In our analysis of Top-Performing Sales Organizations, we learned that 66% of companies don't believe their managers have the skills to manage and coach sellers.
Across the board, there's an overall lack of confidence in sales managers' ability to drive change with their teams, lead masterful coaching conversations, and maximize seller results and performance.
But what about the sales managers who get it right?
In this research, we set out to learn what Top-Performing Sales Managers and coaches do differently. We wanted to know how they work with sellers, what skills they have, and if some skills are more important than others.
This global, year-long study from the RAIN Group Center for Sales Research of 1,004 sales managers and sellers focused on the role of the sales manager and how they support their teams. In total, we studied 624 sales managers—333 who both manage and sell, and 291 who manage exclusively—and 380 sellers.
Top-Performing Sales Managers provide coaching and guidance that motivates sellers for high productivity and performance. Our research analyzes key behaviors of these managers and other factors contributing to their success.
Beyond the day-to-day responsibilities of sales management, sales leaders need to be proactive about developing their teams. We researched the coaching methods and frequency that contribute to top performance.
We can benchmark your organization against our proprietary database of Top Performers. You'll learn how your team stacks up and where your gaps are. We’ll then build you a plan to transform your leaders into Top Performers.
We studied 100 skills and behaviors across 12 categories in three areas: selling, productivity, and sales management and coaching.
We found that sales manager success can be summed up in 3 words: rhythm, roles, and conversations.
Top Performers are 51% more likely to have regular, ongoing coaching.
Top Performers are 40% more likely to be skilled at leading valuable coaching meetings.
The 10 roles (5 coaching-focused, 5 management-focused) are all statistically validated as 10 critical areas where Top-Performing Sales Managers excel versus other managers.
Top Performers are 71% more likely to have a manager who excels at motivating for high productivity and
performance.
Top Performers are 51% more likely to receive coaching on a regular schedule.
Sellers with less than 5 years' experience are 240% more likely to be Top Performers when they have an effective manager.
Top-Performing Sales Managers support sellers in their development and help new sellers get up to speed. Our research uncovers exactly what they do to achieve these results and provides tips to help you join their ranks. Download the report now. >>
In our Top-Performing Sales Manager Benchmark Report, we share the results of our research, including:
This is a must-read report for anyone looking to improve the performance of their sales managers and coaches. There are critical changes you can make today that will have a dramatic impact on your sales results this quarter.
© 2023 RAIN Group