Classes are held multiple times throughout the year, either remotely or in the idyllic grounds of the Chesterford Research Park. We include lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
Channel partners, comprising resellers, affiliate partners, distributors, value-added providers, and independent retailers, play a pivotal role in technical sales. Using channel partners allows a business to access markets and customers that would otherwise be impractical or prohibitively expensive to reach through direct sales.
However, effectively collaborating with, managing, and influencing these partners, who operate independently and outside of direct authority, demands a distinct set of skills and processes compared to selling directly.
This training course builds upon a proven program with a decade-long track record, providing individuals selling through partners with the essential skills and processes necessary to drive exceptional outcomes.
Remote / Online:
The modules are delivered in four, three-hour remote sessions, with two optional, three-hour advanced sessions
In Person / Classroom:
If you prefer in person training then the course is also delivered in the classroom over two days, with an optional 'advanced' third day.
This course is perfect for full-time channel partner managers or direct salespeople with responsibility over distributors.
What You Will Learn
We deliver the Selling Through Distribution Partners course both online and in the classroom. Both are live and interactive sessions designed to equip you with the skills and techniques to build, manage, and maximise relationships with your channel partners.
By the end of the course, you’ll know how to:
Identify and select the right channel partners to drive growth and maximise performance.
Set clear goals, monitor key metrics, and conduct productive business reviews to ensure success.
Improve communication and influence by applying active listening techniques and strategic engagement.
Enhance your leadership capabilities by coaching partners and handling difficult conversations effectively.

Module 3 Agenda:
Classroom Day 2 Morning / Remote Session 3
Monitoring metrics
Understand: the key performance indicators (KPIs) for assessing distribution partner success
Learn: how to analyse performance data effectively
Outcome: the ability to make informed decisions based on measurable insights
Conducting business reviews
Understand: the value of regular business reviews
Learn: techniques for leading reviews that strengthen relationships and inspire partners
Outcome: more productive and meaningful business discussions
Dealing with underperformance
Understand: the key elements of recovery planning
Learn: strategies for addressing performance issues and, when necessary, terminating partnerships
Outcome: confidence in handling performance challenges effectivelyModule 4 Agenda:
Classroom Day 2 Afternoon / Remote Session 4
Effective communication techniques
Understand: the importance of active listening and tailored communication
Learn: how to use different communication methods to build lasting relationships
Outcome: enhanced communication skills for stronger partner engagement
Effective joint visits
Understand: the value of joint visits in driving partner engagement
Learn: strategies to maximise the impact of joint visits
Outcome: stronger relationships and increased value from your partner network
Exerting positive personal influence internally and externally
Understand: how to build internal and external networks without direct authority
Learn: key principles and tools for influencing stakeholders effectively
Outcome: the ability to mobilise resources and motivate key players in the partner ecosystemModule 5 Agenda:
Optional Advanced Module: Classroom Day 3 Morning / Remote Session 5
Taking business plans to the next level
Understand: how to align business plans with corporate strategy
Learn: how to manage growth, assess strategic fit, and conduct risk planning
Outcome: a more strategic and forward-thinking approach to channel partner management
Coaching your partners to success
Understand: the role of coaching in partner development
Learn: how to use the GROW coaching model and give effective feedback
Outcome: stronger relationships and improved partner performanceModule 6 Agenda:
Optional Advanced Module: Classroom Day 3 Afternoon / Remote Session 6
Conducting difficult conversations
Understand: the key principles for addressing tough issues such as underperformance and contract breaches
Learn: best practices for handling these conversations constructively
Outcome: confidence in managing challenging discussions with professionalism
Running a successful distributor meeting
Understand: the do’s and don’ts of a productive partner meeting
Learn: how to plan training, drive engagement, and ensure ROI for both supplier and partner
Outcome: increased effectiveness in distributor meetings and training sessionsWho Should Attend?
“Thank you very much for all of the training sessions since August! I received a lot of great feedback from our Sales Team members about all that they have taken away from the trainings. The role playing session was extremely helpful in coaching them to use all concepts earlier training sessions to the end: qualification - NAMTCR, how to develop relationship with KOL's, facing competition, handling objections (APIAC), and making great presentations. The team very much enjoyed everything, and appreciate that you made it fun! We are all much more equipped than before!"
"The course last week was excellent, really really great for me just a few months into this world of sales. I have already been using some of the things you taught us and I have my first solo visit to a client next week and will definitely be starting the meeting with TRA!"
"Pru's Sales Leadership Programme is insightful, well structured, and there is a story to give the real-world context for every example. You come wanting to put everything into action, but the course helps you to channel your enthusiasm and energy into some achievable short and medium-term goals. All in all, an incredibly valuable experience."