This workshop will help you create, develop and close business opportunities using a consultative approach and a value-based (not price-led) proposition. Value-based selling means working the way your customer wants to buy, not how you want to sell. It also means: In a transactional sale the customer knows the answer without help from a salesperson (or cannot see why they should choose you), or is prepared to stay with what they have. Customer decision criteria are price and convenience and customers resent time spent with (new) salespeople, mainly because the salesperson adds little or nothing to what the customer already has and just wastes time. In a consultative or value-based sale, by contrast, the customer doesn't know the answer already. The salesperson must take the role of an advisor, not just a 'product promoter'. Customers demand expertise, advice and customisation during the sales process. Often customers insist on multiple meetings with salespeople and others to develop advantages that you can bring and reduce the perceived risk of changing. In this way the salesperson often adds more value than the product or service alone. This very practical workshop will help you use proven strategies and tactics to build, manage and successfully close sustainable business opportunities using a consultative approach and a value-based (not price-led) proposition. This includes: Increased impact of your new sales conversations, presentations and proposals - leading to faster decisions and increased conversion Greater confidence, consistency and professionalism throughout the business development process Enhanced sales questioning skills and techniques, leading to better, faster and more accurate development of customer needs, problems, value and expectations Improve your people, communication, influence and persuasion skills when approaching, consulting or presenting your services and solutions How to build value at all points in the customer's buying process through your knowledge, skills and structured approach Proven ways to gain additional business and referrals from existing customers and contacts, through direct approach and lead generation Being better able differentiate your firm, your solutions, track-record and expertise clearly and accurately with tailored value statements for each stage and for each opportunity Overcome and avoid price-based objections, buying criteria and negotiation 1 Introduction and key principles of value-based selling Introduction and review of pre-course questionnaires - KPIs, personal learning objectives and key principles The main principles of value-based selling and how they benefit you and the customer How value-based selling differs from 'transactional' or 'price-based' selling The stages of the customer's buying cycle - how to identify and work through strategies for each stage The concept of structured and set-piece selling and proposing Presentation by participants: Personal sales improvement goals 2 Value-based selling strategies and skills What is value? How can one move away from a price-led agenda? How to survive and resist price pressure - six techniques A review of key competencies and skills needed for a value-based approach Strategies, case studies and examples with discussion and review Defining your initial value proposition and comparative advantage How best to established the right level of trust, rapport and credibility Planning and practice session: Strategy - mapping a value-based sales process. 3 Connecting skills Research before the meeting and the first few minutes - ways to gain instant rapport and setting the foundation for a successful outcome in a first sales call How to structure an effective first time sales call or meeting - the subtle differences that are important to master How best to differentiate your solutions and build credibility and enthusiasm early or at the start of the buying process Overcoming initial buying resistance and relaxing the prospect; gaining rapport, opening the meeting: PBC (purpose-benefit-check) and gaining agreement to proceed Planning and practice session: Connecting - first meeting with a new contact 4 Consulting - building, developing and influencing client needs Understanding the power of high-impact and third-level questions to influence people based around specific needs and solutions The importance of body language and other personal communication dynamics when asking questions; empathic listening, run-on questions, drawing out skills, summarising, etc Creating a 'disturb' approach to creating needs and opportunities and positioning your solutions Using proven advanced sales questioning techniques with greater skill: Outcome, SPIN and qualification questions 'Decision-making criteria' - tools to help you develop the relevant criteria with the customer and in doing so progress your sales opportunities more effectively Planning and practice session: Questioning skills 5 Convincing - presentation and persuading skills practice Substance and style - selecting the right tone and content to engage and enthuse your prospect Compelling benefits and reducing perceived risk - key messages to deliver Helping the customer choose your proposition - by being convincing, compelling and credible when you present Professional and effective presentation skills - with personal coaching and practice sessions The keys of influence and persuasion and the keys to convincing a new customer to choose you for the first time Planning and practice session: Role-play in presenting your solution 6 Commitment Knowing when and how to close for commitment to the next stage in your sales process, plus ways to ask for commitment professionally and