Salespeople often share a common drive to learn more, grow further, and sell better. Without actionable steps to take toward these goals, however, many sales professionals find themselves wishing for improvement rather than achieving it. 

If you’re looking for ways to improve your sales skills in the coming year, put some of these tips to the test. 

Set Measurable Goals and Deadlines 

One problem with goals like “I want to be a better salesperson” is that they’re impossible to measure. This problem can be solved, however, by diving more deeply into what it means to be “better,” and attaching measurements you can track. 

Think about what a “better” salesperson looks like to you. For instance, do you want to complete more cold calls each day? Set up more meetings with prospective customers? Close more deals? Meet a particular dollar amount for sales? 

By attaching numbers to your goals, you enable yourself to break them down into achievable steps and track your progress. You can thus see yourself moving closer to success.  

Look Into Certifications 

Certifications for pharmaceutical and medical device sales reps can help boost your career and expand your knowledge base. Both effects can improve your effectiveness in sales, and may also improve your enjoyment of your job as well.  

If you already have certain key credentials in your field, look for advanced courses or credentials you can take. Or direct your continuing education down a specific path, based on the goals you’ve set for yourself. 

Leverage Your Annual Performance Review 

Many salespeople dread their annual performance review, not realizing that it provides a powerful opportunity to set goals and gain support for those goals. 

Go into your performance review with specific goals in mind. Use the time to talk to your supervisor about these goals, receive feedback, and work together on a plan to implement them. Be open to suggestions from your supervisor, who may have had the same goals and challenges when they were in your shoes.  

At SMR Group, our recruiters specialize in connecting sales and marketing professionals to some of the best jobs and employers in the pharmaceutical, medical device and biotech industries. If you’re looking for a place to sharpen your sales skills and reach new heights of success, contact us today.