Skype

Definition

Skype is a telecommunications application that provides video chat and voice call services through the internet. It allows users to connect and communicate in real-time, making it a popular tool for virtual meetings and presentations, especially in the context of modern selling techniques where face-to-face interaction is replaced by online communication platforms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Skype was launched in 2003 and quickly became a leading platform for both personal and business communications globally.
2. The platform supports not only one-on-one calls but also group calls, allowing multiple participants to connect simultaneously, which is ideal for team meetings.
3. Skype integrates features like screen sharing and instant messaging, enhancing collaboration during virtual sales presentations.
4. It is compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, making it accessible for users on the go.
5. Skype's ability to record calls allows sales professionals to review meetings and improve future interactions based on past performance.

Review Questions

• How does Skype facilitate effective communication in a virtual selling environment?
  • Skype enhances communication in a virtual selling environment by providing tools such as video conferencing, which mimics face-to-face interactions. This visual element helps build rapport with clients, as non-verbal cues can be observed. Additionally, features like screen sharing enable sales professionals to present products or services effectively, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive information during discussions.
• Evaluate the advantages of using Skype over traditional in-person meetings for sales professionals.
  • Using Skype offers several advantages over traditional in-person meetings for sales professionals. First, it eliminates travel time and costs, allowing professionals to connect with clients across different locations easily. Second, the platform's features, such as recording capabilities and instant messaging, provide valuable tools for follow-up and documentation. Lastly, Skype can accommodate larger groups for presentations without requiring everyone to be physically present in one location.
• Discuss how the integration of Skype into virtual selling strategies has transformed customer relationship management.
  • The integration of Skype into virtual selling strategies has significantly transformed customer relationship management by enabling more flexible and immediate communication channels. Sales professionals can respond to customer inquiries in real-time through video or voice calls, fostering a sense of accessibility and attentiveness. This transformation not only strengthens client relationships but also facilitates personalized interactions that can lead to improved sales outcomes, as customers feel more valued when they have direct access to representatives through familiar technology.

Related terms

Video Conferencing: A technology that allows users in different locations to hold face-to-face meetings using video and audio transmissions.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): A technology that enables voice communication and multimedia sessions over the internet rather than traditional telephone lines.

Webinar: A seminar conducted over the internet, allowing for live interaction between the presenter and the audience, often used for training or marketing purposes.