An unmotivated team equals a weak team, therefore you need to have strategies to constantly motivate your sales team.
Here are some of the best ways to motivate your sales team whether it is big, or small.
Set Goals
Setting goals seems obvious, but that’s because it works!
Goals are a vital part of how to motivate your sales team – as long as you use them properly. Goals aren’t just about having something to work towards, they’re about challenging your team to do better than they thought they could.
“Choose something that’s achievable, but not easy. It should still be a reach.†– Inc.
Not everyone is going to be motivated in the same way. Is one team member more motivated by big-picture goals while another is motivated by smaller, more specific ones? Consider what goals will challenge each individual person.
Use the Value of Recognition
Commissions don’t motivate a sales team because commissions are expected. Your sales team needs something more to motivate them. That’s why it’s important to see the value in recognition.
“Successful salespeople embrace a healthy level of competition. They see it as a way to motivate themselves and their team.†– COO Alliance
Two methods of recognition that will motivate your sales team are incentives (like gift cards) and acknowledgment or praise. When your team does well, talk about it. Give compliments and thank them. Make sure they know that you genuinely care that they did well. It’s a simple gesture with a lot of power.
Empower Your Sales Team
Not only get employee input on their jobs but use it too. If a team member gives you an idea to make their job more efficient, you need to consider it and implement it if it’s something you think could work. When your sales team sees that you care about their opinion, it puts more value into the work that they’re doing. Work that seems valued is work that your team is more motivated to do.
“Strong leaders value everyone’s input. They know the best solutions only arise when there is a diversity of ideas.†– COO Alliance
Taking your employee’s input gives them a sense of pride and importance, two things that will motivate them to work hard.
Know the Value of Communication
To motivate your sales team, not only do you need to communicate clearly with them, but you need to communicate in the right ways.
“You should communicate with them frequently, and actually speak with them face-to-face. Your staff needs to know they are valued, and communicating in person with them is the best way to show your appreciation for their hard work.†– HuffPost
It’s not very motivating for your sales team to only know you through your email or the odd phone call. Make the time to see your sales team in person every so often. It’s one of the best ways to show your appreciation for the work they are doing.
A Little Competition Goes a Long Way
Competition gets the whole sales team motivated if it’s done the right way. Vary the types of competition so that different people with different skill sets have time to shine. Don’t focus on cut-throat competition, look for something that will push them towards collaboration.
TechnologyAdvice has a good list of contest ideas that push for collaboration and team building, such as:
- The Flash Contest
- Pair Selling
- Creative Pitching
People naturally have a competitive drive, so it’s important to use this to motivate your sales team.
Remember, when your sales team is motivated it translates to increased ROI for the company. After all, your employees are your greatest asset. Follow these tips to keep your sales team motivated!
If you have questions or would like more information, I’d be happy to help. Please send an email, and my team will get in touch with you!
0 Comments