Tag: Make sales

New Year, New Sales

Posted on January 31, 2025 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

The race to drive sales that thrive in 2025

The race to drive sales that thrive in 2025. 

 

There is nothing quite like a new year to get us really revved up to set new goals. Just ask the people in the treadmill queue at the gym. Every. Single. January. Whether it’s setting your sights on a victory on your scale, or trying to scale up your sales victories, there is no time like Jan to plan.

 

It is, however, often a little daunting to know where to start. Especially when the 365 days of blank pages in your new leatherbound 2025 diary stare back at you somewhat accusingly.

 

Related: The ultimate guide to creating a winning B2B sales strategy

 

Get your mind ready first 

As many fortune cookies profess, a journey of a thousand steps starts with just one. No one has ever won a race from the starting blocks. So, how does one take that initial step? For the love of metaphors and our queuing treadmill friends – let’s liken planning our sales targets to running a marathon.

 

As anyone in sales knows, the sales game is a marathon, not a sprint. 

 

Much like marathon running, and most things goal-oriented, the best way to start is with the end in mind (thanks Franklin Covey). So, what does that mean for us? Well, it means we take our first step with our sights on the end goal. This ensures our first steps – and subsequent decisions – are all moving in the right direction.

 

The “get set” part of “On your marks, get set, go!” is very important.

 

You’re in the starting blocks, at your mark. How do you get set? You prepare your mind. Call it visualisation, call it preparation, call it whatever you like, but knowing where you want to go is a surefire way to make sure you get there.

 

Imagine running a race without knowing how far it is, or where the finish line is. Exhausting? Yes. Pointless? Yes. Busywork? Yes. Do you want that? No.

 

So, if you are ready to start, get yourself a finish line, and get set.

 

Aim for the finish  

In both sales and running, you want to plan your first step in a way that will ensure you reach your final one. Whether it is stretching or cold calling, the finish line is what helps you tie your shoelaces on those wintery mornings, or what gets you out of bed after a week of sales rejections.

 

So, what’s your finish line? No, seriously, I want you to think about it for a minute. What do you want the end of this year to look like for you? Stop reading for a second. Pause, and picture it.

  • Get a clear picture of it in your mind. Now, make it clearer.
  • Next, imagine how that accomplishment will make you feel.
  • Finally, memorise it. Write it down, stick it on your fridge, display it as your screensaver, do whatever you have to do to remind yourself every day, with every email, every interaction, every cent spent along the way, why you started this race in the first place.

 

Then, step toward it consciously and progressively each day.

 

Keeping your finish line in mind is equally helpful to turn rejection into redirection. Just because a runner stumbles during a race, doesn’t mean the finish line moves. Or that the race is over. So, when you don’t close that sale, instead of looking down at where you stumbled, it’s a helpful guide to look up at where you are going. Cliché, yes, but effective.

 

The steps in between 

Sales is a numbers game. So should your goal setting be. Quantify your finish line so that you can quantify your progress. A marathon is quantified. What I mean by this, is that it has allocated times, preset distances, certain qualifying criteria and categories, etc.

 

When we have set measurements, we set ourselves up to succeed.

 

So, what does this mean for sales? Let’s say you want to double your sales in 2025. Big goal.

 

It either means you need to double your efforts:

  • call more people,
  • make more customer visits,
  • widen your geographical area.

 

Or, that you need to double your efficiency:

  • automate admin,
  • automate stock prices and inventory level updates,
  • digitalise your product catalogue,

 

And remember, you can alternate between these different levers to success along the way.

 

Related: The best apps for sales reps

 

Essentially, you need to ask yourself, “What do double yearly sales look like quarterly, monthly, and all the way down to daily actions?” If doubling sales requires double efforts, it means you need to send twice as many emails, reach twice as many people, and likely burn out twice as fast.

Or, you can work smarter-not-harder by implementing the best sales tech for sales reps and managers to help you do this.