effectively How to isolate, prioritise and answer objections and concerns more openly and accurately, using a consultative not a confrontational approach Deal more effectively and profitably with price objections and reduce buyer's remorse (which can lead to an 'I want to think about it' reaction and cause delay and inertia) Key negotiation skills around the closing process - getting to 'yes' Planning and practice session: Role-play in closing and negotiation skills 7 Assessed role-play - Final practice session Live role-plays There is an option for external participants to be brought in to the live training workshop to take-part in the final assessed role-play or assist with other sessions run during the course. Performance assessment - 'Dragon's Pitch' The final afternoon of the course is an assessed role-play using a prepared scenario and external 'CEO'. The assessment criteria will be agreed prior to the workshop. 8 Workshop summary and close Personal action plan and learning summary
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with virtual and in-person options) Target Audience: Professionals working remotely, hybrid teams, managers, HR leaders, and individuals looking to improve their work-life integration in today’s fast-paced, digital-first work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the concept of work-life integration versus work-life balance. Recognise the challenges and benefits of working remotely or in hybrid settings. Learn practical strategies for managing boundaries, time, and energy. Cultivate habits that support both productivity and personal well-being. Apply tools to foster sustainable work-life integration in their teams and organisations. Course Outline Module 1: Rethinking Work-Life Integration The difference between work-life balance and work-life integration The challenges of work-life boundaries in a remote-first world The impact of technology on personal and professional lives Why flexibility matters: remote work as a tool for integration, not separation Module 2: Understanding Your Energy and Time Identifying personal energy patterns throughout the day Time audit: understanding how you currently allocate time and energy The role of breaks, boundaries, and rituals in energy management Tools for task prioritisation: Pomodoro, time blocking, and task batching Module 3: Managing Boundaries in a Digital World Setting and communicating clear boundaries for work and personal time Managing "always-on" culture in a remote environment Tools for setting expectations with colleagues and managers Creating a dedicated workspace and establishing personal rituals Saying no effectively: how to manage overcommitment and avoid burnout Module 4: Navigating Flexibility and Productivity The benefits and challenges of flexible working hours Time management strategies for remote and hybrid work settings Overcoming distractions: creating a productive work environment at home Staying focused and motivated without the physical office Managing work interruptions and creating space for personal time Module 5: Well-Being in Remote and Hybrid Work Importance of self-care and mental health in work-life integration Strategies for staying physically active, social, and mentally engaged remotely Building habits for sleep, mindfulness, and recovery Setting clear personal and professional goals to stay aligned with values Techniques for managing stress and avoiding burnout in a remote environment Module 6: Building a Remote-First Culture Leading with empathy: supporting remote teams’ well-being Fostering communication, trust, and accountability in hybrid teams Encouraging regular check-ins, feedback loops, and work-life check-ups Building a culture of flexibility and autonomy while maintaining performance Best practices for team collaboration and social connection in remote environments Module 7: Action Planning for Sustainable Integration Developing a personalised work-life integration plan Identifying areas of improvement: time, energy, boundaries, and well-being Setting achievable goals for short-term and long-term work-life integration Peer sharing: tips and strategies that have worked for you Building accountability structures: partners, progress tracking, and revisiting goals Delivery Style Highly interactive, with a mix of discussions, reflection exercises, and case studies Practical tools, tips, and templates that participants can apply immediately Group activities to share experiences and learn from peers Guided self-reflection and action planning for immediate impact Course Materials Provided Work-Life Integration Guide Time Audit Worksheet and Energy Mapping Tools Setting Boundaries Framework and Template Remote Work Well-Being Checklist Personal Action Plan for Sustainable Integration Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books on work-life integration Optional Add-ons Post-course coaching or check-in sessions Customised team workshop focused on hybrid work challenges Leadership session on managing remote-first teams effectively Follow-up webinars on remote collaboration and staying connected
