How distributors can find the best online channel partner | Henri Coisne, founder of Sonepar, dies at age 99 | Hy-Vee announces executive leadership changes
Distributors looking for a channel partner for online sales should follow several steps, including examining whether the partner's end customer is compatible and conducting a pro forma to predict profitability, writes consultant Scott Benfield. Large distributors should also create a position dedicated to channel management to "avoid unpleasant, unnecessary and unprofitable ventures when establishing new and profitable online reseller relationships," Benfield writes.
Streamline team collaboration and reduce costs In the contact center, it's in the collaboration layer where work gets done. Join experts from Slack, NeuraFlash and Salesforce as they explore features that help your retail service teams provide connected personalized service at every touchpoint. Register here.
Supply chain, logistics and procurement executives are making predictions for the new year, with Danone's Jean-Yves Krummenacher expecting "continued volatility on foreign exchange, tariffs, level of stocks and upstream operating rates" that will drive competitive ocean freight costs. Meanwhile, FourKites' Glenn Koepke expects on-time performance to "become a focal point" within logistics, while Proxima's Spencer Shute says, "The biggest pressures facing logistics companies in 2023 will be caused by recession, inflation, labor shortages and fuel prices."
The current iteration of artificial intelligence for the supply chain process can't self-adapt to fast-changing global factors, so decisions still require human expertise, causaLens supply chain manager Jerry Stephens writes. Stephens explains how newer technology will become both predictive and prescriptive.
Distribution salespeople should use customer relationship management platforms to access call history, quotes, sales orders and other critical information when planning sales calls, writes Kurt Nelson of CRM platform Repfabric. "The automatic accountability that comes with a CRM creates discipline and the increased effectiveness brings greater increases in sales and commissions," Nelson writes.
Business-to-business buyers are more likely to engage with interactive content, writes Ceros' Alex Kelly, who advises marketers on how to effectively collaborate with designers and creative teams. "Designers are strategic thinkers who understand how important visual design is to communicate a story effectively. ... Lean on them early and often, because good design leads to content that not only engages but also elicits an emotional response," Kelly advises.
Top leaders know how to give -- and receive -- compliments instead of seeking to deflect or minimize them, write leadership specialists Bob Vanourek and Gregg Vanourek. "If someone offers you a compliment, look them straight in the eyes, smile, and simply say, 'Thank you,' " they write.
Take control of your own professional growth by prioritizing development opportunities and asking for feedback and support, Hannah Sincavage writes. Taking ownership of the things you can control, such as your attitude, self-image, productivity and how you treat others can also boost your personal growth, Sincavage notes.
