What describes a series of interrelated steps that outline the sales process?

The correct choice is the Sales Cycle, which refers to a defined series of interrelated steps that guide a salesperson through the process of converting a prospect into a customer. This process typically includes stages such as prospecting, initial contact, qualification, presentation, handling objections, and closing the sale. Each step is crucial for moving a potential client closer to making a purchasing decision.

Understanding the Sales Cycle is essential for effective sales strategies, as it allows sales professionals to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and optimize their approach. It acts as a roadmap that ensures all necessary actions are taken to maximize conversion rates.

In contrast, the Sales Funnel represents the visual depiction of the Sales Cycle, focused more on the stages of potential leads rather than a step-by-step process. The Marketing Plan encompasses broader strategies aimed at promoting products or services rather than detailing the process of closing a sale. The Customer Journey captures the entire experience a customer has with a brand, but it is more about the relationship over time rather than the specific steps taken to finalize a sale. Each of these concepts plays a role in sales and marketing, but the Sales Cycle specifically delineates the linear steps necessary for closing sales.