HD Supply’s New Hire Academy is a 30-day comprehensive training program designed to equip newly hired sales associates with the skills and knowledge essential for success.
Program Details
The curriculum covers a broad spectrum, including an in-depth understanding of the wholesale distribution company’s proprietary Sales Model and Consultative Sales Process. Associates also are trained in the effective utilization of sales tools, execution of structured sales calls, and familiarization with new products and services, as well as vertical-specific requirements.
Associates participate in classes that are offered both in-person and virtually. In addition to live instruction, the program incorporates daily question-and-answer sessions to address any concerns or clarifications.
HD Supply also implemented a multifaceted reinforcement strategy that extends up to six months post-completion of the New Hire Academy. This includes:
- Regular assessments conducted by direct managers, providing immediate feedback and facilitating an ongoing dialogue on performance metrics and professional development.
- Targeted eLearning assignments designed to refresh and deepen associates’ understanding of key sales techniques and company-specific protocols.
- Call calibration sessions that serve as real-world, practical audits where associates and managers can jointly review customer interactions to identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.
- Personalized one-on-one instruction sessions to address any specific challenges or areas where an associate may need additional coaching.
For long-term reinforcement, associates have monthly one-on-one coaching sessions with direct managers. These sessions serve as a platform for personalized feedback, goal setting, and skill refinement. Associates also are assigned any newly designed curriculum that becomes available.
And the monthly call calibrations continue to play a pivotal role as both managers and associates collaboratively review actual sales calls, isolating areas for potential improvement and acknowledging successful strategies that should be maintained.
If specific skill deficits are identified, targeted one-on-one instruction is initiated to promptly address these gaps.
Results
Associates who completed the New Hire Academy were able to effectively engage with customers 32 percent faster than their counterparts who didn’t undergo this training.
