Statistics show that 50% of companies operating in North America use contract sales forces in some way. As companies adopt a hybrid sales format, the divide between the two sales formats, inside and outside, is slowly decreasing. This is known as co-sourcing, and it allows your company to reap the benefits of both inside and outside sales. Here are some common myths about co-sourcing. Myth 1. Co-sourcing sacrifices quality. Just because co-sourcing uses outside sales companies, it doesn’t mean that it’s not a professional and reliable business model. If you find the right outsourced sales company, you can cut down on labor costs while consistently gaining the same, if not better, results. Myth 2. Companies that co-source will lose control of their business. Again, this is a huge myth. The right outside sales company will work diligently to understand how your business works and do its absolute best to meet every one of your needs. They’ll be readily available to answer any questions you have so that you can always keep operations consistent and stay on the same page. If you have doubts about the amount of control you may lose upon co-sourcing, discuss your concerns with an outside sales company. Myth 3. Co-sourcing is too expensive. Just like any business model, co-sourcing can have many financial benefits when implemented correctly. It just takes time, knowledge, and a thorough understanding of your business’s current and future financial needs and interests. Beanteam.com says, “When viewed solely in the context of fees paid to a third-party provider, co-sourcing may seem like a more expensive option. But when value and cost efficiencies gained through a co-sourcing relationship are incorporated, co-sourcing can provide a significant return on investment.” Myth 4. Co-sourcing is a fad that will fade with time. This myth was probably made up by somebody who passed up the chance to co-source and has regretted it ever since. The truth is, although co-sourcing is a relatively new business model, it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, and it looks like it’s here to stay. That’s because co-sourcing allows your business to get the benefits of both inside and outside sales models. Conclusion Ultimately, understanding co-sourcing is the first step to using it in your business. For more information about outsourced sales and marketing firms, contact Sales Focus Inc.