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with virtual and in-person options) Target Audience: Professionals working remotely, hybrid teams, managers, HR leaders, and individuals looking to improve their work-life integration in today’s fast-paced, digital-first work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the concept of work-life integration versus work-life balance. Recognise the challenges and benefits of working remotely or in hybrid settings. Learn practical strategies for managing boundaries, time, and energy. Cultivate habits that support both productivity and personal well-being. Apply tools to foster sustainable work-life integration in their teams and organisations. Course Outline Module 1: Rethinking Work-Life Integration The difference between work-life balance and work-life integration The challenges of work-life boundaries in a remote-first world The impact of technology on personal and professional lives Why flexibility matters: remote work as a tool for integration, not separation Module 2: Understanding Your Energy and Time Identifying personal energy patterns throughout the day Time audit: understanding how you currently allocate time and energy The role of breaks, boundaries, and rituals in energy management Tools for task prioritisation: Pomodoro, time blocking, and task batching Module 3: Managing Boundaries in a Digital World Setting and communicating clear boundaries for work and personal time Managing "always-on" culture in a remote environment Tools for setting expectations with colleagues and managers Creating a dedicated workspace and establishing personal rituals Saying no effectively: how to manage overcommitment and avoid burnout Module 4: Navigating Flexibility and Productivity The benefits and challenges of flexible working hours Time management strategies for remote and hybrid work settings Overcoming distractions: creating a productive work environment at home Staying focused and motivated without the physical office Managing work interruptions and creating space for personal time Module 5: Well-Being in Remote and Hybrid Work Importance of self-care and mental health in work-life integration Strategies for staying physically active, social, and mentally engaged remotely Building habits for sleep, mindfulness, and recovery Setting clear personal and professional goals to stay aligned with values Techniques for managing stress and avoiding burnout in a remote environment Module 6: Building a Remote-First Culture Leading with empathy: supporting remote teams’ well-being Fostering communication, trust, and accountability in hybrid teams Encouraging regular check-ins, feedback loops, and work-life check-ups Building a culture of flexibility and autonomy while maintaining performance Best practices for team collaboration and social connection in remote environments Module 7: Action Planning for Sustainable Integration Developing a personalised work-life integration plan Identifying areas of improvement: time, energy, boundaries, and well-being Setting achievable goals for short-term and long-term work-life integration Peer sharing: tips and strategies that have worked for you Building accountability structures: partners, progress tracking, and revisiting goals Delivery Style Highly interactive, with a mix of discussions, reflection exercises, and case studies Practical tools, tips, and templates that participants can apply immediately Group activities to share experiences and learn from peers Guided self-reflection and action planning for immediate impact Course Materials Provided Work-Life Integration Guide Time Audit Worksheet and Energy Mapping Tools Setting Boundaries Framework and Template Remote Work Well-Being Checklist Personal Action Plan for Sustainable Integration Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books on work-life integration Optional Add-ons Post-course coaching or check-in sessions Customised team workshop focused on hybrid work challenges Leadership session on managing remote-first teams effectively Follow-up webinars on remote collaboration and staying connected
This confidentially & effective record keeping training course is aimed at assisting staff to understand what is expected of them regarding confidentiality, maintaining accurate up to date records and documents.
This course is designed to provide delegates that need to use abrasive wheels with an in-depth understanding of the requirements of the law, associated regulations and safe working practices when using abrasive wheels. Book via our website @ ESS | Training Courses | Vp ESS (vp-ess.com) or via email at: esstrainingsales@vpplc.com or phone on: 0800 000 346
Bad news - people don't buy your product. Better news - they don't buy anyone else's product either. Best news - they do buy what a product gives them, whether it be removing 'pain' or giving 'pleasure'. So what a challenge it is that every single person buys your product for a slightly different reason! What's the secret to selling in that sort of sales environment? This programme provides a great roadmap. This course will help participants: Build rapport with authenticity Use open questions, listening and summary to properly understand the prospect Use 'impact' questions to 'stack the pain' of remaining with the status quo Convert features into personalised benefits that reflect stated needs Handle objections with calm confidence Identify buying signals Close effectively Convey credible urgency centred on the prospect's - not the salesperson's - interests 1 What makes a customer buy any product? Moving towards 'pleasure' Moving away from 'pain' Robert Cialdini's Psychology of Influence - buying motives Understanding what your product does for customers Why there is never a 'one size fits all' approach What are the real 'unique selling points' and why the salesperson is the real 'USP' At what point does the customer emotionally buy your product? 