All workplaces strive towards building great sales teams that outperform others, are more efficient and create a work environment that people get excited for and want to be a part of. The problem though, is few know how to actually develop this kind of great team.
In a team-oriented workplace, contributions by individuals need to help advance the team and ultimately the company. The bigger picture has to drive each individual’s functions. This can be very rewarding to people who thrive in this kind of system. The big question is how does a team build this kind of effective and focused environment.
Team building is not easy. Time and energy must be spent on the task to get the results desired to make a good sales team great. However, here are some basic tips to get you started onto the path of a great sales team.
Communication
The most important aspect of a great sales team is communication. Tasking people with their responsibilities for the day, week, month or even longer helps keep people team focused. Having a system in place where people get, give and get honest feedback from each other is important. In addition, creating a culture where team members are encouraged to communicate with each other both professionally and socially, can assist in developing a great team.
Rewards and Consequences
There needs to be reasonable rewards and consequences for actions of team members and teams overall. If a staff member accomplishes something great, a reward for the accomplishment should be known among all members of the team as something to strive for. Conversely, if there is a time where a member lets the team down, there should be appropriate punishment. Not a negative punishment, but the kinds of punishment that the team and the person can further strengthen their bond.
A Committed Team
Team members need to be committed to making the team great. Making sure team members feel that the goal of the team is important and want to help move towards is a sign of commitment. They also need to feel like their work will be recognized. At the same time, providing ongoing training, opportunities and options is key to keeping a team motivated and committed.
Innovation
A team that is innovative and always looking for ways to improve helps create a great team. Valuing the ideas of team members who might have an innovative idea helps build this culture and keeps creative team members happy. Innovative sales teams often come up with better and unique solutions to any problems and in the end, can outperform teams that focus on one thing and refuse to change from that path.
Feeling Competent
If the team does not feel competent or up to the tasks, they have been assigned, they will quickly dissolve into a negative mindset. If the team does see a weakness in a particular function or task, providing a solution such as targeted training will remedy this situation. Having access to the right tools also contributes to competence, and lack of them can create a serious problem.
Fortunately, here at LePhair Associates we also have a series of assessments that help build these kinds of great teams. Getting insight into staff and each other can really help to understand how to work together and build a great team that is innovative, advanced, communicates well and is motivated to get results. If you would like to learn more about the different assessments we offer and how they can help your sales team, read about them here and then contact us.