What is Sales Support? Benefits & Tips For Taking Your Sales Team From Good To Best

Sales reps are often saddled with the responsibility of making sales and meeting their set sales quotas. From the first day of the month to the last, there’s always pressure on sales reps to make more sales, increase the company’s profit, generate more leads, and develop more effective sales strategies to enhance overall sales efficiency.

Amidst this sales responsibility, they also have the responsibility of continuously training themselves to boost their sales skills, attend networking events and be socially active across many social media platforms. This is where sales support comes to play. Unfortunately, many businesses neglect the sales support for their sales team, putting a strain on their ability to hit their sales goals.

In this blog, we discuss what sales support is, explain its primary functions, list its benefits, and offer tips for taking your sales team from good to best.

Table of Content

• What is Sales Support?
• What is The Role of Sales Support?
• Why is It Important To Offer Sales Support To the Sales Team?
• Sales Support Activities
• What to Look For in Your Sales Support Team
• How Can Sales Support Make or Break Your Company
• How To Improve Your Sales Support To Boost Sales
• Supercharge Your Sales Team With The Right Support

What is Sales Support?

Sales support refers to the range of activities, resources, and services provided to sales teams to assist them in achieving their sales objectives and effectively serving customers. It involves providing tools, information, and assistance necessary to facilitate sales and enhance customer satisfaction.

Sales support functions typically include sales training, lead generation, sales collateral creation, customer support, and administrative assistance. The primary goal of sales support is to enable sales representatives to be more effective in their sales efforts, improve customer interactions, and ultimately drive sales success for the organization. Most organizations leave sales support responsibility to their sales support associates.

Sales Support vs. Customer Support: What’s the Difference?

Sales support and customer support are distinct functions within an organization. Sales support focuses on assisting the sales team in achieving their sales objectives through activities like lead generation, sales collateral creation, and sales training. On the other hand, customer support addresses customer inquiries, resolves issues, and provides ongoing support after the sale.

Sales support helps close deals and drive sales, while customer support focuses on ensuring customer satisfaction and building long-term relationships. Both functions are crucial in delivering a positive customer experience and contribute to overall business success. Aside from providing support for the sales team, the marketing team also benefits, making it easier to create and distribute marketing materials to enable sales reps to focus on closing deals.

What is The Role of Sales Support?

The role of sales support is to provide assistance, resources, and services to sales teams to help them achieve their sales objectives and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Here are some critical aspects of the role of sales support:

1. Enabling Sales Team Success

Sales support is vital in equipping both the sales team and customer support with the tools, information, and resources needed to succeed. This includes providing product knowledge, sales training, and access to sales collateral and materials that effectively communicate the value and benefits of products or services. Sales support also helps streamline sales processes, such as lead generation, qualification, and opportunity management, to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of sales efforts.

2. Lead Generation and Qualification

Sales support staff often assist in generating and qualifying leads. They collaborate with marketing departments to run targeted campaigns, monitor lead generation activities, and ensure a steady flow of qualified leads for the sales team to pursue. This involves conducting market research, utilizing customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and coordinating with marketing to optimize lead generation strategies.

3. Sales Collateral and Proposal Development

Sales support teams create and maintain sales collateral and materials, including brochures, presentations, case studies, and proposals. They work closely with marketing and product teams to develop compelling content that aligns with sales objectives and resonates with customers. Sales support also helps prepare customized proposals and respond to requests for proposals (RFPs) or quotes (RFQs) by collaborating with pricing and product teams.

4. Customer Support and After-Sales Service

Sales support often collaborates with customer support teams to provide assistance and resolve customer inquiries or issues. This includes addressing customer questions, providing technical support, handling complaints, and ensuring smooth after-sales service. By supporting the post-sales process, sales support contributes to customer satisfaction and helps nurture long-term customer relationships.

5. Sales Operations and Administration

Sales support teams handle various administrative and operational tasks to support the sales team. This includes managing sales pipelines, tracking sales activities and performance metrics, preparing sales reports and forecasts, coordinating sales meetings and events, and handling sales-related documentation and contracts. By managing these operational aspects, sales support helps sales representatives focus on their core selling activities.

