I find it interesting that no matter what organization I work with there always seems to be a major disconnect between production and sales. Even in service organization there is disconnect between the service providers and their sales. Shouldn’t they be on the same page? Aren’t they trying to achieve the same goal?
If you ask them why there is such disconnect, they will say things like:
“Sales doesn’t understand what it takes to make the product. They make promises that we can’t keep.”
“Production just doesn’t get it. We have to have it this way or we can’t make the sale. The competition is doing it why can’t we?”
When they get together all they do is fight. No one stops and listens to the other side. Why you may ask. Unless you are in sales or production in which case you think you already know the answer. I believe it is because we haven’t trained people to effectively problem solve. Therefore all the past experiences of the individual come into play. And of course our past memories are never wrong….Right?
Wrong. Most people remember at least of version (their view point) of the past situation. Of course the future will be a repeat of the past. But it doesn’t have to be.
All segments of the organization need to be able to sit down and withhold judgment not only on the issue but also the individuals involved. Sales and production can and should be an incredible force for your organization. They need to see the other as a trusted partner not an evil force that needs to be conquered.
Tell us about how you have been able to get your sales and production teams to work together.
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