A flexible sales team: why you need dynamic working options

Talented professionals are extremely sought after and generally aren’t looking to make a move in the market. They are highly prized in the organisations they work for and have good bargaining power in the recruitment process. When the opportunity does arise, it is best to act quickly to secure a top sales candidate. But what is the best way to stand out as a top employer to ensure you are attracting and retaining these top performers? 

Salary is a key motivator for some but not all. Many professionals are now more interested in how they can best plan their working schedule around their personal lives to create a more positive work-life balance. How? Dynamic working. 
There are often misconceptions surrounding dynamic working and what it entails. Dynamic working does not mean working from home three days out of five or leaving after lunch every other day, it simply recognises that not all employees’ lives or most productive working times, fit around the typical nine to five schedule. Dynamic working options allow professionals the flexibility and freedom to take more responsibility for their output and better manage their wellbeing – this will mean different things to different people.  

Dynamic working attracts top talent

When our consultants at Michael Page Sales speak to professionals considering their career options, it is not uncommon for them to be looking for dynamic working in their new role, whether that is being able to work from home or operate on flexible hours. Of course, top sales professionals are also interested in learning what their earning potential would be with OTE (on-target earnings) however, it is becoming increasingly common for sales professionals to seek out those companies that offer dynamic working above most other benefits.
Some of the other benefits that sales professionals are interested in are also based around lifestyle, including holiday allowances and annual events that a company may hold. Continuous learning and professional growth is another key element. 
Modern technology is a key facilitator in flexible and dynamic working schedules. If your business is operating on a cloud-based system, or employees have laptops and remote access via mobile devices, then it’s possible to introduce a programme for your staff. The simple fact is that not all companies do have these capabilities and the opportunity to work flexibly with newer tech is a big drawcard for professionals. 

New ways of working for improved output and productivity 

There are a number of benefits that dynamic working offers to both employees and employers, they will vary according to business and professional needs. Increased job satisfaction leads to higher retention rates and improved work-life balance, and reduced travel times can increase employee output, hence improving the business bottom line. However, in sales, some of the additional benefits are much more immediate. 
A sales environment is heavily focused on hitting targets and some days, everything and anything might go wrong. If you offer dynamic working, your sales professionals are allowed the professional freedom to take the time they need to clear their head and refocus themselves during stressful or bad days. For example, this might mean they leave earlier to go to the gym or to the park to read a book – whatever helps them calm down and take their mind off things – then return later or the next day focused and rejuvenated. It would also allow sales professionals to work remotely while commuting on trips to visit clients. Some people may not even take advantage of the dynamic working benefits you offer but the act of giving them the choice in the first place highlights you trust your team and respect their judgement to effectively work their responsibilities around their personal needs.
Not only does dynamic working allow your staff to work when and how they operate most efficiently but it also makes them feel valued and like they’re working for a business that truly cares for its staff and values their wellbeing. Sales is a fast-paced and often stressful career and employee burnout isn’t uncommon.
If you currently don’t have any kind of dynamic working options for your employees, you may be missing out on some great talent and hindering your current staff from working to their full potential. Those who feel frustrated and trapped in their work are typically less productive and very often opt for a change of job to seek more flexible working options. 
If you would like to discuss how we can help with your recruitment process, please contact your local Michael Page office or submit a job spec now and we’ll call you! 
Kylie Paddle
Managing Consultant
T: +441133889034