It doesn't feel like that long ago that B2B sales strategies were focussed on email, cold calls, and stacks and stacks of business cards for those lenghty conference. Yet technology is swift and with it comes an evolution in new technologies that we believe that every B2B industry and sales person worth their grain of salt should be looking into.

Therefore, we have decided to unpack the top five emerging technologies in B2B sales that may just revolutionize the way we do business. Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting out, this will give you a glimpse into the future of B2B sales.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML):

AI and ML are the changing the face of B2B sales, and in quicker fashion that most of us imagined. From automating routine tasks to improving decision-making, these technologies are nchanging our job descriptions on a daily basis and the good news (in our opino) is unlike some new fads, they are not going anywhere. For example, AI-powered sales assistants can help sales teams by identifying leads, nurturing them, and even closing deals. By automating repetitive tasks, B2B sales teams can focus on what they do best – selling!

2. Blockchain:

Unless you've been living under a rock, you would of heard about blockchain technology in the last few years, and guess what? it's not just for cryptocurrencies anymore. With its ability to provide secure and tamper-proof digital records, it’s quickly emerging as a go-to technology for B2B sales teams globally. By using blockchain, businesses can improve their supply chain transparency and security, whilst giving their customers peace of mind when it comes to secure and transparent purchases.

3. Internet of Things (IoT):

IoT is effectivley a network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items which is embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and connectivity which enables these things to connect and exchange data. In our B2B industry, the IoT devices can be used to gather and analyze data from connected devices, which can then be used to improve efficiency and productivity and provide real-time insights into business operations. So whether you’re selling industrial equipment or smart home systems, IoT is sure to give your sales a boost.a handy way to boost sales in a fast and connected way.

4. Virtual and Augmented Reality:

Now some might say that VR and AR technologies have had their day in the sun, and interest in these techoligiges is tailing off in dramatic fashion. We agree with some of that, but believe that both VR and AR have a strong future in B2B industries and have the ability to creativley change the way customers interact with businesses. Whilst their use in the retail and B2C markets is still somewhat limited, they can be used to create immersive and interactive experiences for B2B clients, helping them to gain a better understanding of the products and services being offered. Additionally, VR and AR can be used to improve the efficiency of internal processes, such as training and product demonstrations, saving time and resources for businesses.

5. B2B Sales Automation:

Sales automation technology like 'Ignite' is making the B2B sales process a lot more streamlined and is also attracting more sales people to B2B careers. Ignites ability to automate outreach and sales process on LinkedIn and email assists sales teams to generate more leads and close more deals, more often. This frees up a considerable amount of time, energy, resources and therefore money which businesses can then use on other areas whilst sales teams become more effecient (and less stressed).

The five technologies we have discussed each play a different role in helping B2B's, yet all have a similar goal in that they aim to improve, simplify or enhance the ways we will do business now and into the future. The B2B organisations that take the important steps and learn to leverag the powers of AI, blockchain, IoT, VR/AR, and sales automation, will undoubtedly improve some part of their sales processes, increase efficiency, and ultimately drive better results. Investing energy into researching and implementing these emerging technologies is a wise decision for businesses looking to take their sales to the next level. Are all of these technologies the right fit for your B2B? Probably not, yet by embracing some or all these technologies, you will certainly have a leg up on your competition which allows you stay ahead of the curve for years to come.