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Networking Strategies Every Sales Professional Should Know

Sales Networking 101

Networking is not just an accessory but a fundamental tool for success. Unlike other professions where networking might be occasional, it’s an everyday necessity for sales professionals. The ability to build and maintain a network can make the difference between meeting quotas and exceeding them.

The first step in effective networking is identifying key individuals who can be pivotal in your industry. This doesn’t mean targeting just the high-profile leaders; it involves cultivating a diverse network across various roles and industries. Leveraging platforms like LinkedIn is instrumental here. A well-maintained LinkedIn profile, strategic connection requests, and engaging content can open doors to valuable relationships.

Effective Communication Skills for Networking

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful networking. It’s not just about what you say but how you say it. When you initiate a conversation, do so with confidence and authenticity. A warm, genuine smile and a firm handshake can set a positive tone from the start. However, effective networking communication goes much deeper.

Here are some key points to consider:

Confident and Genuine Introductions: Begin your interactions with a self-assured and sincere greeting. A well-crafted introduction that includes your name, your role, and a brief, interesting fact about yourself can spark curiosity and open the conversation.
Active Listening and Engaging Inquiries: Show genuine interest in your conversational partners by actively listening to what they say. Follow up with thoughtful questions that delve into their interests and professional challenges. This shows that you’re fully engaged in the conversation and helps you understand their perspective better.
Personalized Communication Approach: Tailor your communication style to match the individual you’re speaking with. Observe their communication style – are they more formal or casual? Do they prefer detailed discussions or concise points? Mirroring their style can make the conversation more comfortable and productive.
Expressing Empathy and Understanding: Demonstrating empathy during conversations can build deeper connections. Acknowledge their viewpoints, challenges, or achievements, and share relevant experiences of your own that resonate with their situation.
Follow-up with Context: Follow up with a message or email referencing specific points from your discussion after your initial conversation. This personalized follow-up shows that you were attentive and value the connection, paving the way for a lasting professional relationship.

Leveraging Digital Platforms

In today’s digital age, networking extends beyond in-person interactions. Social media platforms, especially LinkedIn, are crucial for building and maintaining professional relationships.

Regularly sharing insights, commenting on industry news, and engaging in group discussions can establish you as a thought leader. Balancing online networking with in-person meetings ensures a comprehensive approach.

Cultivating Long-Term Professional Relationships

Networking isn’t a one-off task; it requires nurturing long-term relationships. Consistent communication, whether through emails, calls, or social media interactions, keeps the connection alive.

Offering help or sharing relevant information can turn a contact into a valuable ally. This interchange ensures that your network becomes a source of mutual growth and opportunities.

Events and Conferences

Networking events and conferences offer rich opportunities to broaden your professional network. The key to making the most of these events is thorough preparation and strategic follow-up. By researching who will be attending and speaking, you can pinpoint potential valuable contacts to focus on. After the event, timely follow-ups are crucial to cement the connections you’ve made.

Remember, in networking, quality trumps quantity; it’s more beneficial to have in-depth exchanges with a few key individuals than superficial interactions with many.

Below are some focused strategies:

Before attending a networking event, take the time to research and identify key attendees and speakers who align with your networking goals. This preparation enables you to target your efforts more effectively.
Plan for the event and set clear goals for the number of people you intend to connect with, ensuring that your focus remains on quality and meaningful interactions.
During the event, engage in targeted conversations with individuals who match your networking objectives, making each discussion count. Don’t forget to exchange business cards or digital contacts for future follow-up.
After the event, promptly send out personalized messages to your new contacts, referencing specific details from your conversations to reinforce the connection.

Personal Branding and Networking

Your personal brand is your signature in the professional world. Every interaction, online or offline, contributes to this brand. Storytelling about your experiences and successes can resonate more than just stating facts.

A professional image in your online presence and in-person demeanors reinforces your brand.

Networking Challenges & Measuring Success

Networking effectively requires overcoming challenges and measuring success with precision. For many, particularly introverts, initiating conversations at events can be intimidating. Adopting a learning mindset, focusing on understanding others rather than just presenting oneself, can facilitate smoother interactions. Consistently adhering to ethical standards and professionalism is crucial in all networking situations to uphold credibility.

Overcoming Challenges: Networking can be particularly daunting for introverts who may find starting conversations challenging. To alleviate this, shift the focus from self-presentation to learning about others. This approach not only eases the pressure but also fosters more genuine connections.
How To Track Success: Set realistic networking objectives and leverage tools like CRM software to monitor your progress and manage your contacts. This allows you to track whom you’ve met, the nature of your interactions, and potential follow-up actions. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your networking strategies based on these outcomes ensures that your efforts are organized and aligned with your professional goals.

Join Our Network

Networking is more than just a skill; it’s an art form that, when finely tuned, can significantly propel your career in sales to new heights. It demands a strategic mindset, unwavering dedication, and a genuine passion for cultivating relationships.

If you’re on the lookout for your next big opportunity in sales, don’t miss out on the chance to join Rainmakers. Sign up now to connect with a network of top-tier professionals and unlock the door to a world of exciting sales opportunities. Your next career milestone is just a connection away with Rainmakers.

by Joe R

Job Search

A Detailed Guide to SaaS Sales Roles

The Anatomy of SaaS Sales Teams

The Software as a Service (SaaS) industry, rapidly growing and evolving, offers various opportunities for sales professionals. With the global SaaS market projected to reach $623 billion by 2023, according to Gartner, the demand for skilled sales roles in this sector is at an all-time high.

This article discusses the key sales positions within the SaaS industry, outlining their responsibilities, required skill sets, and the career pathways they offer.

In-Depth Look at SaaS Sales Roles

A company’s success hinges significantly on its sales team’s prowess and composition. Each role within this team plays a distinct and critical part in attracting leads to closing deals and ensuring customer satisfaction. Understanding these roles is key to appreciating how they interconnect to drive the growth and sustainability of a SaaS business.

Account Executive (AE)

The Account Executive (AE) is often seen as the driving force in SaaS sales teams. Tasked with managing the entire sales cycle, their role extends beyond mere selling; it’s about crafting a narrative that resonates with the client’s specific needs and challenges. AEs are experts in solution selling – a sales approach that has become increasingly vital in the SaaS domain, where products are often complex and highly customizable. They must be proficient in various sales methodologies, such as SPIN (Situation, Problem, Implication, Need-Payoff) selling or Challenger Sale, adapting their approach based on the client and situation.

A crucial aspect of an AE’s role is managing diverse deal sizes. For instance, while dealing with small-scale clients or startups, AEs might focus on demonstrating immediate value and ease of integration. In contrast, with large enterprises, the emphasis might be on scalability, security, and long-term ROI.

Customer Success Manager (CSM)

In the subscription-based SaaS business model, the Customer Success Manager (CSM) role is key. Unlike traditional sales roles, a CSM’s primary objective is to ensure that customers are realizing the full potential of their purchased SaaS solutions. This role combines technical know-how, customer service, and sales insight.

CSMs work closely with clients post-sale, guiding them through onboarding and ensuring that the product integrates seamlessly into their existing systems and workflows.

