New to Sales: A Comprehensive Guide to Basic Selling Techniques

Read this, Newbie...

By Greg Walters, 7-9 minutes

New to Sales? We've Got Your Back, Not Just Your Business Card.

As a newcomer to the sales industry, you have more tools at your disposal for building and maintaining relationships than any previous generation.

​Navigating these tools can be overwhelming for those new to the field.

​Your sales manager will likely advise you to do two things: pick up the phone and get out there — physically. And they're not wrong.

​This advice isn't just for those in a specific sector; it applies to any new salesperson in any industry. When it comes to meeting your sales targets, you're essentially "drinking from a firehose," undergoing a real "baptism of fire."

​Your primary focus should be on engaging with potential clients — not on managing your CRM, attending sales training, or listening to your manager's morning pep talks. Forget about the bells and whistles; focus on solving real business problems.

​The Art of "Getting in Front Of"

Old-school management still values cold calls and door-knocking. While these methods aren't wrong, they represent a narrow view of professional selling today.

Let's discuss five essential tools that every salesperson should be familiar with: the phone, instant messaging, LinkedIn, email, and face-to-face interactions.

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The Phone: Your New Best Friend Cold calls are universally dreaded, but they're a necessary evil. The key is to be quick, spark curiosity, and schedule a follow-up. When a prospect says "no," consider it a favor and move on.

Instant Messaging: A Modern Superpower Instant messaging allows for quick responses, whether you're in a meeting or on vacation. However, earn the right to message your prospects; don't just cold text them.

• In the digital age, LinkedIn has become the tool for salespeople. It’s not just about networking; it’s the place to build credibility, showcase knowledge, and attract potential clients."
• Source: The Imaging Channel, August 17, 2023

The Phone: Your New Best Friend Cold calls are universally dreaded, but they're a necessary evil. The key is to be quick, spark curiosity, and schedule a follow-up. When a prospect says "no," consider it a favor and move on.

Instant Messaging: A Modern Superpower Instant messaging allows for quick responses, whether you're in a meeting or on vacation. However, earn the right to message your prospects; don't just cold text them.

​LinkedIn: Your Professional Networking Hub LinkedIn is more than a networking tool; it's a platform to build credibility and attract potential clients. Use it to connect with prospects, share valuable content, and gather intelligence.

Email: The Digital Business Card Emails are still effective if done right. Keep your subject line short and intriguing, and get straight to the point in the body of the email.

Face-to-Face: The Timeless Technique Nothing beats a good old-fashioned face-to-face meeting. Whether it's a casual drop-in or a scheduled appointment, personal interactions build trust and move you closer to closing the deal.

• Nothing beats a good old face-to-face chat. In the SMB, drop-ins may lead to an on-the-spot business discussion. 
• Source: The Imaging Channel, August 17, 2023

​Crafting Your Sales Strategy

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to sales. Your strategy should be multifaceted, incorporating all the tools mentioned above. Here are some tips for an omnichannel approach:

1. Start Strong: Initiate with a phone call and leave a brief, informative voicemail.
2. Online Networking: Use LinkedIn to establish an online presence and credibility.
3. Turn Cold into Warm: As you integrate these tools, you'll begin to understand your prospects, making your interactions more engaging and less cold.

The goal is to provide a seamless, engaging experience for your prospects as they transition into becoming your clients.

These foundational principles are crucial for your journey into the complex world of professional selling. Don't shy away from using all available tools and channels. As you implement this strategy, you'll become a true professional, projecting both business acumen and authenticity.

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Introduction Paragraph for a LinkedIn Post: "Are you new to the sales industry and feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone! I've just published a comprehensive guide that breaks down the essential tools and techniques you'll need to succeed. From mastering the art of cold calling to leveraging LinkedIn for networking, this guide has got you covered. #Sales #BeginnersGuide"

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Description of an Ideal Image: An image featuring a young professional sitting at a desk, surrounded by various tools like a phone, laptop open to LinkedIn, a notepad for emails, and instant messaging apps on a tablet. The person should look focused but approachable, symbolizing the multitasking nature of modern sales.

Search Question "What are the essential tools for someone new to sales?"

Title "New to Sales: A Comprehensive Guide to Basic Selling Techniques"

Funny Tagline "New to Sales? We've Got Your Back, Not Just Your Business Card!"

Suggested Real Song that Matches the Theme: "Can't Stop the Feeling!" by Justin Timberlake.  This upbeat song is great for capturing the excitement and energy that comes with succeeding in sales.

References

• WalkMe Blog
  • Title: "34 essential sales tools for every sales professional"
  • Date of Publication: 2021
  • URL: WalkMe Blog
• Indeed
  • Title: "17 Essential Selling Skills That Any Salesperson Can Master"
  • Date of Publication: March 27, 2023
  • URL: Indeed
• Crunchbase Blog
  • Title: "The 25 Sales Tools Your Team Should be Using Right Now"
  • Date of Publication: N/A
  • URL: Crunchbase Blog
• CPSA
  • Title: "7 Essential Selling Skills Every Sales Person Should Know"
  • Date of Publication: N/A
  • URL: CPSA
• The Imaging Channel
  • Title: "New to Copier Sales? Another Lesson in Basic Selling"
  • Date of Publication: N/A
  • URL: The Imaging Channel