Archive · 17 Aug 2025
Sales: A Strategic Driver or Backroom Function?
Imagine sales isn't just about selling; it's the heart of a company's strategy.
The article argues that CEOs should be actively involved in sales because it helps them understand customers and make better decisions.
It uses examples like Flipkart and Salesforce to show how important sales can be.
The article suggests that if sales teams are only expected to execute and aren't part of planning, the company might miss out on valuable insights.
In short, the best companies don't just sell; they make sales a key part of their entire operation.
The article questions whether sales is a strategic driver or a backroom function.
The author shares insights from a meeting with a media company's sales team.
The article emphasizes the importance of CEO involvement in sales and market feedback.
It highlights how companies like Flipkart and Salesforce prioritize sales.
The author encourages leaders to include sales teams in strategic conversations.
- Who
- Yesudas Pillai, founder of Y&A Transformation, and business leaders.
- What
- An examination of whether sales is a strategic driver or a backroom function in business.
- When
- The article discusses the current state of sales within businesses.
- Where
- The article doesn't specify a particular location.
- Why
- To highlight the strategic importance of sales and encourage better integration of sales teams into business strategy.
Sales as a strategic driver
Sales as a backroom function
Strategic vs. Tactical
Sales as a strategic driver
Sales teams should be integral to a company's strategic planning.
Sales as a backroom function
Sales is just about closing deals and executing plans.
- Author
- Yesudas Pillai
- Author's Role
- Founder of Y&A Transformation
- Core Argument
- Sales should be a strategic function, not just a backroom operation.
- Key Concept
- CEO Involvement in Sales
- Examples
- Flipkart, Salesforce