 

Remember to take water breaks 

‘Hydrate’ and recalibrate as needed. Set check-in points along the way to see how far you’ve come and how far you have left to go. Once we’ve started our marathon, it can be become surprisingly difficult to stop if we didn’t plan our breaks beforehand.

 

Consciously set reflection points along the way to ensure that you are on the right track. If you are running a marathon and fail to notice the 10km mark, you are not likely to pace yourself correctly and could fail to finish. Schedule these mini–strategy realignment sessions in your diary. And make sure they happen, so that you always prioritise progress over motion.

 

So, all in all, sales is a race. It involves training, preparation, hydration. Heck, even perspiration. But being willing to plan properly now, means being able to cross the finish line as a winner.

 

Best Apps for Sales Reps

Posted on January 6, 2025 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

best apps for sales reps

 

Sales reps are the backbone of any business, whether they’re pounding the pavement or connecting with clients digitally. But let’s be honest: life on the road or juggling multiple accounts isn’t always smooth sailing. Here are some of the best apps for sales reps that help solve the daily grind, from missed opportunities to endless admin tasks.

The challenges sales reps face

Before diving into the apps, let’s set the scene. Here are a few common challenges sales reps encounter every day.

  • Time management: With meetings, travel, follow-ups, and admin tasks, reps often struggle to prioritise their time effectively.
  • Lack of organisation: Keeping track of client details, sales targets, and notes can become overwhelming without the right tools.
  • Communication breakdowns: Coordinating with team members and clients is tricky without seamless communication channels.
  • Inconsistent reporting: Let’s be honest – nobody ever hired a sales rep for their admin skills. Reps frequently wrestle with spreadsheets and clunky systems.
  • Limited insights: Without real-time data, reps lack visibility into stock levels, customer history, and sales performance.

 

Fortunately, there’s an app for that—several, in fact!

Best Apps for Sales Reps

Here is a breakdown of sales rep apps that we’ve found work wonders for reps in the field.

1. Skynamo

Of course, this is where it all begins. And where manual admin ends. Skynamo ensures sales reps spend more time selling, and less time battling admin. When it comes to sales apps tailored for reps, Skynamo is the ultimate game-changer. Specifically designed for field sales teams, Skynamo blends intelligence, automation, data insights, and user-friendly features to tackle the challenges above.

Key features of Skynamo

  • Order capturing: Reps can capture orders from anywhere, at any time. Ordering on the go eliminates manual entries later on, forgotten orders, and improves accuracy.
  • Digital catalogues for easier sales: It doesn’t get easier than this. Point and click. No more out-dated printed catalogues. Only the latest info, prices, and products on your device.
  • Real-time data access: Skynamo syncs seamlessly with your company’s CRM or ERP system, so reps have instant access to customer histories, stock levels, and pricing.
  • Route optimisation: The mobile sales app helps reps plan the most efficient routes, saving time and reducing travel costs.
  • Offline functionality: Working in remote areas with spotty internet? No problem. Skynamo works offline and syncs automatically once you’re back online.
  • Sales reporting: Forget the spreadsheet slog. Skynamo simplifies reporting with automated updates, giving managers and reps a clear picture of performance.

Why reps love it

  • Easy to use, even for the least tech-savvy among us.
  • Boosts productivity by automating repetitive tasks.
  • Provides valuable insights that enable data-driven decision-making.

 

If you’re serious about equipping your team with the best app for sales reps, Skynamo should top your list.

The Skynamo advantage

While there are many apps available that are invaluable in their own niche – such as Slack for team comms, or Whatsapp for quick chats, few can match Skynamo’s ability to address multiple challenges simultaneously. Here’s why.

1. Data-driven decisions

Skynamo’s integration with your accounting or ERP system provides real-time insights, enabling reps to make informed decisions about which products to pitch or which clients to prioritise.

2. Efficiency on the go

From route optimisation to offline functionality, Skynamo is designed for reps who need to stay productive regardless of where they are.

