Yorkshire manufacturer launches £100k training academy to help attract new sales talent

Manufacturer of windows, doors, home extensions and conservatory products, Conservatory Outlet, has invested over £100k into creating a new sales training academy.

The manufacturer has responded to a shortage of new talent coming into the industry by pioneering a new programme that will look to equip individuals with “all the skills they need to hit the ground running”.

It has taken several months in the planning and supporting part of a wider recruitment strategy to help the firm’s 27-strong network of retail customers attract a “high calibre” of sales professionals from outside the sector.

The company’s leaders anticipate at least 50 salespeople will go through the intensive training programme annually, which will entail a combination of factory sessions at key suppliers to improve product knowledge and ongoing virtual workshops to boost understanding of purchasing trends.

Greg Kane, chief executive of Conservatory Outlet, commented: “Our model is all about adding value to our customers and this is another example where we have been listening to what they need and coming up with a solution that will hopefully make a big difference.

“The network adopts a consultative approach to sales, taking time to listen to our clients and understanding what they are looking to achieve with their home. It goes against the outdated ‘double glazing sales’ model of pushy salespeople, but we believe it is the right approach to deliver the best possible product, the best possible service and the best possible experience.”

He continued: “This is why we have taken the decision to create a central Training Academy that our retail customers can tap into and put new recruits through, so they learn the basics, the knowledge of the products and the culture we try to live by.

“We believe it will take the stress out of recruitment for our members and will help attract new and exciting talent to our industry.”

The content covers the key features and benefits of all Conservatory Outlet products, as well as detailed technical information relevant to their position.

Sessions will be delivered onsite at appropriate factories, so that individuals can see the manufacturing process from start to finish of windows, doors, conservatories, roofs and glass, helping them understand different types of styles to suit differing consumer needs.

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