Why a sales competition?

Competitions allow for higher education students to increase their business skills. The development of ethical sales skills improves students’ abilities to listen to the customer (or client) needs.

In many university businesses schools’ sales is overlooked. However, there is an increase in sales research and recognition that the subject of ‘sales’ needs to increase its professionalism in the modern world.

A company depends on its sales, they are a fundamental need if a business is to survive and grow. There is a shortage of sales graduates, those with critical thinking combined with the relevant skillset.

Sales competitions address this need. They introduce the sales processes and ethical nature of professional selling skills to universities. Competitions allow individuals to learn valuable life-long skills, such as ethics, listening, building trust and fulfilling client needs. You can’t learn to swim by reading a book.

It is a win-win for students and businesses. As it raises professional practices it also creates a win for the client/customer.

Research suggests students who are sales graduates are more employable. Sales practices contain a set of transferable skills and many of the attributes learned can be used effectively in developing managers and leaders.

According to the acknowledged sales professional and author, Prof Neil Rackham, companies are increasing recruiting leaders with a sales background. Selling skills are about ethical persuasion and fulfilling customer requirements it is not about ‘forcing’ people to take things that are not suitable. It is about helping trust and building relationships.

University Sales competitions have been around in the USA for over a decade, enhancing both the local and international outlook for the country. The standard of competition is very high. Europe has introduced sales competitions and it is hoped that students from South East Asia will shortly be of the standard to compete internationally.

If you are a student or university in South East Asia interested in being involved please contact us