Their responsibilities extend to regular check-ins, providing training and resources, and acting as the voice of the customer within their organization. By doing so, they enhance customer satisfaction and retention and identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling.

Analyzing customer usage data, gathering feedback, and communicating this effectively with product teams is crucial for a CSM, as it directly impacts product improvements and customer satisfaction.

Sales Development Representative (SDR)

Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) are often the first point of contact between a SaaS company and its potential customers. Their primary role is to generate and qualify leads, a critical step in filling the sales pipeline. SDRs use a combination of outreach strategies, including cold calling, email campaigns, and social media engagement, to connect with potential leads.

The effectiveness of an SDR is measured not just in the number of leads generated but in the quality of these leads – meaning how likely they are to convert into paying customers. This requires a strong understanding of the target market, including customer pain points, industry challenges, and how the SaaS product can address these issues. Speed and responsiveness are key, as timely engagement can significantly increase the chances of lead conversion.

Technical Sales Manager

Technical Sales Manager’s role requires a deep understanding of the SaaS platform’s architecture, compatibility with various systems, compliance with data security standards like GDPR, and scalability options. They often collaborate with the product development teams to relay customer feedback and help tailor the product to market needs.

A key responsibility is to assist the sales team in complex technical negotiations and discussions, ensuring that the product’s technical aspects are communicated and aligned with the client’s requirements. Their expertise is crucial during product demonstrations, where they showcase how the SaaS solution can solve specific business problems, often customizing these demos to reflect the client’s environment.

VP of Sales

The VP of Sales is a strategic role responsible for the overall health of the sales department. This includes setting sales targets, defining key performance indicators (KPIs), and developing strategies to achieve these goals. The role demands a keen understanding of market trends, competitor activities, and customer needs.

They are responsible for building an agile, customer-focused, and data-driven sales culture. This involves training and mentoring sales teams, implementing effective sales processes, and ensuring the adoption of the latest sales technologies and methodologies. The VP of Sales also plays a crucial role in aligning sales strategies with other departments, such as marketing and product development, to ensure a cohesive approach to market penetration and customer satisfaction.

Fundamental Skills for Success in SaaS Sales

Technical Knowledge

A solid grasp of the underlying technology of SaaS products is non-negotiable.

This includes understanding cloud computing principles and data security protocols like GDPR and discussing integrations and APIs confidently. Sales professionals with a technical background can engage more effectively with clients, particularly when technical queries arise during the sales process.

Strategic Selling and Relationship Building

Given the highly competitive nature of the SaaS market, strategic selling is vital. Sales professionals must excel in identifying customer pain points and aligning them with the product’s capabilities.

Building and nurturing relationships is equally important, as it helps understand and anticipate client needs, fostering trust and loyalty.

Data-Driven Approach

In today’s data-centric world, leveraging CRM tools and analytics for sales is crucial. High-performing sales teams use data-driven insights to guide their actions, as reported by Salesforce.

This approach involves tracking customer interactions, analyzing buying patterns, and customizing sales strategies based on data insights.

From Entry-Level to Leadership

Career trajectories are diverse and rich with growth opportunities. The journey often begins at the entry-level, gradually moving up through the ranks as skills and experience are gained. Here’s a snapshot of the typical career progression in SaaS sales:

Starting as a Sales Development Representative (SDR): Focuses on lead generation and qualification, providing an introduction to the sales process and customer interaction.
Progressing to Account Executive (AE): Involves managing the entire sales cycle, from nurturing leads to closing deals, and requires skills in solution selling, negotiation, and client relationship management.
Advancing to Managerial Roles: Opportunities arise to become Sales Managers or Directors, overseeing sales teams, strategizing sales processes, and achieving revenue targets.
Climbing to Executive Positions: For those with exceptional skills and leadership, roles like VP of Sales become attainable, involving strategic planning and aligning sales strategies with company goals.

Adaptability and Connections

Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for career progression. The nature of this sector demands that professionals not only keep pace with current industry trends and technological advancements but also stay ahead of them.

Pursuing relevant certifications, participating in industry events, and engaging in continuous professional development activities are vital strategies for maintaining a competitive edge.

Alongside educational growth, the importance of networking and mentorship in SaaS sales cannot be overstated. Building a robust professional network opens new opportunities and provides insights into best practices and emerging trends.

Join Rainmakers: Your Gateway to SaaS Sales Opportunities

Whether you’re a company seeking to bolster your sales team with top talent or a job seeker aiming to carve out a successful career in SaaS sales, Rainmakers offers the platform to connect with premier opportunities in the SaaS space.

Employers, discover how Rainmakers can help you find the sales talent you need to drive your SaaS solutions forward.

Job Seekers, join Rainmakers today to match your skills with the perfect SaaS sales opportunities, and embark on a rewarding career path.

by Joe R

Job Search

2024’s Most Lucrative Sales Careers

Tech Sales Leads the Way

Understanding which sectors offer the highest-paying opportunities is key for those considering a career in sales or looking to pivot to a more lucrative field.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top, highest-paying sales jobs, with a special focus on tech sales – the current front-runner in the field.

It’s a well-known fact: not all sales jobs are created equal. The product or service you sell greatly influences your earning potential. Selling low-cost consumer goods rarely yields six-figure salaries, while dealing with high-value items or services, especially in B2B settings like tech, can significantly boost your income. So, which is right for you?

1. Tech Sales Engineers

These professionals blend their technical expertise with sales acumen to sell complex technological products, making them indispensable in sectors like software, hardware, and enterprise solutions. The role demands a deep understanding of the products and the ability to convey their value in a relatable manner to potential clients.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $108,530
Key Responsibilities: Simplifying complex technical concepts for clients, collaborating with product development, market analysis, and strategy formulation.
Educational Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in a related field is typically required.

2. Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives

This unique group handles large-scale sales transactions involving vast quantities of goods, playing a key role in the supply chain. Their work involves interacting with businesses and government agencies, requiring an in-depth understanding of the products they’re selling and the needs of their clients.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $97,710
Key Responsibilities: Attending trade shows, negotiating wholesale prices, and ensuring product functionality.
Educational Requirements: Certifications like CPMR and CSP may be required.

3. Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents

These financial wizards serve as the bridge between consumers and the complex financial markets, dealing with assets like stocks, bonds, and commodities. Their role is crucial in guiding clients through investment decisions, requiring sales skills and a solid grasp of regulations and market trends.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $67,480
Key Responsibilities: Advising on securities, researching financial markets, and analyzing company finances.
Educational Requirements: Mandatory Series 7 and Series 63 exams, with other certifications often pursued.

4. Advertising Sales Agents

Advertising gurus must navigate the shifting sands from traditional to digital media, selling advertising space in an increasingly automated industry. Their role is essential in connecting businesses with effective advertising platforms, whether print, online, or multimedia.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $58,450
Key Responsibilities: Selling advertising space across various mediums, from print to digital.
Educational Requirements: A high school diploma, though a bachelor’s degree is preferred.

