Inbound sales is a crucial part of Leadinfo’s business model as it’s a strategy which focuses on building lasting relationships with customers. So forget the pushy car salesmen stereotype. Inbound sales is about listening and showing empathy.
But don’t take our word for it. Instead, read on to see what Lydia, our Account Executive for the Benelux region, has to say about what it’s really like to work in sales. You might be surprised.
I’ve been exposed to the world of business and sales since I was young, as my dad owned his own company. That might be one of the reasons why sales has always fascinated me. From the thrill of closing a deal to the joy of hustling to get a result which both parties are happy with, the whole process is one I enjoy.
So it made sense for me to study Account Management in university. During this time, I had multiple internships and side jobs in sales. I learned a lot about how to contact cold leads, especially via phone. And it’s something that interested me. So after graduating, when a recruiter approached me for a job at Leadinfo as an Insider Sales Representative, I was immediately intrigued. And after talking to Han, I was hooked. This felt like the right place for me.
When people are interested in our tool, they sign-up for a free trial. And during this time, questions, concerns and desired use cases come up. My job is to call these people. To listen and uncover what they really need or struggle with. And show them how Leadinfo can help them overcome their current challenges.
To do this, I get to know people. I chat with the Heads of Marketing, Sales or even Founders to understand the hesitations they face before signing up for Leadinfo. I also want to know the current sales goals or KPIs they are focusing on. Because I know that Leadinfo can further their business. But I need to understand the specifics to truly be able to help.
I’m really proud of how I made this role my own. When I began at Leadinfo as an Insider Sales Representative, the company was just beginning. There was little guidance when it came to our sales process.
Fast forward two years, and I’m proud to be one of our top sales reps and have grown to the position of Account Executive for the Benelux region. I’ve figured out a “method”, you could say, to close deals. And I’m able to teach my techniques to others. And that’s a really cool personal progression to see.
I love the freedom and trust I get here. If I want to try a new sales technique or a different approach, I can do that. If I want to tackle a new project that will further my main responsibilities, I can. And I really enjoy that.
People need to let go of the stereotypical image they have of salespeople. Because the most important skills you need are: communication, listening and empathy. You need to get people talking, have the capability to truly listen to what they are saying, and ask relevant clarifying questions to understand the root of their problem.
Forget being pushy and salesy. You need to be kind, patient and genuine. Sales is a long game, don’t rush getting to know your prospects.
Before joining the Leadinfo team, I took multiple tests to join the Dutch Police Academy. I like the idea of being a detective or undercover agent. It’s a profession that would allow me to also play the long game of helping people. And who knows. Potentially, after Leadinfo achieves world domination, I will still join the Police force.
If you want to ask Lydia more questions, feel free to email her at lydia@leadinfo.com. We’re always on the hunt for new talent. So whether you’re a developer, marketing specialist or sales pro, we want to hear from you! Check out our vacancies and come work at one of the fastest-growing scale-ups in Rotterdam.
