Lead response time is a hot topic lately.

Companies have published research highlighting findings such as ‘calling inbound leads in under a minute delivers 3-4X conversion rates’ and ‘calling within 5 minutes vs. 30 minutes drops the odds of qualifying by 21X.’

I believe those studies are well done and their findings are true. But the question remains: for those of us with fairly complex B2B sales processes, do they matter? 

My hypothesis is that contact and conversion rates rarely equal quality of conversation (and ultimately revenue). I see two big problems in our rush to make contact.

The strategy of dividing inbound qualification and outbound prospecting into separate roles has crossed the chasm. In our 2014 SDR Metrics report, we identified that nearly 40% of companies have implemented SDR role specialization.

On paper, I love this approach as it creates focus and accountability. In practice, it takes careful planning and diligent monitoring to reap the full benefits.

I recently chatted with 3 high-growth companies on their lessons learned.

GoodData: Distinct Model, Distinct Goals

Casey Corrigan, Director of Inside Sales at GoodData, segmented roles for three reasons. 1) Lead routing rules had become complicated to the point of being cumbersome. 2) Constant shifting of gears between inbound and outbound was impacting momentum. 3) Reps followed the money when the comp plan paid at different rates for inbound vs. outbound.

What happens when your top rep gives notice? Or an A-player goes on maternity leave? Or that amazing candidate takes another offer?

Turnover and open territories are a sales reality. They also take a big bite out of your revenue.

The other day, I was talking to a SaaS VP of Sales with a team of 34 closing reps. Internally, she was facing 28% attrition (both voluntary and not). Externally, a tough hiring market made positions harder and harder to fill.

She told me filling open spots was like a never ending game of whack-a-mole and put her ability to make the number at risk.

I offered this: Ranger Reps to the rescue

A Ranger Rep is a seasoned, organized, and team-oriented rep who thrives on change and challenge. 

Their mission is to help the team hit the group number by flattening the dips that come from losing reps. Ranger Reps are there to cover (and sell!) in your open territories.