Overall, the role of sales support is to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the sales team, enable customer engagement, and contribute to overall sales success. By providing the necessary support and resources, sales support teams empower sales representatives to deliver customer value, close deals, and build strong customer relationships.

Why is It Important To Offer Sales Support To the Sales Team?

Offering sales support to the sales team is important for several reasons:

1. Enhanced Sales Performance

Sales support provides the tools, resources, and assistance that sales representatives need to perform at their best. It equips them with product knowledge, sales training, and adequate sales collateral to effectively communicate the value of products or services. With the right support, sales teams can increase their effectiveness, close deals more efficiently, and achieve higher sales performance.

2. Improved Customer Satisfaction

Sales support helps sales representatives deliver exceptional customer experiences. By providing access to information, resources, and assistance, sales teams can better address customer inquiries, provide accurate and timely information, and offer solutions that meet customer needs. This leads to improved customer satisfaction, crucial for building long-term customer relationships and generating repeat business.

3. Streamlined Sales Processes

Sales support plays a role in streamlining sales processes and improving efficiency. It assists in lead generation and qualification, ensuring that sales teams have a steady flow of qualified leads to pursue. Sales support can also help with administrative tasks, such as managing sales pipelines, tracking activities, and preparing reports, freeing up sales representatives’ time to focus on selling activities. By streamlining processes, sales support enables sales teams to work more efficiently and effectively.

4. Consistent Messaging and Branding

Sales support ensures that sales representatives deliver consistent messaging and branding. By providing standardized sales collateral, training, and guidance, sales teams can effectively communicate the organization’s value proposition and brand identity. This consistency helps establish a strong and coherent brand image, which is essential for building customer trust and differentiating from competitors.

5. Alignment with Marketing Efforts

Sales support helps align sales and marketing efforts, fostering collaboration and synergy between the two teams. By working together, sales and marketing can ensure that messaging, lead-generation strategies, and promotional materials are aligned. This alignment improves the quality of leads generated, enhances the conversion rate of tips into sales, and maximizes the impact of marketing campaigns.

6. Adaptability to Customer Needs

Sales support enables sales teams to adapt to customers’ specific needs. It equips them with the knowledge and resources to address customer inquiries, overcome objections, and provide tailored solutions. By understanding customer pain points and offering personalized support, sales teams can build stronger relationships and meet customer expectations effectively.

Sales Support Activities

Sales support activities encompass a range of tasks and functions that assist the sales team in achieving their goals and delivering exceptional customer experiences. Here are some common sales support activities:

1. Sales Collateral Development

Creating sales collateral such as brochures, product catalogs, sales presentations, and case studies that effectively communicate the value and benefits of products or services. These materials give sales representatives tangible resources to support their sales efforts and engage potential customers.

2. Sales Training and Development

Providing training programs and resources to enhance sales representatives’ selling skills, product knowledge, and techniques. This may include sales methodology training, objection handling, negotiation skills, product training, and ongoing coaching to ensure sales teams have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.

3. Lead Generation and Qualification

Identify, generate, and qualify leads. This involves working closely with marketing teams to develop targeted lead-generation campaigns, utilizing lead management systems, and implementing lead-scoring processes to identify and prioritize potential customers.

4. Sales Administration and Support

Sales support specialists provide administrative support to the sales team, including managing sales pipelines, tracking sales activities and performance metrics, preparing sales reports and forecasts, coordinating sales meetings and events, and handling sales-related documentation such as contracts and agreements.

5. Customer Support and After-Sales Service

Collaborating with customer support teams to provide assistance and resolve customer inquiries or issues. This includes addressing customer questions, providing technical support, handling complaints, and ensuring smooth after-sales service to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

6. Proposal and Pricing Support

Assisting sales representatives in developing customized proposals, responding to requests for proposals (RFPs) or quotes (RFQs), and working with pricing teams to determine appropriate pricing strategies and quotes for customers.

7. Sales Technology and Tools

Providing sales teams with the necessary technology and tools to streamline sales processes and improve efficiency. This may include customer relationship management (CRM) systems, sales enablement platforms, sales automation tools, and data analytics tools to track and analyze sales performance.

