How do I approach building a commission-based sales team?
I am already working with European customers, but I want more. I realize that although my line of work is online and does not require my physical presence, businesses in Europe still prefer the traditional meeting and handshake :) So I am thinking about commission based sales people. What I do can fall into the category of online marketing. Since I work only on retainer basis, commission will be monthly for the first year - so it's lucrative for the sales people I will work with too. But... I have no idea where to find them.
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Jun 29, 2015
I've had a lot of luck with forums. Posting jobs in forums about the specific industry that I work in. Haven't had as much luck on places like odesk or freelancer.com. People on those sites tend to be low-end sales people.
Jul 1, 2015
Well, I've been in social marketing & SEO for half of my life. So the forums I go on are specific to those industries. I'm not sure what industry you're in, so it would be hard to recommend anything specifically. But, there are many out there. Use Google. :)
Jun 30, 2015
I agree with Rory. I look for individuals in similar markets. I've recieved interest from people in different countries through video marketing and solo ads.
If you have any further questions I'd be glad to help.
Jun 30, 2015
A couple of things to consider...1.) If you are going to be in the commission only segment a starting point may be with a broker type relationship or manufacturer rep set-up. What similiar products is someone already selling that you may be able to compliment or piggyback on and where are these people already.
2.) If the customer stays a customer you should continue to pay the salesperson. They may be able to be your field based customer service rep too if they have a relationship with the customer and are still getting a residual income.
3.) Start in an easy market and test the sales model. Start with say the UK/Ireland etc where there is no language barrier and similiar business climates exist.
There's more and if you already considered points like this then your well on your way.
Jul 1, 2015
Hi David, I am not selling a product but rather a service. I have considered the commission part and you are right. It makes sense to keep paying it. I am also looking into strategic partnerships where for example 3rd party professionals my clients need (example: web developers, graphic designers etc.) can refer clients to me and vice versa.
Jul 1, 2015
Thanks! Haven't really thought of that! I assumed it is only for the USA. I'll check it out :)
Jul 6, 2015
I would recommend looking on LinkedIn or posting the job there. It is a little pricey, but not bad if you find someone good in 30 days or less. Also, I am a Sandler Training sales trainer, and I know we have some great offices in the UK and around Europe. You might go to Sandler.com and look for a local sales trainer in the market you are target and see if they know anyone good who is open to a change.
Also, going straight commission can be tough. You might start with someone who can work part time and just make extra cash on the side. Usually these are related fields like IT or web designer that don't do online marketing themselves and would be willing to outsource or refer to you.
Good luck!
Thank you Rory, that makes sense. Any specific forums you'd recommend?