3. Simplified reporting

Automated reporting saves reps hours of admin work, allowing them to focus on what they do best: selling.

4. Customer Relationship Management

By providing a centralised view of each customer, Skynamo helps reps nurture relationships, close deals faster, and deliver better service.

How to choose the best app for sales reps

While Skynamo offers unmatched functionality for sales reps, it’s important to complement it with other tools that address niche needs. Here’s a quick checklist for evaluating apps:

  • Ease of use: Is the app intuitive and user-friendly?
  • Integration: Can it sync with your existing tools? See Integrations.
  • Scalability: Will it grow with your team’s needs?
  • Support: Does the app offer reliable customer service? See Support.

 

Get the best app for your field sales team today

Sales reps are at their best when they’re equipped with the right tools. Whether you’re managing client relationships, planning your day, or reporting on your wins, the right apps can make all the difference. And if you’re serious about boosting your team’s productivity and performance, Skynamo stands out as the best app for sales reps.

 

So, what are you waiting for? Equip your sales team with Skynamo, the app built for sales reps on the go, and watch their productivity soar—because every great sales story starts with the right technology.

best apps for sales reps

 

FAQs

What is the best app for sales reps?

The best app for sales reps is one that simplifies their day-to-day tasks while supercharging their productivity—and that’s Skynamo. With features like real-time data access, route optimisation, offline functionality, and automated reporting, Skynamo ensures reps spend more time selling and less time battling admin. It’s the go-to app for sales teams who want to work smarter, close more deals, and stay ahead of the competition.

What software do sales reps use?

Sales reps use a variety of software to meet their needs, but the smartest reps rely on Skynamo. Unlike generic tools, Skynamo is built specifically for field sales teams, integrating with CRMs and ERPs to provide instant access to critical data. From capturing orders on the go to providing insights that inform smarter sales strategies, Skynamo covers all the bases, ensuring reps always have the tools they need to succeed.

How do I find a sales rep online?

You can search for sales professionals through platforms like LinkedIn. However, a smart strategy is ensuring your team is equipped with Skynamo to identify new leads, maintain customer relationships, and stay competitive. With Skynamo’s data-driven approach, your sales reps can focus on building meaningful connections that drive results.

Can sales reps make good money?

Absolutely! Sales reps can make excellent money, especially when equipped with a tool like Skynamo that maximises their efficiency and effectiveness. It automates repetitive tasks, provides real-time insights, and enables smarter decision-making. Skynamo empowers reps to close more deals faster. With the right app and determination, sales reps can turn their hard work into significant financial rewards.

 

How Technology Helps Women Today Be the Ultimate Multitaskers That They Are

Posted on August 14, 2024 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

How Technology Helps Women Today Be the Ultimate Multitaskers That They Are

Let’s face it: women are expected to do it all. And not just do it all, but do it all with a smile, while wearing multiple hats, and without breaking a sweat. You’re a sales manager, a sister, a mother, a friend, a homemaker, a sports enthusiast, and probably a few more things before your first cup of coffee kicks in. It’s impressive, it’s exhausting, and frankly, it’s borderline superhuman. But here’s the thing—no one, not even Wonder Woman, can do it all alone. Thankfully, technology is here to lend a helping hand, and make the impossible slightly more possible.

 

The Many Faces of Modern Womanhood

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve got a daily to-do list that makes the average person break out in a cold sweat. In one day, you might be closing a deal, scheduling a dentist appointment, and planning a surprise birthday party—without forgetting to outline next year’s sales strategy and hit the gym. You’re essentially the CEO of your life, and you manage the different departments with precision.

The world has always expected a lot from women, but today’s demands are on another level. You’re not just keeping the home fires burning; you’re also expected to fan the flames of a thriving career, maintain friendships, and keep up with personal interests. Oh, and don’t forget to stay fit and drink enough water. The pressure is real, and it’s relentless. Thankfully, there’s tech to help you navigate this crazy maze without losing yourself in the madness.