8. Market Research and Competitive Analysis

Conducting market research and competitive analysis to provide sales teams with insights into customer needs, market trends, and competitor activities. This information helps sales representatives tailor their approach and offerings to meet customer requirements and effectively position products or services in the market.

These are just a few examples of sales support activities organizations may undertake to assist their sales teams. The specific activities may vary depending on the industry, company size, and existing sales strategies. The goal is to provide comprehensive support to sales representatives, equipping them with the necessary resources and assistance to drive sales success.

What to Look For in Your Sales Support Team

When building and evaluating your sales support team, it is essential to consider several key factors to ensure their effectiveness in assisting the sales team and driving sales success. Here are some important qualities and characteristics to look for in your sales support team:

1. Strong Communication Skills

Sales support team members should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. They should be able to effectively convey information, listen actively, and communicate with clarity and professionalism. Clear and concise communication is crucial for collaborating with sales representatives, customers, and other internal stakeholders.

2. Product and Industry Knowledge

A good sales support team should deeply understand your products or services and the industry in which you operate. This knowledge enables them to effectively support the sales team by providing accurate information, answering customer inquiries, and addressing product-related challenges or objections.

3. Customer Service Orientation

Sales support team members should be customer-focused and committed to delivering exceptional customer service. They should be helpful and empathetic, responsive to customer needs and inquiries, and strive to exceed customer expectations. Excellent customer service skills contribute to customer satisfaction and long-term relationships.

4. Problem-Solving Abilities

Identifying and resolving issues is crucial for a sales support team. Look for proactive, resourceful individuals capable of analyzing problems, proposing solutions, and implementing corrective actions. Strong problem-solving skills contribute to the efficient resolution of customer inquiries and internal sales support challenges.

5. Organizational and Administrative Skills

Sales support involves managing various administrative tasks and processes. Look for team members who are well-organized, detail-oriented, and proficient in collecting data, documentation, and sales-related information. Strong organizational skills contribute to the smooth operation of sales processes, accurate reporting, and effective coordination with internal stakeholders.

6. Team Player Mentality

Collaboration and teamwork are essential in sales support roles. Seek individuals who can work well in a team environment, communicate effectively with colleagues, and foster a spirit of cooperation. A team-player mentality enables seamless coordination and collaboration between the sales support team and sales representatives, leading to improved sales outcomes.

7. Adaptability and Flexibility

Sales environments are dynamic and often require adaptability and flexibility. Look for individuals who can handle changing priorities, adjust to new situations, and thrive in a fast-paced sales environment. Adaptability enables the sales support team to respond effectively to evolving customer needs and sales challenges.

8. Technology Proficiency

In today’s digital age, technology is crucial in sales support. Seek team members comfortable with sales enablement tools, CRM systems, data analytics, and other relevant technologies. Proficiency in appropriate sales technologies enhances efficiency, data management, and effective collaboration with sales representatives.

By considering these qualities and characteristics when building or evaluating your sales support team, you can assemble a capable and effective group that contributes to the success of your sales organization. The right team members will support your sales representatives, enhance customer interactions, and drive sales growth.

How Can Sales Support Make or Break Your Company

Sales support can have a significant impact on the success or failure of a company. Here’s how sales support can make or break your company:

1. Sales Efficiency and Effectiveness

Effective sales support equips your sales team with the tools, resources, and information to perform at their best. It streamlines sales processes, provides accurate and compelling sales collateral, and offers comprehensive training. A well-supported sales team can efficiently and effectively engage with prospects, close deals, and drive revenue growth.

2. Customer Experience and Satisfaction

Sales support directly impacts the customer experience. Customers receiving prompt and knowledgeable support throughout the sales process enhances their satisfaction and builds trust in your company. On the other hand, poor sales support can lead to frustrated customers, missed opportunities, and damage to your company’s reputation.

3. Competitive Advantage

Sales support can be a crucial differentiator in a competitive market. When your sales team is well-supported, they can deliver superior customer experiences, effectively communicate your value proposition, and differentiate your company from competitors. This can give you a competitive edge and help you win over potential customers.

