Posts

Cooperation between development and sales - From national to international positioning

Innovation & sales: international success together

/in , /by
2 Min.

Success in innovation is primarily based on two pillars: the progress that the newly developed product brings with it and the sales channel that is used to consistently market the new product. The fact that many valuable innovation approaches in companies fall by the wayside is primarily due to the fact that sales and innovation do not communicate enough with each other.

Promoting synergies between development and sales

In order to pave the way here and to be able to transfer these into best-practice examples, we have set up our working group “Sales campaign in the innovation process“, we have brought together an exclusive group of participants from both the development and sales departments of various companies. Our basic topic:

How do we succeed – from the initial idea to the finished product – in making an innovation process as lean and targeted as possible through mutual communication and cooperation?

As part of a perspective event on October 23, 2024, the focus was primarily on the possibilities of such sales-innovation collaborations, especially from the perspective of globally operating companies. The questions we asked ourselves in this context covered a considerable range:

  • How can we – possibly from here – contribute to maximizing the promotion of innovation processes at other locations, including those abroad?
  • What processes need to be established there?
  • For example, how can the communication and social media channels there be opened up for this?
  • How can further progress be made within the company?

Successful results through joint solutions

The all-round positive: once again, all participants were able to benefit from the answers we came up with to these and other questions!

Curious now?

Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

AI-supported sales training: Autodidactic learning of the future

AI-supported sales training: passing on knowledge and optimizing skills

/in , /by
2 Min.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is now being used in numerous areas to support sales. These include the design and production of sales materials and the use of versatile software tools that support sales staff in their customer relationship management (CRM) or in the area of project and schedule management.

AI in sales training: a new approach

A relatively new area of application for AI is its use in sales training. Here, AI is specifically designed to support sales staff in their core communicative tasks. How such AI-supported training can look in practice was the topic of an online event hosted by 2be_die markenmacher together with BWV Nordbayern-Thüringen on October 23. Chris Sander, Creative Leader at the Akkodis Group, and Max von Retorio were invited as experts. The presentations initially focused on how the content flow between sales and customers can be improved with the help of AI tools such as ChatGPT or Midjourney. These tools expand the possibilities of sales in the creation and management of content by efficiently generating texts and supporting creative processes. For many participants, this was an opportunity to build on existing knowledge and expand it with new approaches.

Retorio and Synthesia: innovative AI training solutions

It became particularly exciting when Max used practical examples to show how programs such as retorio can be used in combination with Synthesia. These tools make it possible to create avatars that analyze your own sales activities. Gestures, facial expressions and voice are scrutinized in order to make targeted improvements. These innovative training methods create real added value for sales staff, allowing them to receive practical and individual training. One highlight of the event was the demonstration of how companies can use AI software to preserve the knowledge and years of experience of proven sales staff and pass it on to the next generation. The programs can be used not only to train communication skills, but also to pass on tips and strategies from experienced colleagues to successors in the form of avatar coaching. This makes it possible to practise directly on potential customers in an interactive speech-and-response scenario.

Conclusion: AI as the key to sales optimization

The combination of proven sales methods and modern AI solutions offers companies a real competitive advantage. From content flow management to individual training with avatars – AI helps to pass on knowledge, expand skills and sustainably optimize sales. Events like this illustrate the potential of AI-supported training and how companies can benefit from it.

Curious now?

Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

Canva Workshop: Effective designs for more visibility and sales

Our Canva workshop: Graphics for sales!

/in , /by
2 Min.

Among the applications that have taken up the fight as “David” against the giant “Goliath” and won is the graphics software Canva. The advantages that Canva has over the top dog Adobe pay off, especially for small to medium-sized design projects. Canva offers decisive strengths for sales campaigns in particular, for example in terms of digitization and flexibility.

Efficiency and simplicity in the design process

Canva simplifies design work with a streamlined, intuitive user interface and AI-powered features that enable ideas to be realized quickly and professionally. The browser-based implementation also promotes teamwork, as multiple participants can work on projects in real time. Another advantage of Canva is the comparatively low subscription fee, which also makes it attractive for SMEs to use. Particularly in the B2B sector, but also in B2C, Canva achieves a higher visibility that is supported by targeted campaigns. Canva is therefore ideal for enabling high-quality brand development in sales without having to involve external designers.