5. Insurance Sales Agents

The role of insurance agents extends beyond mere sales; they are advisors, helping clients navigate the complex world of insurance policies. This role demands deep knowledge of various insurance products and a strong ability to build and maintain client relationships.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $57,860
Key Responsibilities: Marketing insurance products, calculating premiums, and customizing packages.
Educational Requirements: State licensing in relevant insurance fields.

6. Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents

Brokers’ and agents’ roles are multifaceted, involving everything from property listing and marketing to negotiation and paperwork. Success in this field requires sales prowess, a comprehensive understanding of the real estate market, and strong networking skills.

Median Annual Salary for Agents (May 2022): $49,980
Key Responsibilities: Assisting in buying, selling, and renting properties.
Educational Requirements: State licensing after passing a pre-licensing course and exam.

7. Travel Agents

This role involves much more than just booking flights and accommodations; it’s about understanding client needs, staying updated on travel trends, and offering tailored travel solutions. This career is ideal for those with a passion for travel and a flair for customer service.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $43,810
Key Responsibilities: Planning trips and handling travel-related issues.
Educational Requirements: High school diploma.

8. Telemarketers

Telemarketers play a crucial role in sales, often being the first contact point between a company and potential clients. Their work, conducted mainly over the phone, focuses on product promotion, customer engagement, and sometimes conducting surveys.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $31,030
Key Responsibilities: Making sales calls, presenting products or services, handling customer queries, and achieving call or sales targets.
Educational Requirements: A high school diploma is usually adequate, but strong communication skills are essential.

9. Retail Sales Workers

This role is pivotal in retail, involving direct interaction with customers, product knowledge, and transaction handling. It is an excellent foundation for honing the interpersonal skills essential in all sales roles.

Median Annual Salary (May 2022): $30,600
Key Responsibilities: Assisting customers, managing payments, and setting up displays.
Educational Requirements: No formal requirements; on-the-job training is common.

The information provided here is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) and the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey.

Ready To Find Your New Job?

As we’ve explored the diverse and lucrative world of sales jobs, it’s clear that opportunities abound for those with the right skills and ambition. Each role offers unique challenges and rewards, from the technical prowess needed in sales engineering to the relationship-building expertise in insurance sales. However, finding your ideal position in this competitive landscape can be daunting.

This is where Rainmakers steps in.

As a platform dedicated to matching sales talent with top-tier opportunities, we provide the guidance and connections you need to elevate your career. By signing up with Rainmakers, you can access a curated selection of high-paying sales jobs, tailored advice, and a network of industry-leading companies.

Sign up now for free and start connecting with top employers!

by Joe R

Job Search

Headhunting Firms vs. Recruitment Agencies

Why Use Outside Help to Recruit

Talent acquisition is a crucial aspect of any company’s growth and success. While some businesses may have internal recruiting teams, others turn to external firms to assist them in finding the best candidates for their job openings. Among these external options, headhunting firms and recruitment agencies stand out as popular choices. This article will delve into the key differences between these two talent partners and guide readers in making informed decisions for their hiring needs.

The Role of Headhunting Firms

Headhunting firms, or executive recruiters, specialize in sourcing top-tier candidates for high-level and administrative positions. They meticulously search for talented individuals with the skills and experience required for these critical roles. Unlike recruitment agencies, headhunters often target passive candidates who are not actively seeking new opportunities but may be persuaded to consider a better offer.

The Role of Recruitment Agencies

In contrast to headhunting firms’ specialized focus, recruitment agencies cater to a broader spectrum of job openings across various industries. They handle everything from entry-level to mid-level and managerial roles, showcasing their versatility in fulfilling diverse hiring needs. Recruitment agencies actively seek out candidates through job boards, online platforms, and networking, engaging with those seeking new employment.

Positions Filled: Executive vs. Diverse Roles

One of the fundamental distinctions between headhunting firms and recruitment agencies lies in the type of positions they aim to fill. Headhunters dedicate their efforts to executive-level roles, including C-suite executives and other top-level management positions. Conversely, recruitment agencies take on various roles, from administrative functions to technical and specialized jobs.

Target Candidates: Passive vs. Active Job Seekers

The approach to candidate sourcing sets headhunting firms and recruitment agencies apart. Headhunters proactively seek out passive candidates, often targeting professionals already holding crucial positions in other companies. In contrast, recruitment agencies focus on engaging with active job seekers actively applying for job openings.

Methods of Talent Sourcing: Proactive vs. Reactive

Headhunting firms employ proactive methods to identify and approach potential candidates discreetly. They leverage their industry connections, conduct competitor analysis, and use networking to uncover hidden talent. On the other hand, recruitment agencies rely on reactive methods, posting job openings on job boards and websites and actively encouraging applications from interested candidates.

Hiring Process: Specialized vs. Comprehensive

Headhunting firms’ hiring process is highly specialized and tailored to executive positions. They thoroughly assess candidates based on the unique requirements of the roles they aim to fill. In contrast, recruitment agencies handle a comprehensive hiring process, from initial candidate screening to conducting interviews and managing the entire recruitment journey.

Industry Expertise: Niche vs. General Knowledge

Headhunting firms often possess niche expertise, specializing in specific industries or roles. This in-depth knowledge allows them to identify the most qualified executives for their clients. On the other hand, recruitment agencies have a more general understanding of various industries, allowing them to cater to diverse hiring needs.

Working With Rainmakers

At Rainmakers, we are a unique blend of both a recruitment agency and headhunter, offering our valued clients the best of both worlds. Our approach combines the specialized focus of a headhunting firm with the versatility and comprehensive services of a recruitment agency. We pride ourselves on tailoring our talent acquisition strategies to meet the distinct needs of each client, ensuring that we identify and attract the most exceptional candidates for their high-level executive roles and entry-level positions.

Our extensive industry expertise gives us the insider knowledge necessary to seek out top-tier executives and specialized professionals for niche roles. At the same time, we are well-versed in the art of proactive talent sourcing, targeting passive candidates who may not be actively searching for new opportunities but possess the skills and experience that align perfectly with our client’s requirements.

Moreover, our recruitment process is driven by a commitment to excellence, combining the thoroughness of a specialized headhunting approach with the comprehensiveness of a recruitment agency. We diligently screen, interview, and evaluate candidates to ensure they meet the job qualifications and align with our client’s company culture and values.

At Rainmakers, we understand that each company has unique hiring needs, whether it be for top-level executives or diverse talent pools. Our versatility allows us to cater to various industries and roles, making us the ideal talent partner for businesses seeking exceptional candidates at every level.

Our distinct blend of headhunting expertise and recruitment agency capabilities positions Rainmakers as a leading talent acquisition firm dedicated to helping businesses attract, identify, and secure the best candidates to fuel their growth and success in today’s competitive market.

Partner with Rainmakers today, and let us elevate your talent acquisition strategy to new heights.

by Joe R

Hiring

Why Work With An Employment Agency

Finding Top Talent

An employment agency is a firm engaged in sourcing and placing employees in diverse roles for a multitude of companies.