2 Getting past gatekeepers What gatekeepers' motivations are How to make them your friend rather than your enemy How to make your call harder to block than to put through How to control the gatekeeper with questions, not answers Using Cialdini's 'reciprocity' law to get put through more often Practical exercise in which the trainer poses as gatekeeper 3 Questioning and listening skills How to use open questions to get the customer talking What questions to avoid and why How to 'stack the pain' of the status quo with 'impact questions' Practical 'pain stacking' exercise in pairs What listening is and what it isn't Question funnelling - how to earn deeper disclosure through probing Practical funnelling exercise in pairs The power of summary 4 How to create tailored benefits and not 'dive into solution' What is 'diving into solution'? Examples and analogies Why it is to be avoided Practical exercise in pairs - how it feels to have solutions offered up too early How to avoid 'feature-dumping' What is 'value selling'? How to create tailored benefits How to convert product features into benefits How to deal with the prospect's competitor allegiance 5 Handling objections and testing the water How to overcome the price objection by selling value Common objections the participants encounter and answers that work The objections salespeople carry in their own heads The 'A-C-E' objection-handling model How to uncover objections When - and when not - to trial close 6 Closing skills Why salespeople often close too early How to identify buying signals How to use urgency with skill and effectiveness Four killer closing techniques that work How to avoid buying the product back by careless post-sale talk How to ask for referrals for your product How to 'farm' the account for future opportunities 7 Wrap-up Key learnings from each participant Individual action planning - steps that can and will be implemented in the workplace
Customers are astute and well-practised in researching and seeking information, solutions and added value in the minimum number of clicks online. There's only so much time they're willing to spend carrying on clicking. This mentality isn't just restricted to the world of B2C. In our increasingly hectic world, where information is expected to be available instantly, it applies just as much to B2B. In this workshop, we look at how putting yourself in the shoes of your customer and mapping their decision-making and buying journey is critical to ensuring that you provide what they perceive as fast solutions and added value. You will learn all about the three pillars for creating competitive brand experiences: Customer engagement planning puts you firmly in the shoes of your customer, helping you to build meaningful marketing communications delivered through the right resources at the right time to inspire your customers to engage with you. This programme will help participants to: Understand the evolution of the customer buying journey Map a customer buying journey for your brand or solutions Understand the customer micro-moments and signals indicating interest and buying intent, both online and offline Apply the psychology of branding to build marketing communications with impact Develop sales and marketing content that differentiates your brand(s) from the competition by demonstrating unique value and how you can meet your customer's needs 1 The evolution of the customer journey Understand how the use of mobile has had an impact on the customer buying journey where today's customers can research and compare products and solutions whenever and wherever they like, making the purchase journey even less linear Explore how marketers are adapting to this new customer behaviour and drawing upon various strategies to win the hearts and minds of their audiences 2 The See-Think-Do-Care framework Explore the many different frameworks used to track the customer journey Understand and apply the modern marketing model, where the internet has enabled the customer to hop between multiple touchpoints before making a purchase decision 3 Customer micro-moments and signals in their buying journey Understand the online and offline moments when customers seek information to research and make buying decisions Apply this understanding to build a marketing communication plan to reach customers at all stages of their buying journey 4 The role of branding in the customer journey Explore the psychology of branding Learn how to ensure your branding is relevant to your target customer needs Bring together your brand value and story to achieve brand loyalty 5 The Why-How-What framework Apply a systematic approach to build a successful and compelling brand Understand how starting with 'why' will help build your brand purpose Apply the content marketing matrix to communicate your brand's value Apply the hero-help-hub model to build engaging content marketing Actionable outcomes We will use your brand examples to provide opportunities for practice: You will learn and reflect on best practice examples of customer engagement You will discover your brand value, purpose and the 'sweet spot' to drive engagement with your customers You will create a customer engagement plan that can be implemented immediately within your business You will receive immediate feedback on your customer engagement plan You will have the opportunity to share common issues and solutions with your colleagues in the group
Customer service just isn’t enough. Customer experience is where the secret to success lies. Build a loyal and fruitful customer base by learning how to design frictionless processes and build empathetic and solution-focused services with our bespoke courses, which include: Customer service vs customer experience The changing nature of customers and how to stay ahead Customer needs vs customer expectations How our behaviour affects those around us and how to use the power of influence Communicating with customers positively and effectively Moments that matter Building trust and integrity What to do when things go wrong