The Selling Power survey ranked U.S. companies with sales forces of 500 or more sales representatives in three categories -- compensation, training and career mobility. Top sales executives, training managers and human resources managers were surveyed to determine rankings. Evaluation of compensation involved average starting salaries, incentive pay plans and other benefit packages. Criteria for training included time invested in product knowledge, selling skills and follow-up instruction. Career mobility was judged upon number of performance reviews, turnover in the sales force and the number of people promoted each year from the sales ranks. Companies were classified in two general industry groups -- manufacturing and service. Overall scores were compiled and the top 25 of each group were named to the 50 best companies to sell for list.
"Our investment in recruiting, training and equipping our employees has given ABF a competitive edge, allowing us to provide superior customer care,” said ABF President and CEO Bob Davidson. “At every level of our company, ABF's employees are empowered to make decisions and respond to each customer's unique requirements."