 

When Nature Meets Technology: Womankind’s Secret Weapon

Sure, women have always been good at multitasking. It’s practically written into the genetic code. But let’s be honest—evolution didn’t prepare us for juggling Zoom calls, soccer practice, and meal prep, all while keeping up with the latest Netflix series.

Thankfully, we have access to so many bespoke tech tools that can boost our already impressive multitasking abilities and help us stay on top of our game.

With the right technology in your corner, it’s also doable. Tech tools are not just about convenience—they make it possible for you to manage the impossible and still have time for the things (and people) you love.

 

Let’s Talk Sales Tech: Skynamo – The Sales Manager’s Best Friend

In the sales world, being a manager is like spinning plates, except the plates are on fire and your to-do list is written in disappearing ink.

Where there’s good sales teams, there’s Skynamo. For sales managers, Skynamo keeps the wheels turning, saves you time, gives you clarity, and adds some serious horsepower under the hood.

With Skynamo, those mind-numbing admin tasks that drain your will to live and take hours to finish are taken care of. Think order processing, reporting, and route planning — automatically done — so you can focus on what really matters, like coaching your team or spending that extra hour with your family.

The platform’s real-time data analytics give you the clarity to make quick, informed decisions. And because Skynamo is mobile-friendly, you can stay connected and in control whether you’re at the office, on the road, or in line for your morning latte.

By making your sales processes more efficient, Skynamo isn’t just saving you time; it’s giving you back your peace of mind. That means more quality time with your kids, more attention to your team, and maybe, just maybe, a little time for yourself.

 

Let’s Talk Calendars: Organising Life’s Chaos

Outside the office, life is no less hectic. The good news? There’s an app for that. Need to organise a chaotic family schedule? Look no further than Cozi or Google Calendar. These tools are like having a personal assistant in your pocket, so that everyone’s on the same page and nothing is overlooked.

Trello or Asana are godsends when it comes to breaking down big projects—be it planning a family vacation or managing a home renovation—into manageable chunks. Set your deadlines, assign tasks, and watch your to-do list shrink with satisfying checkmarks.

 

Let’s Talk Friends and Fitness: Staying Connected, Staying Sane

Between work, family, and everything in between, staying connected with friends can feel like an impossible task. Thankfully, technology makes it easier to maintain those vital social bonds. Whether it’s a quick message, a shared meme, or a long-overdue video call, apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Zoom help keep friendships alive, even when time and distance threaten to get in the way.

For those who need a fitness fix, apps like Strava or MyFitnessPal are your personal trainers, workout buddies, and cheerleaders all rolled into one. These platforms not only help you stay on track with your fitness goals but also offer a much-needed outlet for stress relief and personal accomplishment.

 

Tech for Self-Care

Now, let’s talk about self-care—a concept that often feels like a luxury, but is actually a necessity. Meditation apps like Calm or Headspace help you carve out a few minutes of tranquillity in an otherwise chaotic day. Just a few moments of mindfulness can work wonders for your mental health, helping you recharge and tackle the next challenge with renewed energy.

And for the coffee enthusiasts out there, apps like Starbucks ensure that your caffeine fix is never far away. Because sometimes, the only thing standing between you and a complete meltdown is a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.

 

This Woman’s Month, Here’s More Power – and More Tech – to You

So, there you have it: a glimpse into how technology is helping women not just survive, but thrive in their multifaceted roles. Whether it’s organising your chaotic schedule, keeping you connected with loved ones, or giving you the tools to excel in your career, technology is the ultimate support system. It amplifies your natural multitasking abilities, making you the ultimate multitasker you were always meant to be.

As women continue to redefine success, platforms like Skynamo are here to support, guide, and empower them every step of the way. Because while being a superhero might seem impossible, with the right tech, it’s just another day at the office.

 

Sales AI Redefined for Sales Success

Posted on July 8, 2024 by - Skynamo news (press releases, media coverage), Sales & Technology (how tech is helping, trends), Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

Sales AI Redefined for Sales Success

We don’t do artificial. We do actionable.

