Sales job; trouble with targets.

[Userxxxxx]

Hi

I've joined as could really use some guidance on what to do.

Couple of weeks ago I started with a insurance call centre type company, taking on a sales role with quite a bit of misgiving. (but I was unemployed and the role was at least home working) I was forewarned at interview the targets were high and naively thought maybe I could do the job or could change to customer service in time, but it seems those roles with the company are just as stressful and again actually includes an element of sales targeted as well. As training has gone on I've realised I'm not money/commission hungry like the others in training, with it coming to light on the first few 'live calls' being tackled by a training coach asking if I had worked in sales, who went on to say I was displaying more customer service soft skills.

I've thought about doing sales course online, but, then because the business is regulated/scripted, and you do have to be careful what you say on calls so I'm not sure that would totally help.

I've tried finding out what the process is for failing the heavy sales targets but not got to far, (fwiw; the role is on a 6 month probation) I've read staff reviews that give the impression you go down the disciplinary route.?

Sorry it's just I have never been dismissed from a job before but think it worth continuing in the job until such time (or if I can find alternative employment) so then least I won't be tempted in future to have anything to do with sales / selling and be able to prove I wouldn't be the right fit.

Now I've only been with the company weeks, appreciate I probably will come across as a loser unable to do sales work but I want to place this job on the CV (there are positives - more familar with teams totally, met lovely new people, more confident with the whole setup of computers, worked in an FCA regulated biz) but a bit nervous applying to a building society for customer service when surely that may well have an aspect of sales? (My confidence has dropped in the workplace over the last year, I just don't know how to get it back, appreciate I'm getting older now I'm 40)

Thanks for any sharing of opinions on what to do.

What is the main question you're seeking an answer to?

If it's about what will disciplinary route look like, they will likely put you on a PIP - performance improvement plan

Thanks, helpful to know.

I'm guessing that they won't keep someone on for to long who struggles to sell.

I've tried to ask but just been told you receive coaching and that if you fail QA on a sales call you just lose a proportion of the commission earnt - which is just new to me.
I didn't like to ask further, I don't know whether to think this coming week might be make or break before being released to the remote live call centre. I'll try and search the staff handbook. See if that covers it.

Relax

Don’t write yourself off! The best sales people are just good at listening, building relationships and ensuring they know their product well so they can represent it authentically.

Being too motivated by the money isn’t always great long term….it can make you appear inauthentic to customers, so try not to worry, find your natural style, know your product and just give it a go!

Thank you for your kind words @hamstersarse

I've done telesales/appointment making before but not to a script that has to be read to remain compliant if that makes sense.

I've watched an episode tonight of that old Call Centre programme that was on BBC3 around 8 years ago and that has actually given me some softer pointers on direct questioning and reminded me how you need to be passionate about what you are selling.