Sales reps: You are constantly educating yourself on the newest sales techniques and business trends, right? Well doesn’t it make sense to keep up with latest and greatest in social media? Social media is constantly evolving and sales reps need to evolve with it or risk being left behind.
Social media tools are no longer only used by marketing departments. While it is true that many companies use social media to generate leads, sales reps must also start to integrate social media into there regimen.
Great B2B sales reps have strong relationships with there clients and prospects. In a recent interview by Chad Levitt, Kipp Bodnar, a Social Media Marketing Manager at Howard Merrell & Partners, states that there is a direct correlation between a sales rep’s ability to bond with his/her client and his/her use of social media. Many sales reps don’t see the need for social media, but it can be a very useful tool in fostering and maintaining relationships with customers.
Social media is an up-to-date method of staying on top of the latest information, so for example, when you call your contact you can congratulate him on his new baby or ask him how his vacation was. You’ll already be aware of this information because you’re connected with them via social networks. It adds a personal touch which can take the relationship to a new level. As Kipp states, it’s also a great way to stay in touch between interactions.
While you may not need social networking to make a sale, it definitely helps your overall efforts and increases your chances of boosting client relationships and making effective sales.
