What is sales?

What separates top-performing sales teams from the rest? It's not just luck or natural charm – it's a deep understanding of sales. This deep knowledge of sales and various sales concepts is critical for survival and success.

In this blog, we discuss various types of sales and examples. We also share nuanced consultative approaches that can help you close more deals. 

Buckle up. Whether you're a sales veteran or a rookie on the rise, this guide will sharpen your edge. Your next record-breaking quarter starts here.

Let’s dive in. 

What is sales?

Sales is the process of persuading potential customers to purchase a product or service in exchange for money. Sales involve:

• Finding the right customer
• Identifying customer needs
• Presenting solutions 
• Negotiating terms 
• Closing deals 

Sales is a critical business function that directly generates revenue and drives your company's growth.

Examples of sales in different industries

• Retail: A clothing store salesperson helping a customer find the right size and style of jeans, then completing the transaction at the register.
• Software: An educational software company representative gives a demo of their learning management system to a school district and secures a contract.
• Manufacturing: A heavy machinery sales engineer discussing customization options with a factory owner and finalizing an order for specialized equipment.

Sales vs. Marketing vs. Business Development vs. Customer Support

Sales vs. Marketing

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How many types of sales exist in business?

Inside sales

In inside sales, you sell products or services remotely, typically over the phone, email, or video calls. 

For example, a software company's sales team calling potential clients to demonstrate their project management tool is inside sales.

Outside sales

In outside sales, also known as field sales, you meet customers face-to-face at their location.

For example, a pharmaceutical rep visiting doctors' offices to promote new medications is outside sales. 

B2B sales

In business-to-business (B2B) sales, you sell products or services from one business to another.

For example, an office furniture manufacturer selling desks and chairs to a large corporation for their new headquarters is B2B sales.

B2C sales

In business-to-consumer (B2C) sales, you sell products or services directly to individual consumers.

For example, a fitness app company selling subscriptions to individual users looking to improve their health is B2C sales.

Business development sales

In business development sales, you focus on creating long-term value through partnerships, markets, and customer relationships.

For example, an electric vehicle manufacturer partnering with a charging station company to expand their market reach is business development sales. 

Agency sales

In agency sales, you represent and sell products or services on behalf of another company.

For example, a marketing agency sells advertising services to local businesses on behalf of a popular social media platform.

Consultative sales

In consultative sales, you focus on building relationships and providing tailored solutions based on the customer's specific needs.

For example, a financial advisor working closely with a client to create a personalized investment strategy is consultative sales.

E-commerce sales

In e-commerce sales, you sell products or services online through websites or mobile apps.

For example, an online retailer selling clothing and accessories through their website and mobile app is e-commerce sales.

Direct sales

In direct sales, you sell products directly to consumers, often through personal demonstrations or parties.

For example, a cosmetics company representative hosting a party to demonstrate and sell makeup products is direct sales.

Account-based sales

In account-based sales, you focus on targeting and selling to specific high-value accounts or companies.

For example, a cloud services provider developing a customized proposal for a large healthcare organization that addresses its unique data storage and security needs is account-based sales.

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