Screenshot of Canva design templates for print products such as invitations, postcards and flyers

Fast and brand-compliant implementation of sales projects

Because Canva is easy to use, even non-graphic designers in sales can quickly create print-ready materials that adhere to corporate design guidelines. Canva supports this with AI-supported features that automatically adapt colors, logos and fonts to the brand design and thus strengthen the brand identity. The platform is particularly suitable for short-term campaigns in sales, as designs can be implemented and published in the shortest possible time. Thanks to Canva’s collaborative possibilities, teams can also work together across borders. The platform supports direct networking within the team, which is particularly helpful for employee retention within the company.

Canva user interface with creative templates for

Our Canva workshops for sales – success through knowledge transfer

Our workshop offers the perfect introduction to the use of Canva for sales teams. In just two half training days (training and coaching), we teach the basics and advanced techniques required to implement professional campaigns. This enables sales teams to implement a successful content strategy independently and efficiently.

Curious now?

Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

Digital sales tools and performance marketing with AI

Accelerating the sales of the future with AI and performance marketing

/in , /by
2 Min.

The fact that the linking of sales work and AI tools is currently a hot topic was already evident from the lively participation in our first event and the feedback we received. This was more than just a good omen for a second event on the topic of “Accelerating digital sales with performance marketing and AI“, which was again held on October 9, 2024 in the co-working space “Oskar9” – and this time, too, with a high level of physical and mental participation. Achieving real progress in sales is always a highly relevant business topic, especially when the focus is on practice, as was the case here.

Successful kick-off event shows great interest

The combination of sales work and AI tools is currently a hotly debated topic, as the high level of participation and positive feedback at the first event showed. This response laid the foundation for a second event, which again focused on the topic of “Accelerating digital sales with performance marketing and AI”.

A real-life example was used to illustrate the sales activities of a manufacturer in the automotive industry with the use of performance marketing measures. The scope ranged from the acquisition of new customers via post and email to the design of search engine-optimized landing pages through to making appointments and sending out quotations.

Identify and use optimal sales channels

The decisive “competence” that performance marketing offers here is the identification of processes on the one hand and sales channels on the other, on which sales can develop optimally. Are we more likely to achieve our goal by using classic analog sales channels, or are social media channels, for example, particularly promising as a supplement or even as the main channel?

The subsequent discussion on the topic was equally focused on benefits and objectives. In particular, the additional AI tools that can be used today to enhance sales and increase turnover were discussed.

 

Curious now?
Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

Matthias Brinkmann and Anton Dollmayer on their way to the annual meeting in Belgrade

Annual meeting 2024: ‘Rabbit Hole’ flying high!

/in , /by
3 Min.

As reported, 2be_die markenmacher has been a proud member of the internationally operating ‘Rabbit Hole’ group of companies since mid-2024. Rabbit Hole is characterised by an extensive, IT-based service portfolio that relies on the expertise of highly specialised professionals.

Session at the Rabbit Hole Annual Meeting 2024

Within this network, we focus on our core competences in the areas of sales campaigns and brand development. Close networking within the group of companies enables us to optimise the development of our sales strategies and thus drive the success of our brand forward.

Dinner with a great selection at the annual meeting in Belgrade

Increase sales success and visibility

At our 2024 annual meeting in the Serbian metropolis of Belgrade, it became clear that the ‘Together we are stronger’ concept works extremely well! There is increasing demand for Rabbit Hole’s services, which underlines the consistently high quality. The integration of our sales and brand development services also contributed significantly to our success.

Matthias Brinkmann and Anton Dollmayer stand in front of an illuminated stone gate in Belgrade.

Participants of the Rabbit Hole Annual Meeting 2024 in Belgrade having dinner together.

Matthias Brinkmann from 2be was on site in Belgrade together with Anton Dollmaier from AD IT Systems GmbH to promote intensive dialogue with our co-specialists and provide new impetus for further development. Since our relatively recent membership, we have been able to participate in several major projects and obtain the best feedback from our clients, which has significantly strengthened our visibility and position in the market.

