AI isn't just for techies—it's transforming how sales teams operate today! Like electricity or the internet, AI is becoming a general-purpose technology. According the IMF, over 40% of global jobs are exposed to AI, making it a must-have tool for sales teams to stay competitive. We’re in the midst of an automation revolution, where mundane tasks like data management and customer follow-ups are being handled by AI, freeing sales professionals to focus on what truly matters: building relationships and closing deals.
The New Normal
We’ve entered the era of “Everyday AI,” where AI isn’t just an add-on but an integral part of how companies function. The reality is stark: AI won’t take your job, but those who leverage AI will outperform those who don’t. Picture a crossroads where you can choose how much disruption you’re willing to endure. By proactively integrating AI, companies can navigate this transformation smoothly, positioning themselves for long-term success in an AI-driven world.
The real power of AI lies in its ability to take over low-value, time-consuming tasks, allowing sales professionals to channel their energy into high-impact, creative work. Imagine the productivity gains when AI handles the repetitive tasks that currently eat up so much of your time. This isn’t just a shift in tools—it’s a shift in how we work.
We’ve entered the era of “Everyday AI,” where AI isn’t just an add-on but an integral part of how companies function.
Justin Taines, Senior Consultant BearingPoint
From Hype to Reality
For many industries, AI has moved past the initial hype and started delivering tangible, measurable results. In sales, this shift is particularly evident as sales teams are no longer just experimenting with AI; they’re seeing real-world impacts on lead generation, customer relationship management, and predictive analytics.
It’s important to approach AI not as a magic wand, but as another tool in your toolbox. The true value of AI comes when it’s used to complement and enhance human capabilities, not replace them. We often encourage our clients to think of AI as a way to achieve marginal gains that accumulate over time. It’s these incremental improvements that lead to significant advancements in efficiency and effectiveness.
One common concern is whether businesses need to invest in new software to benefit from AI. The good news is, many of the tools you’re already using likely have AI capabilities built in. Major software providers, such as Freshworks and Salesforce, have integrated AI directly into their platforms. These AI features can turn your CRM into a proactive assistant—drafting emails, scoring leads, and even suggesting the next best actions. The possibilities are vast, and the tools are more accessible than ever before.
The Benefits Far Outweigh the Fears
There’s always fear when it comes to the unknown, and AI is no exception. We took a hard look at the sales journey and found that most teams spend nearly two-thirds of their time on pre- and post-sales activities rather than actual selling. By integrating AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, we immediately saw an 8% reduction in time spent on these non-selling activities. That may not sound like much, but when those minutes add up across a sales team, the impact is significant. By embracing AI, you’ll find a powerful ally that helps you work smarter, not harder.
While it’s tempting to focus on specific use cases or software, the real impact of AI lies in how well it’s integrated into an organization’s overall strategy. At BearingPoint, we work with clients to develop custom AI solutions that align with their business goals. The possibilities are endless—whether it’s AI-powered analytics offering insights into global market trends or AI-driven chatbots providing 24/7 customer support.
Preparing for the Future of AI in Sales
The future of AI in sales is bright, and full of possibilities that will enhance efficiency, personalization, and customer satisfaction. From advanced data analytics and conversational AI to dynamic pricing tools and real-time translation, AI is set to revolutionize how sales teams operate on a global scale.
But this future won’t arrive overnight. The role of the sales professional will evolve gradually, with AI providing real-time support and, eventually, handling entire processes.
The key is to start preparing now. Invest in AI education, training, and tools for your teams. Partner with AI experts, like us at BearingPoint, who can provide the guidance needed to navigate this complex landscape. By taking these steps, your business won’t just keep pace with the competition – you’ll lead the charge in transforming sales with AI.