates offers sales training programs that focus on value-based selling techniques. Their courses help salespeople build trust with clients and close deals more effectively.

Enhance your skills further by joining these must-attend sales conferences in 2024!

How to Choose the Right Sales Training Program

Selecting the right sales training program can be a daunting task. Here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Relevance: Ensure the training content aligns with your industry and addresses your team’s specific challenges.
  2. Flexibility: Look for programs that offer flexible learning formats, such as online courses, workshops, and seminars.
  3. Reputation: Research the program’s track record and seek reviews from past participants.
  4. Cost vs. Value: Consider the program’s cost relative to the potential return on investment. High-quality training is an investment in your team’s future success.
  5. Customization: Choose a program that can be tailored to your team’s unique needs and goals.
  6. Instructor-Led Training: Opt for live instruction programs for more personalized guidance.
  7. Sales Readiness Group: Evaluate how well a training program prepares your team for future sales challenges.
  8. Social Selling: Look for courses integrating social media strategies to enhance sales outreach and engagement.

Discover the best sales forecasting methods in our guide, “An In-Depth Guide to Sales Forecasting Methods.”

Types of Sales Training

Sales training programs come in various formats, each catering to different learning preferences and objectives:

  1. Online Courses: Convenient and often self-paced, online courses are ideal for busy sales professionals.
  2. Workshops and Seminars: Interactive and engaging, these provide hands-on learning experiences.
  3. In-House Training: Tailored specifically to your organization, in-house training ensures a focused approach.
  4. One-on-One Coaching: Personalized coaching can address individual weaknesses and build on strengths.
  5. Boot Camps: Intensive training sessions designed to enhance skills and knowledge rapidly.
  6. Onsite Training: In-person training at your location offers convenience and a tailored experience.
  7. Learning Management System (LMS): Cloud-based dashboards that track progress and provide interactive tools for learning.
  8. Sales Judo: Techniques that help salespeople navigate and overcome objections smoothly.

Essential Sales Skills

To become a great salesperson, mastering a variety of skills is essential:

  1. Selling Skills: Fundamental skills such as prospecting, presenting, and closing deals.
  2. Communication Skills: Effective verbal and non-verbal communication is key to building trust and understanding customer needs.
  3. Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing emotions to handle customer interactions effectively.
  4. Negotiation Skills: Being a great negotiator is crucial for handling price objections and closing deals.
  5. Product Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of your products and services helps in making informed recommendations.
  6. Customer Engagement: Creating meaningful interactions that enhance the customer experience and build loyalty.
  7. Prospecting Skills: The ability to identify and qualify potential customers is critical for maintaining a healthy sales pipeline.
  8. Building Relationships: Establishing and nurturing relationships with clients to drive repeat business.

Expert Guidance and Insights

In addition to formal training programs, sales managers can benefit from a wealth of expert guidance and insights available through various channels:

  1. Sales Blogs: Keep up with the latest trends and best practices by following top sales blogs like Sales Hacker, Selling Power, and The Peak Blog.
  2. Sales Enablement Podcast: Listen to podcasts like the Sales Enablement Podcast for valuable insights and advice from industry experts.
  3. Sales Insights Lab: Get fresh insights on sales strategies and tactics from the Sales Insights Lab.
  4. Sales Evangelist: Follow the Sales Evangelist for actionable tips and strategies to improve sales performance.
  5. YouTube Channels: Explore educational content from popular sales YouTube channels like Sales Gravy hosted by Jeb Blount.

Personal Development and Continued Learning

To stay ahead in the sales game, continuous learning and personal development are key:

  1. Action Selling: Engage in ongoing development with programs like Action Selling that focus on critical selling behaviors.
  2. Elite Performance: Strive for elite performance by adopting best practices from major brands and industry leaders.
  3. Sales Accelerator: Leverage tools like Sales Accelerator to boost your team’s performance and close deals faster.
  4. Keynote Speaker: Gain insights from industry experts and keynote speakers at events like those hosted by Corporate Visions.
  5. Monthly Newsletter: Subscribe to a monthly newsletter from trusted sources for the latest updates and trends in sales.

The Bottom Line

Investing in high-quality sales training is essential for driving team performance and achieving sales success. By carefully selecting the right training resources and programs, sales managers can ensure their teams are well-equipped to meet the challenges of today’s marketplace. 

Explore the options listed above to find the best fit for your team’s needs and start transforming your sales outcomes today.

For a deeper dive into the world of sales training and to explore additional resources, check out our latest blog posts.

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Sean Murkar