At Rainmakers, we operate differently than a traditional employment agency, as we maintain comprehensive profiles for each candidate, detailing their unique skills, experience, and employment history. This database assists us in accurately aligning employees with new assignments that best suit their expertise.

Numerous industries choose to delegate their recruitment processes to employment agencies like ours. This strategic delegation facilitates and streamlines the hiring process, particularly for account executive and mid-level roles.

Furthermore, employment agencies offer remarkable flexibility to employers and job seekers. The dynamic nature of our service allows companies to adjust their workforce as needed and will enable candidates to explore diverse opportunities and work environments.

How Does an Employment Agency Work?

An employment agency follows a systematic process to ensure they source the right candidates for you. Here are the key stages in the recruitment process:

Discussion of Employer Requirements: The process commences with the employer outlining their employment needs to the agency. This includes sharing job descriptions, anticipated salary range, and other relevant information about the vacant position.
Job Posting Creation and Promotion: The agency then creates engaging job postings and advertises them on various job boards and social media platforms. Agencies have expertise in crafting compelling job posts that attract the right talent.
Application Review: The agency initiates the review process upon receipt of applications. They scrutinize the resumes, assess their compatibility with your job requirements, and shortlist potential interview candidates. Modern agencies leverage top-tier recruiting software to accelerate and enhance the review process.
Interviewing: The interview process begins once the potential candidates have been selected. Typically, the agency conducts the initial round(s) of interviews. Depending on your specific requirements, additional rounds might be performed by your company’s personnel. Upon narrowing down to a preferred candidate, the final interview typically involves a company and agency representative.
Selection and Onboarding: Once a candidate has been chosen, the agency extends an offer letter and contract to them. After completing all necessary paperwork, the onboarding process begins. The agency usually manages these administrative tasks, simplifying the process for the hiring company.

The process aims to reduce the burden on the employer, ensuring that they can focus on their core business while the agency effectively manages their recruitment needs.

What are the Different Types of Employment Agencies?

Different types of agencies serve unique purposes in the hiring landscape, offering varying services for job seekers and employers. Here is a breakdown of the various kinds of employment agencies:

Traditional Employment Agency

A traditional employment agency is instrumental in connecting job seekers with employers. Some of these agencies might charge the job seeker, so it’s crucial to understand any associated fees before entering an agreement.

However, most traditional employment agencies are paid by the employer. They often specialize in specific industries, such as sales and marketing, accounting, human resources management, legal, sports, or IT career searches. Considering the multitude of agencies employers retain, it’s generally recommended that job seekers submit their resumes to these agencies free of charge.

Retained Search Firm / Executive Search Firm

Retained search firms, or executive search firms, have exclusive relationships with employers. These firms are generally hired for executive and senior-level searches over a specific period. They excel at sourcing and contacting top-tier candidates, often reaching out to executives not actively job searching to see if they can attract them to new opportunities.

These “headhunters” are compensated for expenses, plus a percentage of the employee’s salary, regardless of whether the candidate is hired. They thoroughly vet candidates’ qualifications before sending them to the hiring manager, as they are committed to presenting the most fitting applicants.

Contingency Employment Agency

Contingency agencies are paid when the employer hires their candidate. These agencies might charge the candidate, so always verify who will bear the fee. Contingency firms are typically used for low and mid-level searches, often forwarding numerous resumes to the employer.

When applying via a contingency agency, be aware that you might be competing with candidates sourced from various channels, including the company’s HR department, job boards, and possibly other recruiters.

Temporary (Temp) Agency

Temporary agencies specialize in finding employees for temporary roles. Such roles can be seasonal or meant to cover periods of increased business activity, vacation cover, or illnesses. Temp agencies often place professional consultants on short-term assignments as well.

Recently, many temp agencies have started offering “temp to perm” roles, where a position begins as a temporary assignment but could become permanent if the employer opts to hire the candidate.

These staffing agencies often act as the official “employer,” issuing paychecks and possibly providing benefits like health insurance, childcare allowances, or vacation pay. If a temp role becomes permanent, the relationship with the staffing agency ends, and the employee is paid directly by their new employer.

How Can an Employment Agency Benefit Employers?

Understanding the benefits of working with an employment agency is crucial for employers. You may have questions about the process, costs, and our role in the hiring process. The ultimate goal is to facilitate a smooth, successful hiring process that benefits both the employer and the candidate. Here’s how:

Crafting Effective Job Descriptions: To attract potential candidates and highlight your company’s appeal, it’s crucial to create compelling job descriptions that align with various industries and job types. Tailor these descriptions to resonate with candidates and emphasize sought-after skills.

Accelerated Candidate Sourcing: When the need for swift hiring arises, consider partnering with experts who maintain a vast pool of pre-vetted candidates and strong industry connections. Leveraging these resources can deliver talented candidates promptly, saving time and effort in the recruitment process.

Asking the Right Interview Questions: Interviewing for roles outside your expertise can present challenges. Recognize the importance of drilling down into specific skills and qualifications relevant to each role. Industry-specific knowledge helps assess candidates’ suitability accurately.

Access to Passive Candidates: Passive candidates, those excelling in their current roles and not actively job hunting, can be valuable additions to your team. However, reaching them can be challenging as they aren’t actively searching for job opportunities. Consider partnering with professionals who maintain relationships with passive candidates, presenting them with enticing opportunities they may have otherwise missed.

How Can an Employment Agency Benefit Job Seekers?

As a job seeker, you’ll find that partnering with an employment agency can offer numerous benefits beyond mere job placement. Their commitment to empowering you is evident in their comprehensive approach, ensuring that you discover a role that perfectly aligns with your professional goals and personal needs. Here’s how they achieve this:

Job Matching Based on Skills and Culture Fit: Throughout their thorough onboarding process, the agency engages in extensive discussions with each job seeker, aiming to understand your unique skills and personal characteristics beyond what’s listed on your resume. Their ultimate goal is to match you with a position that not only utilizes your abilities but also aligns with your aspirations and cultural preferences, resulting in enhanced job satisfaction.

Improving Your Job Prospects: The agency provides personalized assistance to enhance your appeal to potential employers. This may involve refining your resume and preparing you for interviews, equipping you to make a strong impression. With their direct communication with internal hiring teams, they can offer unique insights not readily available through public job postings, giving you a competitive edge.

Access to Exclusive Job Opportunities: By partnering with the agency, you gain access to job opportunities that are often undisclosed to the public. Some companies prefer to recruit swiftly or for niche roles and may work directly with staffing agencies like theirs, bypassing public job postings. As their candidate, you benefit from exposure to these exclusive roles, increasing your chances of landing a coveted position.

Assistance with Negotiation and Onboarding: As you progress through interview stages, their team can assist in negotiating job offers on your behalf. Serving as intermediaries, they facilitate discussions on matters like salary, leveraging their knowledge of market trends and industry norms to help you secure a fair deal. Additionally, they handle the paperwork associated with a new hire, allowing you to focus on making a great start on your first day of work with peace of mind.

What Should You Consider When Choosing an Employment Agency?
When selecting a recruiting or employment agency, it’s vital to consider several unique elements that will ensure you make the right choice.

