How to Use Positioning in Sales Qualification and Discovery
Sep 14, 2023
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In this podcast, April Dunford discusses the different forms of qualification and BANT criteria in sales. She emphasizes the importance of discovery in the first sales call and how it helps buyers and sellers learn more about each other. April also shares her unique sales pitch structure and gives examples, including one from LevelJump. Don't miss the opportunity to pre-order her book, Sales Pitch, on Amazon.
Qualification helps determine if a lead is a good fit, while discovery is a collaborative step where buyers and sellers learn more about each other.
Integration of discovery into the sales pitch frames the discussion, educates buyers, and positions the product as the ideal solution.
Deep dives
Qualification and Discovery in Sales
Qualification and discovery are two key concepts in sales. Qualification is the process of determining if a lead is a good fit for our product or service. This can be done through various means, such as marketing activities, product interactions, or direct sales contact. Qualification criteria often include factors like budget, authority, need, and timeframe. By qualifying leads, we ensure that we are investing our valuable sales resources in potential customers who are likely to make a purchase. On the other hand, discovery is a collaborative step where buyers and sellers learn more about each other. Through discovery, we gather more information about the buyer's situation, their specific challenges, and their understanding of different solutions. At the same time, we have the opportunity to share our perspective, educate the buyer, and present our point of view on the market. Discovery is a crucial part of a sales pitch and should be integrated into the pitch itself to create a more effective and engaging conversation.
Integration of Discovery in the Sales Pitch
Discovery should be seamlessly integrated into the sales pitch. By starting with insights into the market and highlighting our unique perspective, we can frame the discussion in a way that resonates with the buyer. Exploring alternative approaches and discussing their pros and cons allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the buyer's current situation, their challenges, and their knowledge of available solutions. This collaborative discovery phase enables us to educate the buyer on their options while positioning our product or service as the ideal solution. A well-executed discovery sets the stage for a successful sales pitch and increases the likelihood of closing the deal.
The Relationship Between Positioning, Qualification, and Discovery
Positioning plays a crucial role in the process of qualification and discovery. A clear and strategic positioning helps us identify the characteristics of our best fit customers and define our unique value proposition. It guides our qualification criteria and ensures that we invest our resources wisely. Additionally, positioning informs the insights and perspective we bring to the discovery phase, allowing us to align with the buyer's needs and present our solution effectively. Without a strong positioning foundation, successful qualification and discovery become challenging, hindering the overall sales process.