Close-up of a collector's pin showing a tower with hearts and flowers, as well as brochures from 2be_die markenmacher.

 

Development and optimism for the future

Rabbit Hole’s annual meeting, which took place from 19 to 22 September at the Mama Shelter Belgrade hotel, was a complete success. In addition to the ongoing development of the group of companies, which now has 255 employees, it provided ample opportunity for intensive dialogue with our co-specialists. As a small souvenir, each participant received a pin with famous Nuremberg sights, our home town. This exchange not only contributed to the further development of our own expertise, but also gave us plenty of optimism for future sales opportunities and joint brand development. We are ready to further expand our network and increase the visibility of Rabbit Hole and 2be_die markenmacher!

Curious now?
Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

From our references: Examples of modern PowerPoint slides

Classic vs. AI-driven PowerPoint presentation: a comparison

/in /by
3 Min.

The way presentations are created has changed dramatically in recent years.
With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), new tools are now available that can significantly simplify and automate the process of creating presentations.
But how do these AI-driven presentations compare to traditional, manually created presentations?
We wanted to compare the pros and cons of both approaches, especially in the context of sales and branding.

Classic PowerPoint presentation

Strengths:

  1. Individuality and creativity: Classic PowerPoint presentations allow for a high degree of individuality.
    Each slide can be designed exactly according to the creator’s ideas, which is particularly important in order to present the brand uniquely and consistently.
  2. Control and precision: As each slide is created manually, the creator has full control over the design and content.
    This is particularly advantageous in sales, where every piece of information must be conveyed precisely and purposefully.
  3. Adaptability: Manual presentations can be flexibly adapted to different target groups and markets, which improves the visibility of the brand in different contexts.

Weaknesses:

  1. Time-consuming: The biggest disadvantage is the considerable amount of time required to create it.
    This can be a particular disadvantage in dynamic markets where rapid adjustments are required.
  2. Dependence on design skills: The quality of the presentation depends heavily on the design skills of the creator, which can lead to inconsistent results.

AI-driven PowerPoint presentation

Strengths:

  1. Efficiency and speed: AI-supported tools such as Tome, Beautiful.ai or Gamma can create appealing presentations in the shortest possible time.
    This not only saves time, but also makes it possible to react quickly to changes in the market and adapt the sales strategy accordingly.
  2. Automated design suggestions: These tools provide intelligent design suggestions based on proven templates to help create visually appealing and professional slides, even without in-depth design knowledge.
  3. Data integration: Some AI tools enable the automatic integration of real-time data and interactive elements, which makes the presentation more dynamic and appealing.
    This can increase the visibility and engagement of the target group.

Weaknesses:

  1. Lack of individuality: Despite the high level of efficiency, the design options are often limited, which can lead to presentations that appear less individual and therefore differentiate the brand less strongly.
  2. Dependence on technology: The quality of the presentation depends heavily on the reliability of the AI tools.
    Technical problems or limitations in functionality can impair the presentation.
  3. Cost: Many advanced AI tools are paid for and require subscriptions, which can be a hurdle for smaller companies in particular.

Comparison and conclusion

A direct comparison shows that classic PowerPoint presentations score points above all for their individuality and adaptability, but require a great deal of time.
AI-driven presentations, on the other hand, impress with their efficiency and the ability to achieve professional results quickly, which is particularly advantageous in a fast-paced sales environment.
For companies that value a strong brand individuality and are willing to invest in the creative process, the classic method certainly remains the better choice.
For those who need quick results and can rely on automated processes, AI-driven presentations offer clear advantages, especially when it comes to visibility and scalability in sales.
Overall, the choice between a classic and an AI-driven presentation is a question of priorities – be it creativity and control or efficiency and speed.
In the end, as is so often the case, it is a decision that can only be made on an individual basis: Both approaches have their justification and, depending on the context and objectives, can offer decisive advantages.
We hope that we have been able to make the decision a little easier with this article 🙂 Curious? Our contacts will be happy to help you: Katharina ZaunerKatharina Zauner +49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 53zauner@twobe.deLinkedIn

There's no need for annoying cold calls - the rapid development of artificial intelligence offers a wide range of specialized solutions for everyday sales.

