In the fast-paced world of tech and go-to-market (GTM) roles, B2B sales professionals constantly navigate challenges while striving for growth. Yet, whether you’re closing big deals or managing long-term client relationships, advancing your career sometimes in this space isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. Sure, you have the experience, but the roadblocks you encounter can feel like hurdles on an endless track.
Juggling sales targets, navigating organisational politics, and keeping up with tech tools can sometimes feel like a marathon with no finish line. According to a 2023 report by LinkedIn, 75% of sales professionals believe that evolving their skills is necessary for long-term success. Still, only 40% feel they have the time or resources to do so.
Sounds familiar? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This blog post is here to dive into some of the most common challenges experienced by B2B sales professionals like you—and, more importantly, how to tackle them head-on. So, if you’re ready to discover the keys to breaking through these barriers and scaling new heights in your career, read on!
What's Holding Back Africa's Top Sales Talent?
Time is Not Your Friend
You’re crushing your monthly targets, but that Advanced Sales Certification you started three months ago? It’s still sitting at 23% completion. Sound familiar?
The very success that defines your present can sometimes limit your future potential. High sales expectations and demanding targets leave little room for professional development if your time is not appropriately managed.
The importance of continuous learning can’t be overstated in today’s sales environment. From understanding new sales methodologies to mastering technical tools and platforms, the landscape is ever-evolving. The key lies in finding learning opportunities that fit your busy schedule – during your commute or lunch break.
The One-Size-Fits-None Training Dilemma
Many sales leaders share a frustration: generic training programs that don’t quite fit their team’s unique challenges.
Maybe you’re selling a complex SaaS product in an emerging market, or perhaps your team needs to master enterprise sales in a hybrid environment. Training programs often miss the mark, leaving your team with theoretical knowledge that doesn’t translate to your specific market realities.
This is precisely why we at Revsity take a different approach. We collaborate directly with companies to create tailored GTM training programs that align with their unique products, market positioning, and team dynamics.
Whether your team needs to master technical sales, improve pipeline management, or enhance their enterprise negotiation skills, our personalised corporate training solutions adapt to your specific needs.
The Tech Tools Puzzle
In today’s digital-first sales environment, staying tech-savvy isn’t optional – it’s essential.
Modern sales professionals must master CRM systems, automation tools, collaboration platforms and various technical platforms. While this might seem daunting, remember that most successful sales professionals didn’t start as tech experts – they developed these skills gradually.
Remember when closing deals was all about your pitch deck and negotiation skills? In today’s world, sales professionals are expected to master an expanding toolkit of technical platforms, transforming the role from pure selling to requiring significant technical proficiency. It’s like being asked to code in Python when all you wanted to do was sell!
High Sales Expectations and Unmanageable Targets
We’ve all been there—chasing unattainable sales targets while trying to maintain sanity. The pressure to deliver results can be overwhelming, and when targets feel out of reach, you quickly lose motivation. For many sales professionals, this relentless drive to exceed expectations can lead to burnout, ultimately hindering long-term career growth.
One way to manage this is by setting personal goals that align with your career aspirations. Instead of being driven solely by your company’s KPIs, focus on improving specific areas of your sales process.
Also, ensure you’re in the right place—where you’re not just a number but a valued contributor. If you’re looking for new opportunities where your efforts are appreciated and growth is part of the company’s DNA, Revsity’s job placement services are here to help.
The Dilemma of Leaving Work Benefits Behind
One of the most complex decisions a sales professional can make is leaving a stable job—especially when it comes with perks like health insurance, employee stock option, pension plans, or a company car. The fear of losing these benefits often keeps people stuck in roles that no longer challenge or excite them.
While benefits are essential, they shouldn’t be the sole reason you stay in a role that no longer aligns with your career goals. It’s worth evaluating the long-term growth potential of a new opportunity versus the short-term comforts of your current job.
Moving Forward: Your Action Plan
The path to career growth isn’t a straight line – it’s more like navigating Lagos during rush hour. But, of course, Revsity is here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to take control of your career growth? Here’s what you can do right now:
- Join our GTM Slack community (it’s free!) to connect with professionals who have faced similar challenges and found ways to overcome them.
- Check out our flexible training programs designed for busy professionals.
Don’t let another quarter pass by wondering “what if.” Your next level of success is just one decision away.
Remember, in the world of B2B sales, standing still is moving backwards.
Take charge of your career growth today.
