The award from the Institute of Sales Professionals (ISP) is gained when at least 75% of a sales team passes the Institute’s Fair registration exam which tests selling skills, knowledge, professional ethics and decision making.
The sales team at OT Group has exceeded that figure with more than 90% taking and passing the exam, with the rest of the team to follow.
The exam is not a simple test. To pass, candidates must score at least 85% and a new assessment has to be taken every two years to make sure salespeople keep their skills and knowledge up to date to remain on the ISP’s professional register.
The professional ethics exam is based on the ISP’s Fair programme. Salespeople who are members of the Institute sign up to its code of conduct, pledging to Follow the rules; provide Appropriate solutions in the best interests of their customers, stakeholders and the organisations they work for; act with Integrity; and Raise the bar with continuing professional development.
This award marks a significant step in the transformation and development of the OT Group sales force. Following the integration of the contract arm of Office Depot – UK and Ireland, in September 2021, the sales team now operates as a single entity under the leadership of Group Sales Director, Stuart Derbyshire.
“We are delighted to receive this prestigious award from the Institute of Sales Professionals,” said Derbyshire. “Winning this award is a clear indication of OT Group’s dedication to cultivating strong customer relationships and developing a highly-skilled sales team.
“Our sales force is committed to providing the highest levels of service and the best possible experience for our customers.”
Andy Hough, founder of the Institute of Sales Professionals and associate professor of sales performance and leadership at Cranfield University commented: “Many congratulations to the sales team at OT Group who know that improving the way you sell and build customer relationships is not only the right thing to do, it’s also good for business.
“Skills, knowledge and ethical behaviour are essential for good selling. Expert salespeople become respected advisers who can build profitable relationships and work with their clients as trusted business partners. Well done to the whole team.”