More fun in sales with AI

/in /by
2 Min.

Whether video or audio, image or text: The development of artificial intelligence and its applications is currently making quantum leaps. The fact that AI can also be used sensibly for sales purposes is probably due to the fact that there is no overarching complete package that covers all sales areas – especially due to the human complexity of sales.

Futuristic landscape with AI-supported sales tasks

AI solutions for everyday sales

However, there are a number of unique solutions that help both occasional and professional salespeople to manage their day-to-day work and give them more freedom. This works particularly well if they are supported by an AI assistant for tasks that may block them in their work process or even downright hurt them.

Increased efficiency through specialized AI assistants

This can be support in the annoying search for addresses in the course of generating new customers (e.g. For example, through ChatGPT) or for the time-consuming scheduling of appointments with several participants, through the use of MS Copilot to combined solutions, which above all also take into account the necessary data protection compliance.

Efficient working with AI support

More turnover and job satisfaction through AI

What counts here are percentage gains over time or in the sales result, which – as every salesperson knows – can make the decisive difference to the bottom line. But what counts even more is the increase in job satisfaction that AI can enable!

Curious now?
Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

The discussion round on Odoo17 was led by Robert Duckstein from Manatec and Matthias from 2be.

Odoo17 in focus: Intensive discussion round with AI and new app functions

/in , , /by
2 Min.

Our recent meeting brought together partners, current Odoo users and potential customers to discuss the latest version of Odoo,
Odoo 17
in depth. This version stands out in particular thanks to innovations in the field of artificial intelligence and enhanced app functions that have the potential to fundamentally transform the sales sector. Despite Odoo’s reputation as a comprehensive open source ERP system, our meeting focused primarily on customer relationship management (CRM) and the optimization of sales campaigns.


Robert Duckstein
 gave an impressive introduction to the system functionalities, while
Matthias Brinkmann
 shared his practical sales experience. The discussion was moderated by two participants from
Manatec
 who work as project managers and contributed valuable insights from their direct application experience. Experienced customers also commented on the best ways to use the system in their companies.

Networking was a key element of our meeting. In this context, we have decided to set up an Odoo User Group to share best practices, programming knowledge and information about the best apps. Another event is already being planned, this time possibly focusing on the Odoo 17 project app to deepen our knowledge and share practical experiences.

Curious now?
Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

Both distribution and the further development of one's own brand often resemble an irrepressible

Mastering jungle trails in sales and brand development as part of a team

/in , /by
2 Min.

Jungle paths in sales and brand development are usually much better mastered as part of a team than as a lone fighter.

In other words, in markets where products and services are becoming increasingly complex, both creative and technical cooperation are becoming more and more important in order to survive in these markets. This makes joint teamwork more important than ever.

Together we can thereby:

  • generate new products and services to meet emerging or existing market demands.
  • Supplement existing products with additional new modules and enhancements, thus ensuring that the corresponding offers in the market are more interesting for potential customers or also – with regard to your specific requirements – more market-oriented
  • Integrate into existing or newly generated projects via joint work with other partners, thus putting the “icing on the cake” on each of these projects.

What is central to this?

The transparent and functioning exchange over longer distances, which must always be linked to the goal of creating a tangible advantage for each other or with each other as employees, partners, customers and end customers. Partnerships that are too one-sided will sooner or later fail due to the frustration of the partner who is supposedly missing out.

Important: The mutual exchange, the joint implementation and the alternate leadership can also lead to a mutual dispute at times. All the better! Direct confrontation with each other’s requirements and demands often yields better results than communication that is primarily geared toward harmony – a graveyard atmosphere. The success of many joint projects with our favorite customers, employees and partners, both externally and internally, has shown us this.

So: thumbs up, plan and implement!

Current events on this topic

B2B Sales & Campaign
November 16, 2023 – 4:30 – 6:30 pm
Register now for free

Curious now?
Our contact persons will be pleased to help you:

Matthias Brinkmann
+49 (0)911 / 47 49 49 51
brinkmann@twobe.de
LinkedIn

Events

Nothing Found

Sorry, no posts matched your criteria