sdm
sdm
Apoorv Jha
Akshat Kandari
Harsh
Naman Nasa
Concept of Sales Management
Sales Management refers to the planning, direction, and control of
personal selling activities, including recruiting, training, equipping,
assigning, routing, supervising, paying, and motivating as these tasks
apply to the sales force.
It ensures that the organization’s products and services are sold
effectively to generate revenue and maintain a competitive edge in the
market.
Key Points:
• It involves managing both the people and processes involved in
selling.
• The ultimate aim is to increase sales volume, contribute to profit, and
sustain growth.
Nature of sales management
Sales management is both an art and a science. It demands creativity in
solving customer problems and strategic decision-making in planning and
execution.
Key characteristics:
• Goal-Oriented: Aims to achieve measurable targets like sales revenue,
market share, and customer retention.
• Dynamic Process: Adapts to changes in market conditions, consumer
preferences, and competition.
• Customer-Focused: Ensures customer satisfaction by understanding and
delivering on their needs.
• Team-Centric: Relies on motivating and guiding the sales team toward
common objectives.
• Continuous Process: Involves constant monitoring, feedback, and
improvement.
Scope of sales management
Sales management goes far beyond just selling. It covers a wide array of
functions that help in achieving overall marketing and business objectives.
Scope includes:
1.Sales Planning: Setting realistic targets and choosing strategies to meet
them.
2.Sales Forecasting: Estimating future demand to align resources.
3.Territory Management: Dividing markets into manageable sections for
effective coverage.
4.Sales Force Management: Recruiting, training, motivating, and evaluating
salespeople.
5.Sales Promotion: Planning and implementing promotional campaigns.
6.Market Analysis: Studying customer behavior, competition, and market
trends.
7.Sales Budgeting: Controlling sales expenses and optimizing profitability.
Sales planning
Sales Planning is a structured process that outlines how a company will
achieve its sales targets. It involves determining sales goals, selecting the
right markets, and deciding on the methods to reach them.
Elements of Sales Planning:
• Sales Objectives: Clear, measurable goals aligned with business strategy.
• Target Market Identification: Segmentation based on geography,
demography, and psychographics.
• Sales Strategies: Approaches like B2B, B2C, consultative selling, etc.
• Sales Territories: Allocation of sales responsibilities by region, product, or
customer type.
• Sales Quotas: Performance standards set for individuals or teams.
• Why it matters:
Effective sales planning reduces uncertainty and provides a roadmap for
achieving revenue goals.
Sales budgeting
Sales budgeting is the financial blueprint for the sales function. It estimates the expected
sales revenue and the costs associated with achieving it.
Components:
• Sales Revenue Forecast: Based on historical data, market trends, and sales force input.
• Expense Planning: Salaries, commissions, training costs, travel, and promotional
expenditures.
• Profitability Analysis: Ensuring that the revenue exceeds the costs.
• Resource Allocation: Deciding how much budget goes to each territory, product, or
team.
Purpose:
• Helps in financial planning and control.
• Ensures optimal utilization of resources.
• Aids in performance evaluation and accountability.
Personal selling
Personal Selling is a direct face-to-face interaction between a salesperson and a potential customer. It's one of
the most effective tools in the promotional mix because it allows for immediate feedback and relationship
building.
Key Features:
• Customized Communication: Tailored pitches based on customer needs.
• Two-Way Interaction: Encourages dialogue and relationship development.
• High Conversion Rates: More effective than mass advertising in closing deals.
• Trust Building: Personal rapport increases customer loyalty.
Steps in Personal Selling:
1. Prospecting: Identifying potential customers.
2. Pre-approach: Research and preparation before the meeting.
3. Approach: First interaction with the customer.
4. Presentation: Explaining product benefits and features.
5. Objection Handling: Addressing customer doubts or hesitations.
6. Closing: Finalizing the sale.
7. Follow-up: Post-sale support and relationship nurturing.
Conclusion
• Sales Management is a critical component of every successful
business. From planning and budgeting to personal selling and team
management, every function is designed to maximize revenue and
ensure long-term customer satisfaction.
• An effective sales management system not only boosts financial
performance but also enhances the company’s reputation in the
market.