[richsin]

The relationship between technical and sales is always going to be complex.

A salesperson has to not only sell, but retain customers. It's their job, regardless of where the product is at. Customers are not easily acquired and the position is unforgiving.

As a hybrid sales/development guy, I was always conflicted selling products that I found myself having to convince users to stick with it on the renewal, because the product is not performing as it should or as promised. It was the technical side of me knowing this product is not really where it should be, just good enough.

And the clauses, yuck!, cancellation fees to end contracts, worst conversation to have with someone you're trying to build a relationship with. For anyone with a conscience, it's a hard position to be in but that's what you are being paid to do, sell. To survive you have to be at peace with the process and have a long term outlook that the product will get better.

It's crushing to have to sell a not so great product just as much as it is hard to push one out. I think what really makes the difference is the company culture and shared vision. If people are not ultimately working toward the same long term goal, there is going to be a disconnect.