4. Sales Performance and Revenue Generation

A strong sales support system can boost sales performance and revenue generation. Providing the right support, such as lead generation, sales training, and sales collateral, enables your sales team to work more efficiently, close deals effectively, and achieve their targets. Conversely, inadequate sales support can hinder sales efforts, resulting in missed opportunities and revenue loss.

5. Customer Retention and Repeat Business

Sales support plays a crucial role in customer retention and repeat business. Customers receiving exceptional support during and after the sales process are likelier to become loyal and repeat buyers. On the other hand, if customers experience a lack of support or face challenges, they may switch to competitors, resulting in lost revenue and reduced customer lifetime value.

6. Company Reputation and Brand Image

Sales support directly impacts your company’s reputation and brand image. Positive experiences with your sales team can lead to positive word-of-mouth referrals and recommendations, enhancing your reputation in the market. Conversely, negative experiences can harm your company’s image and deter potential customers from engaging with your brand.

In summary, sales support profoundly impacts your company’s success. A well-executed sales support system can enhance sales efficiency, customer experience, competitive advantage, revenue generation, customer retention, and overall brand image. Conversely, a lack of sales support or ineffective support can lead to lost sales opportunities, dissatisfied customers, and damage to your company’s reputation. Investing in and prioritizing sales support can make a significant difference in the growth and success of your business.

How To Improve Your Sales Support To Boost Sales

Improving your sales support can have a positive impact on boosting sales. Here are some strategies to enhance your sales support and drive better sales outcomes:

1. Understand Customer Needs

Gain a deep understanding of your customer’s pain points, challenges, and preferences. This insight helps tailor your sales support activities to meet their needs and provide relevant solutions. Regularly gather customer feedback and incorporate it into your support strategies.

2. Provide Comprehensive Training

Offer your sales support team ongoing training programs to enhance their product knowledge, selling skills, and customer service abilities. This ensures they are well-equipped to address customer inquiries, effectively communicate value, and navigate sales processes.

3. Develop Targeted Sales Collateral

Create compelling, up-to-date sales collateral that aligns with customer needs and addresses pain points. Tailor your sales collateral to different stages of the sales process, providing relevant information and persuasive messaging to assist sales representatives in their conversations with potential customers.

4. Streamline Sales Processes

Identify and streamline sales processes to eliminate bottlenecks and enhance efficiency. Simplify administrative tasks, implement automation tools, and leverage technology to reduce manual work and enable sales representatives to focus more on selling activities.

5. Enhance Collaboration

Foster strong collaboration between the sales support team and the sales representatives. Encourage open communication, knowledge sharing, and feedback loops. Regularly engage in joint planning sessions and sales meetings to align strategies, exchange insights, and address challenges collaboratively.

6. Leverage Technology

Invest in sales enablement tools, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and other relevant technologies to streamline sales support activities. These tools can help manage customer data, track sales activities, automate processes, and provide valuable analytics for informed decision-making.

7. Implement Performance Metrics

Define key performance indicators (KPIs) for your sales support team to measure their effectiveness and track progress. Monitor metrics such as lead conversion rates, customer satisfaction scores, response times, and sales support activity effectiveness. Use these insights to identify areas for improvement and optimize your sales support efforts.

8. Foster Continuous Improvement

Encourage a culture of continuous improvement within your sales support team. Regularly review and analyze performance, solicit feedback from sales representatives and customers, and implement changes based on insights gained. Embrace innovation, learn from successes and failures, and continuously refine your sales support strategies.

By implementing these strategies, you can improve your sales support function and empower your sales representatives to perform at their best. Enhanced sales support contributes to a better customer experience, increased sales productivity, and ultimately drives sales growth for your organization.

Supercharge Your Sales Team With The Right Support

Providing the right support is crucial for supercharging your sales team and driving sales success. By offering comprehensive training, targeted sales collateral, streamlined processes, and effective collaboration, you can empower your sales representatives to excel in their roles.

Leveraging technology, implementing performance metrics, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement further enhance their performance. Your sales team can confidently engage customers, effectively communicate value, and overcome challenges when equipped with the right support. Invest in the right sales support strategies and unleash the full potential of your sales team to achieve remarkable results.