The buzz around Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undeniable, especially in the dog-eat-dog world of sales. But at Skynamo, we believe AI is more than just algorithms and automation. It’s about empowering your sales teams with intelligence that’s actual, accountable, annual, actionable, and accurate. Let’s explore how Skynamo is redefining AI for sales.

1.  When you need Sales AI to mean “Actual Intelligence”: Turn Data into Profit

Because, in sales, we don’t get participation awards just for trying. We need to win. And, in the age of big data, it’s not about who has the most information, it’s about who can extract the right insights.

Read our blog on how to optimise your B2B sales strategy this year.

Skynamo RADAR, our advanced analytics tool, transforms your raw customer data into actionable victory.

  • Identify Trends: Spot emerging patterns in customer behaviour, product performance, and sales cycles.
  • Optimise Pricing: Make informed decisions about pricing strategies based on real-time market data.
  • Personalise Experiences: Tailor your sales approach to individual customers for maximum impact.
  • Boost Profitability: Uncover hidden opportunities to increase revenue and reduce costs.

With Skynamo RADAR, you’re not just collecting data, you’re turning it into a powerful engine for profit.

2.  When you need your Sales AI to mean “Accountable Intelligence”: Keep your team on their toes

Sales managers get a clear view of their team’s activities to ensure everyone is on track.

  • GPS Tracking: Know where your reps are in real-time. Get efficient territory coverage that turns into conversions. No more guesswork. No more empty shelves.
  • Task Management: Track the progress of individual tasks and overall goals like a hawkeye ref.
  • Performance Monitoring: You can monitor sales performance against targets, identify top performers, and address areas for improvement.

Skynamo’s accountable intelligence fosters a culture of transparency and accountability. This always leads to higher team performance and improved results.

You might enjoy our blog on why tracking tech is really good for your sales game.

 

3.  When you really want sales AI tools to give you “Annual Intelligence”: Lean from the past to win in the future

Understanding your sales performance over time is crucial for long-term growth. Skynamo’s annual intelligence dashboards give you the historical perspective you need.

  • Year-on-Year Comparisons: Track changes in sales figures, customer behaviour, and product trends over time.
  • Seasonal Insights: Identify peak sales periods and adjust your strategies accordingly.
  • Forecasting: Predict future sales trends based on historical data, allowing for proactive planning.

When you have annual sales data at your fingertips, you can eliminate knee-jerk reactions, and make fast, data-informed decisions that drive sustainable growth year after year.

See what Skynamo RADAR can unlock for you.

 

4.  Accurate Intelligence: Know your customers (and team) inside out

The key to sales success? Data-backed decisions. Skynamo takes your disparate data, and gives you live, accurate intelligence in highly-visual, real-time dashboards to inform every aspect of your sales strategy.

  • Customer Profiling: Build detailed customer profiles based on purchase history, preferences, and interactions.
  • Sales Team Insights: Identify your top performers, understand individual strengths and weaknesses, and tailor training accordingly.
  • Competitor Analysis: Keep tabs on your competition and adjust your play accordingly.
  • Market Research: Gain insights into market trends, customer needs, and emerging opportunities.

With Skynamo’s accurate intelligence, you can confidently make decisions that lead to improved customer relationships, increased sales, and long-term success.

 

5.  Actionable Intelligence: Get off the bench and into the game

Data without action is meaningless. Skynamo goes beyond just giving you data; we equip your team with the analysis to act on those insights effectively.

  • Smart Recommendations: Receive personalised suggestions for the next best actions to take with each customer, based on their unique profile and behaviour.
  • Automated Workflows: Streamline your sales processes with automated workflows that trigger actions based on specific events or criteria, so you can act faster than a Kolbe sidestep.
  • Sales Playbooks: Create and share winning strategies that guide your team through proven sales strategies

Skynamo: Bringing sales AI to life. Literally.

