What is an Online Sales Training Software?
Online Sales Training Software is a digital learning platform specifically designed to enhance the selling skills of sales professionals. They encompass modules, lessons, quizzes, role-playing, and real-time assessments tailored to teach, reinforce, and measure the proficiency of sales techniques and methodologies.
Are sales training courses effective, and worth the investment?
Yes, sales training courses have been shown to significantly improve the skills and performance of sales representatives. When salespeople undergo proper sales coaching and training sessions, they learn more about the sales process, CRM integrations, and effective prospecting techniques. This not only helps them close deals more efficiently but also improves their overall sales performance.
Is there direct correlation between sales training and positive results?
Indeed, a well-structured sales training course directly correlates with better sales results. Sales organizations that invest in ongoing training have noticed an uptick in their team members' ability to understand the sales cycle, communicate value, and retain clients.
The "best sales training" can vary based on the needs of sales professionals. However, courses that incorporate real-life case studies, interactive learning experiences, sales enablement tools, and customized training tailored to the organization's unique products and services tend to yield the best results.
What is the best LMS for sales?
Learning Management Systems (LMS) like Salesforce, HubSpot, and LinkedIn offer powerful training platforms for sales. They provide elearning formats, real-time messaging, online courses, and functionality that support both online and offline training for salespeople.
Why is sales training important?
Sales training is pivotal for various reasons:
- Mastery Over Selling Techniques: It equips sales reps with the latest selling techniques and strategies.
- Better CRM Utilization: Sales professionals learn to maximize the potential of CRM tools, leading to better lead tracking and management.
- Enhanced Sales Performance: Continuous learning boosts sales performance, allowing sales reps to outperform their peers.
- Retention and Repeat Business: Well-trained salespeople can better retain clients, ensuring repeat business and referrals.
- Confidence in Pitching: Sales training courses build confidence, enabling reps to tackle challenging prospects.
- Effective Onboarding: New hires become productive faster, understanding the company's sales process and techniques sooner.
- Reinforced Sales Process Understanding: Regular training ensures sales reps remain aligned with the company's sales process and goals.
- Customized Training: Training software can be tailored, ensuring that sales reps learn relevant skills.
- Real-time Feedback: With tools like quizzes and assessments, salespeople get immediate feedback, aiding faster improvement.
Important features to look for in sales training software:
When choosing sales training software, consider these features:
- Customizable Modules: For tailored learning experiences.
- Integration with CRM: Seamless syncing with platforms like Salesforce or HubSpot.
- Real-time Assessments: For immediate feedback and evaluation.
- Interactive Formats: Incorporating webinars, role-playing, and quizzes.
- Authoring Tools: Allows sales leaders to create or modify training materials.
What are the three types of Online Sales training? How are they different?
- On-demand Sales Courses: These are pre-recorded training sessions available for sales representatives to access anytime, anywhere. Perfect for learners who prefer self-paced learning.
- Live Webinars and Workshops: These are real-time, instructor-led sessions that allow interactive discussions, Q&A sessions, and role-playing.
- Blended Learning: A mix of on-demand courses and live sessions, offering the best of both worlds. It combines the flexibility of online courses with the engagement of live sessions.
Top 9 Online Sales Training Tools:
While prices and features constantly evolve, bear in mind that this data is as of the date of publishing. Always check the respective official website or recent reviews for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
1. HubSpot Sales Training:
HubSpot's sales training platform is an extension of its inbound marketing philosophy. The training is based on the idea of attracting prospects rather than chasing them. HubSpot offers an extensive set of courses, tutorials, and tools that guide salespeople through the intricacies of modern selling.
Top 5 Features:
- Inbound sales certification courses.
- Extensive video tutorials and case studies.
- Integration with the HubSpot CRM.
- Interactive quizzes and assessments.
- Real-life role-playing scenarios.
Cost: Courses are free, but HubSpot's other tools and CRM functionalities come at varying costs.
2. LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com):
LinkedIn Learning offers a wide array of professional courses, and its sales training segment is no exception. With courses from foundational sales principles to advanced negotiation techniques, it's a solid choice for sales professionals of all levels.
Top 5 Features:
- Wide range of courses for different sales levels.
