Sales Professional - Inside Sales - job 2 of 2

As a Sales Professional - Inside Sales at SCI, your key responsibilities include making at-need cemetery arrangements and selling pre-need arrangements to client families. You will engage in lead generation by dedicating time to prospecting, obtaining referrals, and networking within the community. Additionally, your role involves building strong relationships with families through empathetic communication, addressing their unique needs, and ensuring satisfaction throughout their experience.

To become a Sales Professional - Inside Sales at SCI, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with 1-2 years of college education or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Having previous experience in customer service or sales is preferred. Additionally, you will need a driver’s license with a clean driving record and, if required by state law, an insurance license.

Teamwork is a vital aspect of the Sales Professional - Inside Sales position at SCI. You will work closely with funeral directors, location managers, and other staff to create a seamless service experience for families. This collaboration ensures that all client needs are met efficiently, from initial contact through aftercare, fostering a supportive environment for both families and staff.

Essential skills for success in the Sales Professional - Inside Sales position at SCI include exemplary customer service, active listening, and strong communication abilities. You should also possess empathy and the ability to treat others with respect. Familiarity with computers and various software is necessary, and being adaptable to different work hours is crucial to fulfill the role effectively.

At SCI, the training process for a Sales Professional - Inside Sales includes an internal presentation certification that you must complete within your first 30 days of hire. This training will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve families effectively, addressing their needs and ensuring high standards of service throughout their experience with us.

When building relationships with clients, I focus on deep listening and understanding their unique needs. I believe in honest communication and showing genuine care for their concerns. By actively engaging with clients and following up on their needs after our initial conversations, I establish trust, which is essential for any successful relationship.

For lead generation, I prioritize consistent prospecting each day, utilizing referrals from families I have served and actively networking in the community. I create opportunities to present our services to potential clients and ensure that I'm tracking my activity levels to maintain productivity. This systematic approach keeps my pipeline full and helps me connect with more families who may benefit from our services.

Handling difficult conversations requires empathy and patience. I approach these situations by listening carefully to the family's concerns and validating their feelings. I ensure that I communicate openly and provide solutions that address their anxieties while respecting their emotions. The goal is to guide them through the process with care and understanding.

Collaboration with a funeral director is crucial for delivering seamless service. I would start by maintaining open lines of communication to ensure we are aligned on the needs of the families we serve. Sharing information about family preferences and previous interactions would allow us to provide tailored support, making sure our services are synchronized and high quality.

I believe timely and thoughtful follow-ups are essential in building lasting relationships with families. I would set reminders to check in with families after our services, showing them that we care and are there for them beyond the initial arrangements. These follow-ups can also provide an opportunity to discuss pre-need options for their loved ones, further supporting their needs.

In a previous role, I identified a family in need of our services through community outreach. I engaged with them by listening to their concerns, answering their questions compassionately, and guiding them through their options. By building a trusting relationship and ensuring they felt understood and valued, I successfully turned this prospect into a client who then referred more families to us.

I am motivated by the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives. In the role of a Sales Professional, I find fulfillment in helping families navigate challenging decisions during difficult times. Knowing that I can provide them with peace of mind and support gives me the drive to excel in my role, ensuring they receive the best care possible.

Handling rejection is part of the sales process. I remain positive and see every experience as a learning opportunity. After a rejection, I reflect on what might have gone wrong, asking for feedback when appropriate. This approach helps me refine my skills and resilience, allowing me to approach future prospects with even more confidence.

For effective presentations, I focus on clarity and empathy. I structure my presentations to address the family's specific needs first, using visuals to enhance understanding while maintaining a compassionate tone. Practicing my delivery beforehand ensures I feel confident and prepared, while also allowing me to adapt to the family's responses during the discussion.

I believe SCI distinguishes itself through its commitment to personalized service and empathy. Our team values each family's unique story and approach, ensuring they receive tailored solutions that cater to their needs. This genuine focus on building relationships versus just making sales sets us apart and fosters lasting connections within the community.