Certification: Having the right certification is a vital attribute of any trustworthy staffing agency. This is a stamp of approval issued by state authorities, ensuring that the agency has met specific quality standards before embarking on its operations. Request to see this certification to confirm you’re entrusting your recruitment needs to an authorized entity capable of delivering top-tier services.
Track Record: Possessing a certification is only enough if an agency has a substantial track record. Experience is a testimony to the agency’s ability to deliver on its promises. This can be ascertained by exploring their operational history, usually on their website. Agencies that have been active for several years are likely to be more knowledgeable and reliable than newcomers in the field. Also, verify the qualifications of the individuals handling your recruitment needs.
Readiness: The agency’s readiness to commence work is crucial if you’re on a tight timeline to fill open positions. Failure to initiate the recruitment process can disrupt your operational schedule and hamper productivity. Thus, choose an agency that can promptly start working on your recruitment needs.
Cost Efficiency: The agency’s fee structure is another significant factor. It’s essential to find an agency that delivers excellent services at an affordable rate, especially if you’re working on a limited budget.
Technological Competence: In today’s digital era, cutting-edge recruitment tools are crucial in expediting the hiring process. An efficient staffing agency should utilize modern technology, helping you connect with the right candidates quickly and effectively.

Working With Rainmakers

When choosing a staffing agency, certain factors can significantly influence your decision. At Rainmakers, we operate as a true recruitment agency, strongly emphasizing securing long-term job placements for our clients. We take pride in ticking all the boxes to meet your needs effectively and efficiently. Allow us to redefine your recruitment process and help you find the perfect fit for your long-term career goals.

Sign up with Rainmakers to discover the right talent for your team.

by Joe R

Job Search

The Role of Sales Recruiters in Salary Negotiation

The Influence of Sales Recruiters

Salary negotiation is one of the most important steps of the interview process for both the interviewer and the hiring company. Yet the process of negotiating a salary can be intimidating for talent and hiring managers alike. Both need to be aware of industry trends and salary ranges to know what effective talent is worth. In addition, talent needs to be able to advocate for themselves when asking for an increased salary, which can be difficult.

Working with a sales recruiter can help. Recruiters are well-versed in industry trends and salary ranges and know what is necessary to match candidates with employers to fulfill sales roles. Here is a closer look at how sales recruiters help with the salary negotiation process.

The Role of the Recruiter in Salary Negotiations

When you enter into salary negotiations with a recruiter at your side, you gain insider information about salary expectations and benefits packages. You also have someone who can help you highlight the skills and benefits you bring as a candidate so you present yourself well in the negotiation process.

A recruiter represents both the talent and the employer. Their goal is two-fold: they want the candidate to be happy in their new role so they do the job well, and they want the employer satisfied with the hire so they continue their professional relationship. Thus, they will be skilled at bringing the two parties to a mutually beneficial agreement during negotiation.

What specific benefits can you expect when working with a sales recruiter to negotiate your salary? Here are some of the significant ways a recruiter can assist:

Expert knowledge about salaries: Sales recruiters can help both parties know whether a salary offer is fair and competitive. Their insider knowledge can help both parties have realistic expectations for the negotiations.
Help selling talent to the employer: Sales recruiters know what top talent looks like. So if you are a talent looking for a job and an employer match, they can sell your qualifications to your potential employer.
Experience with negotiation: Finally, recruiters already have experience in negotiations. That experience helps everyone get the best possible outcome from the negotiation process.

The negotiation process is filled with nuances. For example, not only do you have to negotiate the pay, but you also have to negotiate benefits and perks, which can be hard to quantify. Your recruiter will help you understand these factors and their potential value so that you can make an informed choice about your employment contract.

Understanding the Benefits of Salary Negotiation

There are several reasons why it makes sense to negotiate your salary. First, negotiation is often where those perks and benefits come into play. You may find it worthwhile to take a slightly lower salary package when you realize that you have flexible work options and a generous medical plan.

Second, the offer presented at the start of the process is rarely the best offer available. Only through negotiation can talent get paid what they’re worth.

Finally, you can start your employment on good terms with your new employer through negotiation. The two of you will get the opportunity to see how each operates. Since the sales process often involves some measure of negotiation, this is an invaluable part of becoming a sales professional.

How to Choose the Right Recruiter

Choosing the right recruiter is a vital step in a positive negotiation experience. Here are some tips to help you find one.

1. Choose a Sales Recruiter

When negotiating for a sales position, you need a recruiter who specializes in sales recruiting. The unique demands of a sales career require a recruiter with industry knowledge.

2. Look for Experience

Next, look for a recruiter or recruiting firm with experience, not just knowledge, in sales recruiting. For example, have they previously worked for major companies or sales firms? Can they back their stated experience with success figures?

Rainmakers has successfully matched tech sales talent with some of the top names in the industry. Our recruiting team can assist you in finding the right position and negotiating a fair, competitive salary with excellent benefits. We have been in the industry since 2016 and are ready to put that experience to work for you.

3. Ask for References

Finally, ask your sales recruiter for references. Check those references, especially if they were talent that found a position through the recruiter, and see how the negotiation process was handled. This information will tell you much about the support level you’ll likely get from that recruiter.

Common Salary Negotiation Mistakes

As you enter the negotiation process, make sure you avoid some common negotiation mistakes. Remember, negotiating a salary is a challenging dance, and you need to understand that dance to succeed. Here are the mistakes that are common but avoidable:

Not doing research into the market and your potential role
Not asking about the employer’s budget, which can guide your request for salary
Opening the discussions with your salary range
Not considering benefits beyond the salary amount
Being too quick to say “yes.”
Turning negotiations into a power play
Negotiating too much and frustrating the employer

Working with a recruiter will help you avoid some of these mistakes.

Negotiating Non-Monetary Benefits

As you enter negotiations, remember it’s not just about the salary. The non-monetary benefits are quite important as well. Remember to consider these in your negotiations. Some common benefits include:

Paid vacation time
Phone or tech allowance
Transportation
Continuing education or professional development
Flexibility to work from home
Healthcare
Childcare reimbursement
Company Equity

With so many potential benefits, it would be easy to overlook one. That’s where a sales recruiter can help, ensuring you know all of your possible options and are getting a compensation package that’s fair and equitable.

Start Your New Career with Help from Rainmakers

Getting hired doesn’t stop with the interview. You must prepare for the negotiation process once you get past the interview. Rainmakers will support you every step of the way. Start the process by joining our talent pool today, and let us match you with employers who need your skills.

by Joe R

sales development representative salary information

Job Search

SDR Salary Guide

How Much Do Sales Development Representatives Make?

It’s getting increasingly challenging to find top SaaS sales talent. In order to identify the best potential sales team members, internal and external recruiters are searching LinkedIn, online job boards, and other resources to find qualified Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) to help fill your team.

Following their experiences working from home during Covid, sales staff are looking for remote employment opportunities that provide flexibility and require less travel time. This is the case everywhere across the country, and it presents challenges in sourcing acceptable individuals and what to offer in terms of base salary and OTE.