- Expert-led training sessions.
- Integration with LinkedIn for showcasing certifications.
- Interactive quizzes and feedback.
- Offline learning capabilities.
Cost: Monthly subscription at $29.99/month or an annual plan at $239.88/year.
3. Cardone University:
Built by sales expert Grant Cardone, this platform is designed for aggressive growth. Cardone's methodologies are direct, and his training is intense, aiming for substantial sales growth in a short time.
Top 5 Features:
- Over 800 interactive courses.
- Role-playing sales scenarios.
- Certification for course completion.
- Real-world sales strategy formulation.
- Continuous content updates.
Cost: Around $995/year (prices might vary based on promotions).
4. Sandler Training:
Sandler Training is one of the top sales training firms globally. Their online platform allows salespeople to engage in their renowned training programs from anywhere.
Top 5 Features:
- Sandler’s Selling System interactive course.
- Reinforcement training tools.
- Sandler certification path.
- CRM learning integration.
- Virtual coaching sessions.
Cost: Varies depending on the courses and package chosen.
5. Challenger Sales Training:
The Challenger Sale methodology became very popular, and their training program helps salespeople learn this approach. The methodology focuses on teaching sales reps to challenge their prospects, offering unique insights and perspectives.
Top 5 Features:
- Core Challenger methodology training.
- Access to the Challenger toolkit.
- Sales performance analytics.
- CRM integration.
- Regular content updates.
Cost: Contact Challenger directly for pricing.
6. Richardson Sales Training:
Richardson is known for its customizable training solutions. It focuses on a consultative approach, emphasizing understanding customer needs and addressing them aptly.
Top 5 Features:
- Customizable training modules.
- Digital learning and AI-powered tools.
- Role-playing and scenario-based learning.
- Integration with most CRMs.
- Continuous learning reinforcement.
Cost: Pricing varies based on customization.
7. Gong.io:
While primarily a sales analytics tool, Gong.io offers valuable insights and coaching for salespeople based on real sales calls. It provides real-time feedback, enabling reps to improve their pitches and close deals more effectively.
Top 5 Features:
- Sales call analytics.
- Deal tracking and insights.
- Role-based learning paths.
- CRM integrations.
- Collaboration tools for team feedback.
Cost: Contact Gong.io for specific pricing details.
8. SPIN Selling:
Based on Neil Rackham's renowned SPIN (Situation, Problem, Implication, Need-payoff) methodology, this training is ideal for professionals in B2B selling.
Top 5 Features:
- Foundation in SPIN methodology.
- Interactive elearning sessions.
- Role-playing scenarios.
- CRM learning integration.
- Certification for course completion.
Cost: Varies based on courses taken.
9. Dale Carnegie Sales Training:
A name synonymous with personal development, Dale Carnegie's sales training courses are centered around building relationships and human interactions.
Top 5 Features:
- Emphasis on interpersonal skills.
- Online live or on-demand courses.
- Role-playing sales scenarios.
- Performance assessments and feedback.
- Reinforcement tools and resources.
Cost: Costs vary based on the selected course and region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sales Training
What is the best online training software?
The term "best" is subjective and often depends on specific needs. However, as of the latest data, platforms like Thinkific, Teachable, and TalentLMS are highly regarded in the e-learning community for their versatility and comprehensive features.
What is the best sales training?
The best sales training programs are those that offer a blend of theory, real-life examples, role-playing, and ongoing support. Renowned programs like Sandler Training, Challenger Sales Training, and Richardson Sales Training have received accolades for their methodologies and results. Still, the ideal program might vary based on an individual's or company's specific needs.
What is the best sales training for beginners?
For beginners, sales training that covers foundational principles and offers a step-by-step approach is ideal. Dale Carnegie Sales Training and HubSpot's Inbound Sales Certification provide a good base for those just starting in sales. They cover essential concepts and offer a beginner-friendly approach.
What is the best online software for sales training?
When it comes to specialized sales training software, platforms like Gong.io, which offers real-time sales call analytics and feedback, and LinkedIn Learning, with its wide array of sales courses, are highly esteemed. Additionally, CRM integrations from platforms like Salesforce also offer training modules tailored for sales professionals.
