What I’ve seen this year advising and serving clients at M. Allen. My take on each as well from a CRO lense. 

1. Virtual and Hybrid Selling:
- CRO Insight: As a CRO, I see hybrid selling as a game-changer. It’s crucial to equip our salesforce with the right tools to seamlessly blend physical and virtual engagements, maximizing reach and efficiency.

2. Sales Automation and AI:
- CRO Insight: AI and automation are not just buzzwords; they’re essential for scaling operations. By automating routine tasks, my client team can focus more on strategic customer interactions that drive revenue.

3. Omni-Channel Sales:
- CRO Insight: An omnichannel approach allows us to meet customers wherever they are. It’s about creating a unified customer journey across all touchpoints, which is fundamental for increasing sales conversions.

4. Focus on Existing Customers:
- CRO Insight: Retaining and expanding existing customer relationships is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. We need to develop strategies to deepen customer loyalty and increase lifetime value.

5. Self-Service and Rep-Free Experiences: 
- CRO Insight: By offering self-service options, we cater to the growing demand for convenience and personalization. This shift requires us to rethink how we deliver value without direct sales rep involvement.

6. Extended Sales Cycles:
- CRO Insight: Longer sales cycles mean more touchpoints and nurturing. It’s crucial to maintain momentum and engagement throughout the process, ensuring that our prospects remain aligned with our value proposition.

7. Data-Driven Strategies:
- CRO Insight: Leveraging data analytics is no longer optional. As a CRO, I prioritize investing in data capabilities to refine our sales strategies and anticipate customer needs proactively.

8. Buyer's Remorse Reduction:
- CRO Insight: To reduce buyer’s remorse, we must enhance our post-sale support and communication. Ensuring customer satisfaction is key to fostering repeat business and referrals.

9. Sales Tech Stack Optimization:
- CRO Insight: Continuously evaluating and optimizing our sales tech stack is vital for maintaining competitive advantage. It’s about finding the right balance of tools that enhance productivity without overwhelming the team.

10. Leadership and Inclusivity:
- CRO Insight:  As leaders, we must champion inclusivity and adaptability. Preparing our teams for technological shifts and fostering an inclusive culture are crucial for sustainable growth and innovation.

By focusing on these trends, we can drive strategic growth and maintain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving financial services and technology market!