Two words will define companies in 2020 and beyond: “essential business.” Many businesses, including those in sales and marketing, are considered essential or critical, meaning they typically don’t close in the event of a disaster or other emergency.

Training sales and marketing teams in 2020 will require forethought, relevancy, and engagement. Here are the top trends we’re seeing in sales training this year.

Remote Work

The ability to work remotely is becoming an absolute necessity for many businesses in 2020, and the number of companies needing to partially or fully switch to telecommuting is growing. Marketing and sales teams are learning how to communicate effectively while working from home, utilizing new technology and programs that allow for real-time solutions.

You’ll see sales training resources lean towards covering materials for telecommuters and remote workers as companies look for ways to help their employees be equally as effective -- or more so -- in a work-from-home environment.

Mobile Accessibility

Mobile accessibility goes hand-in-hand with remote work, and more companies are looking for ways to engage employees with training programs that utilize mobile technology. Training apps that can be downloaded directly to Android or iOS smartphones will take center stage, along with mobile versions of web conference applications like Skype and Google Hangouts.

Look for training resources that help your sales and marketing staff to connect with key members of your team quickly via smartphone. Choose programs that allow training to be done via mobile devices, such as dedicated applications or online materials that can be accessed via smartphone, like recorded webinars or support forums.  

Gamification

Millennials and Generation Z comprise a large percentage of today’s workforce. They’ve grown up with constantly changing technology, so it feels very comfortable for them. More specifically, this generation of workers are familiar with video games.

They are able to learn and retain more information using tools that engage users and require interaction similar to games. This is known as gamification, or the application of elements typical of a game, like scoring points or leveling up.

In 2020, more sales training resources will be gamified, helping to engage employees in training using new and exciting tactics.

On-Demand Sales Training Videos

Sales training videos have long been used as a way to teach employees the ins and outs of successful marketing. With telecommuting becoming the norm in 2020, being able to access sales training on-demand is going to become crucial. Businesses will need real-time training resources that can be scheduled for when the team is available or that are accessible individually as time allows.

Soft Skills Training

Soft skills are one of the most important -- and difficult to find -- skill sets that sales and marketing professionals can have. Soft skills are individual attributes that allow people to communicate with others effectively and harmoniously, including people skills, social and emotional intelligence, and certain personality traits.

A strong soft skill set is critical for marketing and sales professionals, however, it must be developed and nurtured like any other skill. This year, you’ll see more training resources devoted to the growth of soft skills individually and within teams.

The Benefits of Investing in Sales and Marketing Training in 2020

With the rapid and uncertain market changes seen in early 2020 that are likely to continue throughout the year, investing in sales and marketing training may seem like a luxury versus a necessity. However, even in cases of limited budgets, the benefits of sales training far outweigh the costs.

Your employees should feel knowledgeable and equipped in their role and secure within your company. You have sales goals to meet, and it’s critical that your staff be adequately able to work efficiently to meet those goals. Quality training in sales enablement and marketing can also help bridge internal skill gaps, ensuring that each of your team members are as effective as possible.  

Get Sales Enablement and Marketing Training, On-Demand at Business Watch Network

Keep up with the latest industry news and trends with sales and marketing training 24/7/365 with Business Watch Network’s on-demand, e-learning platform. Hear from sales industry leaders in engaging and actionable webinars. Register now.