IBM

Introduction to Sales: Foundations for Success

IBM

Introduction to Sales: Foundations for Success

Rodrigo Seruya Cabral
Starweaver

Instructors: Rodrigo Seruya Cabral

Included with Coursera Plus

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Build a foundation in professional sales by mastering roles, processes, methodologies, and technologies for success in modern sales organizations.

  • Navigate the sales landscape by differentiating roles, understanding structures, and mapping career progression from entry-level to leadership.

  • Execute sales processes using SPIN, Challenger, and Solution Selling while demonstrating strong communication and relationship-building skills.

  • Leverage sales technology and create a career strategy aligned with ethical principles, strengths, and professional portfolio development.

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Recently updated!

April 2026

Assessments

12 assignments¹

AI Graded see disclaimer
Taught in English

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There are 4 modules in this course

In this module, you will explore the diverse landscape of the sales profession, discovering various roles, career paths, and organizational structures that define modern sales teams. You will learn how sales professionals collaborate with marketing and customer success teams to drive revenue growth. Through self-assessment, you will begin to identify which sales roles best align with your personal strengths. By the end of this module, you will have a clear understanding of the key players in the sales ecosystem and how they work together.

What's included

11 videos11 readings3 assignments1 plugin

In this module, you will master the foundational knowledge every sales professional needs to succeed. You will explore the complete sales cycle and learn how the selling environment, from B2B to B2C and inside to field sales—shapes the approach. You will use a character strengths framework to identify your ideal sales environment. Through examination of proven methodologies and sales psychology, you will develop a toolkit of approaches for different selling situations, preparing you to engage customers effectively while building trust and delivering value.

What's included

11 videos5 readings4 assignments1 app item1 plugin

In this module, you will gain hands-on experience with the technology ecosystem that powers modern sales operations. You will learn to navigate Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, master communication and productivity tools, and explore how artificial intelligence is beginning to transform sales processes. Through practical demonstrations and labs, you will build confidence in using these tools to manage relationships, track opportunities, and enhance productivity. This foundation prepares you to adapt quickly to any sales technology stack in your future role.

What's included

6 videos6 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt1 plugin

In this final module, you will first explore the critical importance of ethics and integrity in building a successful sales career. You will then synthesize all course learning into a comprehensive Sales Career Launch Plan that demonstrates your readiness for the profession. Through creating practical deliverables including role analyses, sales process maps, and a personalized development roadmap, you will build a portfolio that showcases your understanding and commitment to professional selling. The module concludes with resources to support your career transition and a final exam validating your mastery of sales fundamentals.

What's included

5 videos8 readings2 assignments1 peer review2 plugins

Instructors

Rodrigo Seruya Cabral
0 Courses0 learners

Offered by

IBM

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¹ Some assignments in this course are AI-graded. For these assignments, your data will be used in accordance with Coursera's Privacy Notice.