As market leaders in hiring tech salespeople, Rainmakers provides a transparent, data-driven platform to efficiently match top salespeople with the most intriguing and forward-thinking tech firms. The SDRs with the highest potential are consequently linked with the most suitable opportunities that meet their qualifications.

How Much Does the Average Tech SDR Get Paid?

Positions as a Sales Development Representative (SDR) are frequently entry-level. Because most candidates have little to no sales experience, it can be challenging to calculate typical pay.

According to data from the Rainmakers platform, an SDR’s base income tends to start at a little under $59k and an OTE of almost $81k. However, SDR compensation will vary due to differences in regional living expenses.

High-demand areas such as San Francisco and New York will command a higher starting base pay—closer to $64k, with OTEs up to $86k. While still a powerhouse in tech development and sales, Denver would pay a bit less with $55k base pay and $83k in OTE.

Because SDR employment is entry-level, pay rarely rises significantly as one gains experience. According to Rainmakers’ research, between five and seven years of experience, on-target earnings start to decline. After seven years, growth resumes, although this is often a result of many sales representatives moving up to management and lead positions.

how much does an sales development rep make

Being a Sales Development Representative

Sales development representatives begin by researching prospective customers to deliver promising sales-qualified leads (SQLs) to account executives for further contact.

The “outbound sales” procedure starts with the SDR locating a potential customer. They then contact them and pass the prospect to another sales team member. While Account Executives are responsible for closing deals, the SDR primarily focuses on research, outreach, lead qualifying, and facilitating the initial meeting with the account executive.

By using SDRs, businesses can divide their sales divisions into specialized teams with in-depth knowledge of particular sales process stages. This strategy works well because it streamlines the lead-to-closing process and enables everyone to work more effectively and successfully.

The best SDRs have a committed mentality, good sales skills, and an awareness of buyer personas. They should also have the persistence and inventiveness that makes things happen. A top-notch SDR should be able to recognize the problems and troubles that prospects are having, then explain how they can help.

They must also have strong research skills. A good Sales Development Representative must be able to “deep dive” into a potential client’s needs to uncover demographic information. Then they must communicate their findings to the Account Executive.

How Long Does an SDR Position Last?

That’s difficult to predict, and much depends on the size of the sales team and the target markets. The larger the company, the longer an individual may continue to fill an SDR role before moving up in the sales team. So while a small business may offer quicker promotion opportunities, overall earnings may be less than a similar position at a larger company. Slower promotion can be made up for with greater OTE earnings, but the SDR’s skill set must also be greater.

On average, SDR positions serving small businesses may last up to a year and a half. Those serving mid-market businesses can last up to two years. And those SDRs targeting enterprise businesses could see themselves staying in that position for two to four years.

After Being an SDR, What’s Next?

SDRs pick up many skills while performing their duties. And they’ve had plenty of opportunities to watch Account Executives and other sales team members.

After working further to develop skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and time management, SDRs can begin exploring the next step of their career. Often, the next logical stage of a sales career would be a closing, quota-carrying position such as Account Executive (AE).

Account Executives are responsible for managing customer accounts. Typical duties of AEs include prospecting for new business, running demos, attending to the needs of current clients, and, most importantly, closing transactions that will bring in new customers and generate income for the firm. For example, where the Sales Development Representative develops initial interest and sets up the first sales meeting, the AE is responsible for following up and closing the deal.

Beyond that, an SDR can move on to roles such as Mid-Market Account Manager, Enterprise Account Manager, or Customer Success Manager. However, these positions and others above will almost always require time spent as an Account Executive.

What Cities Are the Best For SDR Jobs?

The West Coast and innovative technology go hand in hand in many peoples’ minds. The region of Northern California, known as Silicon Valley, is widely regarded as the birthplace of the modern technology sector. San Francisco is one of the leading cities that has benefited from its proximity to the technology sector and its large pool of skilled workers.

Other cities across the US are also becoming innovation hubs for information technology, primarily due to widespread technological advancements. On the East Coast, New York City is in the lead, and it is on par with San Francisco in terms of the number of potential customers for SaaS sales representatives. Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Raleigh are other cities that rank highly in terms of their SaaS sales markets.

SDR Opportunities At Rainmakers

Rainmakers only considers the most qualified candidates for employment, allowing you to confidently interview the highest-quality sales professionals. When we look at potential candidates, we review their sales statistics, such as their performance, what they have sold, and who they have sold to. This enables you to economize valuable time by quickly identifying candidates with the required skills, experience, and personality traits.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can assist you in hiring the best team members for your tech sales initiatives.

by Joe R

Job Search

A Breakdown of an Account Executive’s Salary

How Much Do AE’s Make?

Acquiring the most successful SaaS sales talent is becoming increasingly competitive. As a result, in-house and external recruiters scan LinkedIn and other sites and reach out to qualified Account Executives (AEs) to find top sellers.

In recent years, many salespeople have turned to look for remote job opportunities that offer flexibility and less time commuting. This is the case all across the country, and it’s raising challenges regarding locating suitable candidates and what to offer in terms of base pay and OTE.

As market leaders in hiring tech salespeople, Rainmakers provides a transparent, data-driven platform to efficiently match top salespeople with the most enticing and forward-thinking tech organizations. The best AEs are consequently paired with the most suitable opportunities that meet their requirements.

Duties Of an Account Executive

An account executive typically works in sales, selling goods and services to corporations and/or consumers. For example, they often deal in SaaS products and hardware in the tech field. To succeed in this role, the executive’s employer commonly sets sales quotas, and the rep’s compensation combines base pay and commission.

The AE might receive clients or work on prospecting potential clients and engaging in cold calls. They identify new customers, learn about their pain points and wants in a solution, and then make specific pitches for services and goods that will satisfy those needs before closing the sale.

But the AE’s duties don’t end there. They will also follow up with customer service teams or talk directly with clients to ascertain whether the products are satisfactory after the sales transaction has been completed. Should issues arise, the AE might help find solutions. In addition, because repeat business is among their goals, the account executive is expected to develop positive relationships with the clients.

Account Executive Compensation

As mentioned, pay is usually a combination of base pay and commission. Levels will depend on experience, geography, quotas, deal sizes, and success rate.

Averaged nationally, base pay will broadly range between $60,000 and $150,000. Most Account Executives are on a fifty-fifty split, meaning commissions can range from approximately $60,000 to $150,000.

A talented and experienced AE stands to earn a fair amount. The above information doesn’t include other benefits such as bonuses, equity, or profit sharing. For more salary information, review this helpful guide.

The Role of Quotas

If you’re looking for a new AE to close a specific dollar amount within a year, you may wonder how that would affect compensation.

Although it changes a lot by company, a good starting point is to assume an AE will earn a ten percent commission on the revenue they bring in. An AE with a quota of $750,000 could see additional compensation of approximately $75,000. A $1M quota could see a $100,000 commission, and a $2M quota could see commissions exceeding $200,000.

The Role of Geography

Economic conditions vary across the United States. Where a business or account is located and its customers can also affect AE compensation.