Skynamo isn’t just another sales AI tool. It’s a comprehensive platform designed to empower your sales team with the intelligence they need to win. By redefining AI with a winning approach, we’re helping businesses unlock their full sales potential.

So, if you’re ready to tackle your sales challenges head on, request a demo today and let’s see how we can transform your sales processes.

After all, winning is a habit, and with Skynamo, you’ll be forming good habits from the get-go.

From flirtation to integration – Make it official in March

Posted on March 1, 2024 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

From flirtation to integration - Make it official in March

As the fanfare of February’s amorous escapades settle, and the last of the heart-shaped chocolates are begrudgingly consumed from the clearance aisle, we find ourselves on the cusp of a new month. Ah, March – a time of transition, where the remnants of summer’s relentless heat reluctantly give way to the first cool tendrils of autumn. And what better way to usher in this season of cosying up than by taking the plunge with that wickedly smart, easy-on-the-eye entity that’s been catching your interest? No, not the barista with the asymmetrical haircut – I’m talking about Skynamo.

How to swipe left on sales fatigue and fall in love with selling again

Posted on February 19, 2024 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

How to swipe left on sales fatigue and fall in love with selling again

You’re just a salesperson, standing in front of a prospect… asking them to love your product.

 

It’s the romantic comedy of errors that can be the selling profession. See the thing is, selling and dating are a dynamic duo of similarities, that frankly we don’t talk enough about. So let’s unpack the parallels shall we?

Cupid meets commerce: The 5 love languages of B2B sales

Posted on February 12, 2024 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

Cupid meets commerce: The 5 love languages of B2B sales

Are you ready to shoot your metaphorical love arrows in the grand bazaar of B2B relationships? If you’re in sales today, you’re not just selling products; you’re acting as a matchmaker! And our trusty wingman in this romantic comedy? Skynamo CRM. It’s like having a dating coach for your sales pipeline. 

For the love of sales – how to rekindle the flame

Posted on February 1, 2024 by - Blog, Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

For the love of sales technology

Ah, sales. The art of persuasion, the thrill of the chase, the sweet sound of “Yes, I’ll take ten!” But let’s be honest, sometimes the fire dims and you find yourself lost in a sea of CRM updates, cold calls, and the dreaded quarterly targets. Fear not, my fellow sales warriors! It’s time to fall head over heels in love with sales all over again. Let’s bring back that spark, shall we?

How to More-ify your B2B sales strategy in 2024

Posted on January 18, 2024 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

How to More-ify your B2B sales strategy

This year, we’re all about more in 2024. The best way to hit your targets is to know what you’re aiming for, right? And, as with every stratco, bosberaad or indaba, most companies carry out this time of the year, we haul out the whiteboard, Bakers biscuits, and Endearmints and whip up some semblance of a sales strategy. 

Work Smarter – Holiday Edition: for the Ever-Busy Entrepreneur

Posted on December 6, 2023 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

how the ever-busy entrepreneur can work smarter this festive season

Let’s face it, taking a holiday often feels like a mythical concept, akin to spotting a unicorn in your backyard. You’re so deep in the trenches of your business that the idea of sipping cocktails on a beach seems like a plot from a 90’s romcom movie. But fear not, with a sprinkle of strategy and a dash of tech (hello, Skynamo!), you can actually take that December getaway without your business falling into anarchy.

Who’s Who in the Sales Zoo: A Guide for Wholesalers, Manufacturers, and Distributors

Posted on November 27, 2023 by - Wholesale distributors and manufacturers

A Sales Guide for Wholesalers, Manufacturers, and Distributors

Sales in the B2B landscape can often feel like wandering through a zoo: each customer has their own unique attributes, environments, and needs. As wholesalers, manufacturers, and distributors, it’s crucial to not just feed these animals but to understand them. But fear not! With Skynamo RADAR, you have the perfect guide to help you not only understand but also profit from this diverse ecosystem.