Would we miss them?

What would happen if all companies got rid of their sales force. Admittedly we are talking about the prospect of thousands of jobs disappearing, but more importantly would the customers miss them?

By 'Mal Barnard' on Sep 26, 2009

What would happen if all companies got rid of their sales force. Admittedly we are talking about the prospect of thousands of jobs disappearing, but more importantly would the customers miss them? And if all companies took the same action could it create value for shareholders and companies alike?


 


In a nutshell I guess I am asking the question do sales reps really add value or do we need them like nuclear weapons primarily because others have them too. If they are more for defense than value creation then perhaps it is time to reverse the arms race..


 


Could we easily replicate the value sales reps deliver through other sources, Perhaps the growth in digital media offers a suitable alternative to reps. And customers' need for interactivity and prompt responses can be via telephone, internet or a combination. What do you think? Will it make a big difference if we all got rid of our reps, then think about the impact on cost and the perception of the industry?