For an AE with 6-7 years of experience, top markets such as San Francisco and New York will see base pays of approximately $91,000 and OTE of $187,000, while Atlanta may see the average base pay drop to $79,000 and OTE to $172,000 for a rep with the same experience.

In the middle would be a city like Chicago, with an average AE base pay of $87,000 and an OTE of around $179,000.

Overall, national data points to a SaaS account executive’s total earnings averaging approximately $167,000 if they have 6-7 years of experience.

The Role of the Buyer

Does account executive compensation vary by the buyer they are selling into?

The impact of the product on the sales cycle will play a role in this. For instance, a software scheduling tool can be ready to use in minutes. On the other hand, a new digital operations platform (DOP) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) system needs time to integrate with any current customer tools.

Some sales contracts will take longer to close, which may affect the overall number of accounts able to close within a year and, thus, the total commissions earned. These longer sales cycles generally command larger deal sizes, larger quotas, and, therefore, larger commissions.

In addition to timing, the department of the buyer has an impact on potential earnings. Therefore, AEs who target specific high-earning departments stand to earn more.

For instance, a relatively new AE who closes with a procurements department stands to earn $135,000 in OTE. Closing sales with an IT department could deliver up to $138,000 in OTE. By contrast, closing with small businesses presents the AE with a potential $100,000 in OTE.

What is Annual Contract Value (ACV)?

Annual Contract Value (ACV) is a crucial statistic that assists in evaluating the effectiveness of your sales teams. A client’s annual revenue to your business is determined by its ACV. It’s the typical yearly revenue per client contract. The ACV is an essential SaaS measure used to market products with annual or yearly subscription plans.

AEs can review their annual customer revenue with ACV and determine which customers to focus on using customer success tactics. Then, once high-value contracts expire, they can use sales analytics and work closely with their Account Management or Customer Success team to keep their top-earning clients.

Consider a scenario where a business examines its sales dashboard and discovers that Client A has an ACV of $50,000 while Client B’s ACV is only $10,000. Client A is bringing in more revenue than Client B, so it makes sense for the business to give Client A a higher priority in time and resources.

But this isn’t a call to ignore Client B.

Instead, an effective business should increase ACVs across the board. This means looking at ways to increase revenue from Client B (and C, D, and so on). This can be accomplished by raising quotas and meeting those goals through upselling and cross-selling strategies and looking if some prices and rates could be increased. This, in turn, leads to higher earnings for both the business and the AE.

What Cities Are the Best For Account Executive Jobs?

Most people think of the West Coast when it comes to top American cities for technology. However, Northern California’s Silicon Valley is well-regarded as the cradle of the modern technology sector, with San Francisco as one of the top cities profiting from both proximity to the tech sector and the skill pool.

In large part, thanks to technology, other cities around the country are also becoming hubs for IT innovation. New York City leads the pack on the East Coast and rivals San Francisco in potential earrings for SaaS sales representatives. Other cities with top SaaS sales markets include Austin, Chicago, Denver, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Raleigh, and Atlanta.

AE Recruitment Solutions At Rainmakers

Rainmakers accepts only top applicants, so you can confidently interview the most high-quality sales talent. In addition, when we look at potential candidates, you can see all their sales stats, such as performance, what they’ve sold and who they’ve sold to. This allows you to save valuable time by quickly identifying candidates with the skills, experience, and fit you’re looking for.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help fill your tech sales needs. Sign-up now!

by Joe R

Sales Skills

6 Cold-Calling Tips That Actually Work

Effective Cold Calling Strategies

There are no two ways about it. Cold calling potential clients can be a real challenge. It’s hard to call a stranger you’ve had little-to-no prior contact with, get them engaged, and then successfully pitch a product or service.

Going through this process repeatedly can be even more challenging.

That said, when done right, cold calling can be a great way to build sales and earn commissions—particularly these days with so much business being handled remotely.

With that in mind, here are some expert cold calling tips to help you bring in more sales.

1. Do Your Homework

The term “cold-calling” is a bit of a misnomer these days. If anything, you don’t want to go in cold. You want to go in prepared.

Study what your clients do, how long they’ve been doing it, and how. Research the best people to call at that business and look them up on LinkedIn or other social media sites. Learn about their experience, responsibilities, and how you might find some common ground. (The chances are good that they’re also looking you up, so have a respectable social media presence.)

While you might not be wholly successful at first, you are more likely to get a positive reception on a follow-up call if you come across as someone who shows particular interest in the company or the person you’re calling.

2. Know Your Prospect’s Challenges

When choosing prospects, select those that need what you sell. Instead of trying to convince prospects to purchase your product or service, find businesses that may be experiencing challenges you can help with.

Any product or service should deliver some kind of solution and value. Don’t waste time with prospects who may not appreciate what you have to offer. Instead, focus on potential clients with a problem you can help solve.

3. Adopt A Cold-Calling Persona

The cold-calling process can be emotionally draining—particularly if you hear the word “no” a lot. It’s hard not to take that personally after a while.

One method veteran cold-callers use is adopting a cold-calling persona. This doesn’t mean being dishonest and coming up with a fake background. Instead, it’s about mentally separating your personal self from your work self. You can do this with a slight change of pitch in your voice. Or simply by tilting your head a certain way when on a sales call.

Consider this akin to putting on a metaphorical business suit you can take off and put aside at the end of the day. It’s a small tip, but it can go a long way in helping you maintain your cold-calling endurance.

4. Know Your Script

If you don’t want to sound like you’re reading from a script, then don’t read from a script.

Memorize, practice, and work in a few alternative lines to make you sound more natural.

Clients can tell almost immediately when someone is reading off a page or computer screen, and it’s an immediate turn-off—knowing your script and presenting it like a human being makes you more relatable and gives you a better chance of success.

5. Try Not To Sound Pushy

Easier said than done, right?

Fortunately, there are three simple tricks to help with this.

Don’t act like a salesperson. Instead, act like a fellow business person or consultant.
Identify your target’s challenges, and then discuss how you can help. Introduce your product or service as a solution to a pain point.
Ask open-ended questions to get the customer to feel more engaged in your call.

The idea is to keep the prospect on the phone. Sounding too pushy will end your call before you can make a pitch for a sale or a follow-up meeting. On the other hand, if you can keep your prospect on the line—with them doing most of the talking—for around seven minutes, your success rates should improve.

6. Identify Why They Might Say No, and Be Ready

Turning a no into a yes.

Before placing your call, see what you can do to identify their reasons for saying no beforehand. If you can figure this out, you’re in a better position to focus on finding solutions and steering your prospect toward finding the value in your product or service themselves and then saying yes to your offer.

We’re All Human

It’s easy to see prospects as numbers and cold calls as mere lists.

Remember that on the other side of every phone call or video screen is a living, breathing person with their own responsibilities, goals, and lives.

The real key to successful cold calling is connecting with people, and the only way to do that is to recognize our shared experiences. We’re all human, after all.

