Learn how to bounce back from a failed technical sales demo with strategic reflection, feedback, and practice for improved future performances.

Most people think a sales demo focuses more on technical aspects like product features, functionality, and superiority compared to alternative products. However, a successful sales demo actually emphasizes non-technical aspects, such as building rapport and transferring product ownership to the user. It shows them how our product can make their lives better. By analyzing and observing both technical and non-technical aspects, you can identify the root causes of a failed sales demo. After that, you can develop a recovery plan to improve and prevent similar mistakes from happening in the future.

Here's how you can bounce back from a failed sales demo.

Every sales professional knows the sting of a demo that doesn't go as planned. But even when technology fails or the pitch falls flat, it's not the end of the road. Instead, it's a chance to learn, adapt, and come back stronger. The key is to approach the setback with the right mindset and strategic actions. Here's how you can bounce back from a failed sales demo and turn it into an opportunity for growth in technical sales.

1 Reflect First

After a demo goes awry, take a moment to reflect on what happened before diving into damage control. Analyze the situation calmly and objectively. What were the major stumbling blocks? Was it a technical glitch, a miscommunication, or perhaps a mismatch of client expectations? Understanding the root cause is your first step towards recovery. Remember, reflection isn't about beating yourself up; it's about gaining insights to improve future performances.

Add your perspective

Yusak Siswanto

Sales Professional | Full-Cycle & Strategic Sales | Tech-Savvy with a Passion for Emerging Technologies
Report contribution
Most people think a sales demo focuses more on technical aspects like product features, functionality, and superiority compared to alternative products. However, a successful sales demo actually emphasizes non-technical aspects, such as building rapport and transferring product ownership to the user. It shows them how our product can make their lives better. By analyzing and observing both technical and non-technical aspects, you can identify the root causes of a failed sales demo. After that, you can develop a recovery plan to improve and prevent similar mistakes from happening in the future.

Like
Danish Shaikh

Connecting the dots...
Report contribution
Analyze and Learn: Review the demo to identify what went wrong and note areas for improvement. Seek Feedback: Ask for constructive feedback from the prospect to understand their perspective. Adjust Strategy: Refine your pitch, presentation, and approach based on the feedback and analysis. Practice: Rehearse the updated demo to ensure a smoother delivery next time. Follow Up: Send a follow-up email to the prospect addressing their concerns and offering additional value or solutions. Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and view the experience as a learning opportunity. By focusing on these steps, you can turn a failed demo into a valuable learning experience and improve future sales presentations.

Like
Harish Kalgundi

University Partnerships | Helping Universities Leverage Private Market Insights with Tracxn | Expert in Academic Collaboration & Data-Driven Strategies | Private Market Analytics
Report contribution
You require resilience and strategic reflection to bounce back from a failed sales demo. First, analyze what went wrong—was it a technical glitch, misalignment with the client's needs, or an unengaged audience? Follow up promptly with the client, acknowledging the setback and expressing a strong commitment to addressing their needs. Offer a personalized, solution-focused second demo, highlighting improvements and tailored benefits. Show empathy, transparency, and unwavering confidence in your product's value, transforming the failure into a powerful demonstration of your dedication and adaptability.

Like

2 Seek Feedback

Don't shy away from asking for feedback directly from your prospect. It may be uncomfortable, but it's invaluable. Approach the conversation with humility and a genuine desire to learn. Ask specific questions about what they liked and didn't like, and listen without getting defensive. This direct line of communication can reveal insights that you might not see on your own and can help tailor your approach for future demos.

Add your perspective

Rafael Amantéa

Senior Account Executive, SAP
Report contribution
Every sales presentation is customer centric. In case it "fails", seeking feedback is also a way of showing we are wiling to improve, and it might get you a second chance to present it.

Like

3 Adjust Strategy

Based on the feedback and your own reflections, it's time to adjust your strategy. If technical issues were the culprit, work with your support team to resolve them. If the demo didn't resonate with the client's needs, revisit your discovery process to ensure you're highlighting the most relevant features. Tweaking your demo strategy can prevent similar issues in the future and shows prospects that you're responsive to their needs.

Add your perspective

4 Practice Diligently

Practice makes perfect, especially after a stumble. Use this opportunity to refine your demo skills. Work on your delivery, your timing, and your ability to engage the audience. Consider role-playing with a colleague to simulate different scenarios and responses. The more you practice, the more confident you'll become in your ability to handle whatever comes your way during a demo.

Add your perspective

5 Reengage Tactfully

When you're ready, reach out to the prospect again with a new and improved approach. Acknowledge the previous demo's shortcomings and express your commitment to meeting their needs. Offer a second demonstration, highlighting the changes and improvements you've made. This shows professionalism and dedication to customer satisfaction, qualities that can turn a failed demo into a successful relationship.

Add your perspective

6 Maintain Positivity

Finally, keep a positive attitude throughout the process. A failed demo is not a reflection of your worth as a sales professional; it's a single event in your career. Stay optimistic and use the experience as a stepping stone. With each setback, you're learning and growing, which ultimately makes you a more skilled and resilient technical salesperson.

Add your perspective

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

Here's how you can bounce back from a failed sales demo.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect First

2 Seek Feedback

3 Adjust Strategy

4 Practice Diligently

5 Reengage Tactfully

6 Maintain Positivity

7 Here’s what else to consider

Technical Sales

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Technical Sales

More relevant reading

Here's how you can bounce back from a failed sales demo.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect First

2 Seek Feedback

3 Adjust Strategy

4 Practice Diligently

5 Reengage Tactfully

6 Maintain Positivity

7 Here’s what else to consider

Technical Sales

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills