Ingram Micro released updates to its Cloud Marketplace to help its partners working with the Microsoft Azure platform. Ingram added billing configurations and a simpler way to manage scheduling for partners and customers, as well as a way to automate subscriptions.

SRS Distribution has acquired Kentucky-based Marsh Building Products, led by President Patrick McNickle, who will continue his role at the building material distribution firm. "The company adds considerable complementary product volume to our current footprint in the Midwest, which will enhance our ability to provide a one-stop-shop experience to both new and existing customers throughout the region," said Dan Tinker, president and CEO of SRS.

David Carson, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Daimler Trucks North America, said demand for semi trucks in the US has reached "unprecedented" levels. Daimler holds approximately 40% of US market share for semi trucks, with Volvo, Paccar and Traton accounting for the balance.

Sending more emails to current or potential clients in an effort to break through the noise of too many emails is a peculiar approach, as recipients frequently say they just get too many, sales consultant David Brock writes. "But we don't pause to think about this, we don't pause to consider, 'Why isn't this working? Why aren't people responding? What might we do differently?'" Brock writes.

Sales leaders can help their team close more deals by coaching them to end conversations more effectively, sales consultant Colleen Francis says. Weak conversation enders, such as "I'll circle back," or "Let me know when you're ready," don't spur sales, but asking, "Where shall we go from here?" or "What would the next steps be?" are the kinds of questions that lead to action, Francis says.

Handle difficult conversations by seeking to understand the other person's point of view, taking responsibility for your part in any disagreement, avoiding generalizations and seeking ways both of you can walk away feeling heard, writes Mike Robbins. "While these conversations aren't usually all that fun or enjoyable, they are necessary and essential to your ability to build trust, navigate the complexity of work and life, and create the kind of relationships, families, and teams you truly want," Robbins writes.

Your team can get more done and produce more creative solutions and innovative ideas if they have time to daydream and take breaks from work that requires them to be hyper-focused, says Chris Griffiths, founder software company OpenGenius. "Being productive is not doing things in less time; it's doing the right things in more creative ways to be more efficient," Griffiths says.