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Industry leaders support move to raise sales skills
SOME of the UK’s top sales executives will share their experiences at the North East’s first major sales skills conference. The event, launched by The Journal in association with Newcastle consultancy Weightman Associates, was organised amid growing concern at the lack of sales expertise in the region. Founder of the Gosforth consultancy Tony Weightman said: “There is a dearth of sales people in the region and there is a real need for good sales training. “When companies need sales training in this region they are going to Leeds and London. We have to try and improve the skills of our sales force. If we can do that, then we shall create jobs, improve the economy and attract more people and more business to this region.”
As well as training professionals Richard Denny, billed as the UK’s leading sales guru, and master practitioner Matt Hudson, the North East Sales Conference will bring together a host of other speakers from internationally and regionally successful sales-focused companies such as the region’s biggest law firm Dickinson Dees and fast-growing Newcastle Building Society. Mr Weightman said: “We wanted to bring experts at the top of the sales business to the region, people who would normally cost a fortune to see, as well as the best of local talent. “This conference will be the first of a series of annual events which I hope will make a real difference to the level of skills in the region. If people can come and take away a few good new ideas which will help to re-energise their businesses, then we will feel it has been a success.”
The event is aimed at all professionals with a link to the sales environment, ranging from sales teams and managers to trainers. It is hoped to be suitable for all business sectors and all employees, whatever their sales experience. Stimulating workshops will be led by leading people in their chosen sales field. They will offer practical advice and strategies on improving sales performance.
The conference will also give delegates the chance to meet the speakers and ask questions. Delegates can tailor the conference to suit their needs by choosing from up to three sessions that will run simultaneously throughout the day . The sessions focus on three main areas – general sales techniques, managing a sales team and tele sales maximisation.
The event takes place at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead on Thursday, November 13. The price per person is £175 plus VAT to include full-day conference, morning coffee and pastries, three-course lunch and afternoon refreshments.
For more information or to book a place, telephone event manager Julie Moorhouse on (0191) 201-6119 or email julie.moorhouse@ncjmedia.co.uk
There is a dearth of sales people in the region and there is a real need for good sales training
