Sales Strategies

Selling to Van Dealerships

To be sure, van dealerships are major players in a growth industry -- and that makes them attractive to entrepreneurs who are eager to get in on the action. If you're tired of underdelivering on your sales numbers, maybe it's time to start selling to van dealerships.

No one said selling would be easy. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that new customer acquisitions in this industry is a lofty ambition that demands diligence and respect.

Your approach will vary according to your situation and your company's unique sales objectives. But overall, there are several things you will need to consider when devising a system for selling to van dealerships.

CRM Software

CRM (Customer Relationship Management) technology is standard fare for most B2B enterprises.

When used properly, CRM can enhance your company's interactions with customers and prospects. If you don't currently use CRM, there's no better time than the present to get started. Companies that already use a CRM solution need to analyze their processes to make sure it is being used to its full potential.

In the B2B van dealership industry, the inefficient use of CRM can put your business at a competitive disadvantage.

Role of Owners & Managers

Owners and managers should expect to be active participants in selling to van dealerships. Front line visibility is essential for large accounts, but your sales team can benefit from occasional field interactions with the owner or sales manager.

By periodically accompanying your reps in the field, you can build relationships with the people you count on to close sales.

Reaching Prospective Customers

Prospecting transforms contacts into qualified leads.

Networking can fine tunes prospecting performance and closing rates. However, it's important to make sure your sales force isn't so focused on conversation that they miss the point of prospecting, i.e. the identification of likely buyers, key decision makers and high value industry contacts. In other words, the type of people you meet is just as important as the number of people you meet when prospecting for van dealerships.

Lead lists are useful because they narrow the field for your team. Third-party lists from reputable vendors (e.g. Experian Business Services) arm your sales force with good leads, making it easier for your company to balance the quantity and quality demands that are prerequisites for effective prospecting.

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