If you are looking for top cold-calling talent for your organization, reach out to Rainmakers!

by Joe R

Career Advice

Top Apps for SaaS Salespeople That Promote Productivity and Wellness

The coronavirus has ushered in a lot of change over the last year. Despite initial economic fears of a global shutdown, those in the sales tech industry actually saw a lot of opportunity open up in front of them as companies were scrambling to set up remote workforces. Suddenly, those who were initially hesitant began seeing the value crystal clear as circumstances changed and industries pivoted to meet new consumer and business needs.

This surge in opportunities for SaaS sales might leave employees feeling stuck in overdrive, as if they should continue to strike while the iron’s hot. Couple this with all the transformations in the work environment and our daily lives and it can shake even your best workers. Finding ways to avoid burnout should be a top priority among workplaces today as it is not only crucial for your own individual health, but for the health of the company as well.

In most instances, you know there’s some kind of solution you could implement to help improve your day or a particular pain point. Cutting through the clutter to find what you truly need can be just as daunting a problem in itself, so you end up just tackling it all head on. Luckily, we’ve rounded up a list of apps that can help improve both your overall wellness and productivity so you can remain a sharp salesperson.

Wellness

Not only does the pandemic put people at risk for catching the virus itself, but at this point, it’s been an emotionally taxing issue for more than a year. Many people who did not sign up for remote work are coming up on a full year of isolation from their coworkers. Some people have already made the transition back to the office, or it is coming up soon, as the vaccine continues to be administered.

All this to say, finding ways to take care of yourself has become even more essential. You never know what curveball is going to come next and the stress can really take a toll on your body, which will have an impact on your productivity.

goPuff

Staying nourished and meeting your daily vitamin needs has never been so important. One of the detriments of a busy lifestyle can be a lack of time to devote to your nutrition and the wear it takes on the body over time. Pre-COVID, you might have been used to meeting up with clients or prospects during lunch, but over the last year this might have changed quite a bit.

Downloading an app like goPuff may just help you keep your edge. Not only does it come in handy when you need a midday pick-me-up, but it is a hassle-free way to get the energy and nutrients you need to make a lasting impression on a prospective client. Plus, this delivery service offers contact-free options.

It’s also helpful on those days when it feels like you’re coming down with something, but need to power through back to back meetings. When this happens, you can get over-the-counter medicine delivered so you don’t have to miss a beat. For other creative, time-saving hacks, browse through what other customers had to say in their goPuff reviews about the delivery app.

Balance the busiest of schedules, without completely sacrificing your personal needs.

FitOn

With so many people new to remote work over the last year, the internet has been abuzz with jokes regarding poor posture due to inadequate furniture to work from. But let’s face it, even a few hours in the best ergonomically designed chair still warrants some break time.

Especially for SaaS sales, you may have small windows during the day in between meetings with your manager or client calls. Getting up and taking a break to get the blood flow going again might just be the refresher your day is missing.

With FitOn, you can choose from a number of different stretching exercises that vary in time and intensity. This is perfect for choosing the best option that fits within your individual schedule and physical needs. Then at the end of the workday, you might want to consider perusing all of the other exercises they have available, from workouts designed to incorporate children to exercise plans that can be done right at home.

Headspace

Whether the pressure is on at work, or you’re feeling anxious from any number of things going on in the world today, one great way to stop and refresh yourself is to meditate. Meditation can be particularly helpful, especially now with resources available like Headspace.

Choose from their large selection of guided meditations tailored to your specific needs. It doesn’t matter if you’re new, or have been practicing this exercise for years. Their clips each have someone calmly guiding you through the process step by step.

We’ve all been there, in the middle of a frustrating quarter, and you’re finding it hard to focus or feeling irritated because leads aren’t converting. With guides surrounding focus, anger, creativity and many more, you can have a quick session to work through these moments to renew yourself and pivot your momentum. If you’re unsure if meditation is for you, consider checking out what other users had to say about their experiences using Headspace.

Talkspace

Another impactful part of our health that can interfere with performance is our mental health. Reports of anxiety and depression are reaching new highs, so if you share these concerns know you are not alone. Your mental health shouldn’t just be a priority because it is affecting how productive you are in a day, but because it is our system of coping mechanisms for taking in not only our job but everything else going on around us everyday.

With that being said, you may not have even been aware you were struggling until it started seeping into your workday. Whether or not it gets that bad, its best to try to connect with a professional. For a SaaS salesperson, you might typically find it difficult to add in a commute or a non-work appointment with a counselor to address these concerns of yours. Luckily, with an app like Talkspace, you can have 24/7 access when you need it, and eliminate an extraneous commute altogether.

Talkspace is covered for many by their insurance provider or as part of their company’s employee assistance programs (EAP). Check out your own eligibility to get started on your mental health journey.

Productivity

Once your mind and body are well cared for you can get into the nitty gritty of your individual workflow. As a SaaS sales professional, you’ll need to be keeping tabs on the burgeoning tech trends and also be able to converse with business professionals speaking to some of their more general business interests. Here’s our roundup to fine-tune your productivity.

Evernote

Spend a day in the life of a SaaS salesperson, and you’re sure to want something to help keep your thoughts organized. Each meeting has a different string of thoughts. Being prepared for a meeting with your manager is quite different than a meeting with a prospective client, not to mention how different your clients might be from one another.

With an app like Evernote you can sync your project and meeting notes across your devices. You also have the capability to add in photos or pertinent documents. Or maybe you want to record the meeting so you are actively engaged in the conversation without the distraction of note-taking. You can add the audio file right to your meeting notes and go back through later to jot down any highlights you may want to circle back to.

There are various note templates available to get you started that can keep even the most scattered of note takers end up with an organized record for each meeting, project, or client.

Flipboard

Working in tech sales means keeping tabs on the industry as a whole. When a prospect asks how your product will fit into their established workflow, you’ll need to be able to speak to how it will improve, supplement, integrate or replace any number of their existing systems.

Staying informed is essential to your on-going success. Every tidbit you pick up is preparation for getting that lead all the way through your sales funnel. While we certainly don’t live in a time with a shortage of information or information sharing, this usually just makes finding the most pertinent resources difficult.

With an app like Flipboard you can cut through irrelevant news to create your very own curated feed of tech and software updates and insights. Not only can you get this customized news, but you can browse through flipboards when brushing up on other industries. Looking for talking points for a prospective sale? Check Flipboard to see if anything of relevance is up and coming in their field and connect it back to your software’s capabilities.

SmartUp

Taking a step back from the tech and software specifics, another great tool at a salesperson’s disposal is being able to touch on the value of the product to their more general business interests. It’s also likely that as a salesperson, you’ll come across young businesses, start-ups, or companies that started out as such. Being familiar with venture capital could really step up your pitch.

With SmartUp, you can dive into the knowledge sharing space and either build upon your business wits or start totally from scratch. This app gives you access to learning communities of your choice where you can share what you learn, ask questions, and make yourself a stronger overall salesperson.

Final Words

As any good sales professional knows, having the ability to be flexible and make the most of opportunities is absolutely essential to your day to day and long term success. However, investing in yourself is also crucial to that success. Being your most productive and valuable self comes from a place of balance and setting aside time to make your health a priority and leaving time for personal development.

by Michael Ferguson