RIVER FALLS – University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) Professional Sales Club members represented the university at the recent International Collegiate Sales Competition (ICSC) in Orlando, Fla., a global event that challenges students to showcase their skills in relationship building, sales strategy, and persuasive presentations.

UWRF student participants in the event, which occurred from Oct. 30-Nov. 2, are marketing professional sales majors in the College of Education, Business and Allied Health (CEBAH) and participated in three primary categories: a role-play event, a sales management case event, and a speed-selling event.

In the role-play event, students engaged in scenarios that focus on relationship development and customer needs assessment. This event allowed participants to practice interpersonal skills that are essential to success in sales careers.

The sales management case event presented students with complex sales management scenarios that required them to solve real-world business challenges. Participants demonstrated their ability to manage resources, motivate sales teams, and achieve business objectives.

The fast-paced speed-selling competition allowed students to present concise, persuasive sales pitches showcasing their personal brand. In this "elevator pitch" format, students learned to communicate clearly under time constraints, a vital skill in the business world.

Ozcan Kilic, the Professional Sales Club’s faculty advisor and a marketing professor in the School of Business and Economics, said students participating in the competition learned hands-on, real-world sales experience and had the chance to network with industry leaders. Those opportunities offer students learning beyond what they receive in the classroom, Kilic said, and establish UWRF as a leader in sales education.

“Participating in the ICSC in Orlando is not only a transformative, powerful growth experience for our sales team but also a vital step toward our vision for sales education at UWRF,” Kilic said. “This competition not only enhances our students' growth and potential but also elevates the university’s reputation in the field of sales education, showing that UWRF is committed to fostering top talent in a highly competitive industry.”

UWRF’s participation in the competition reflects the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in sales and business, Kilic said. In addition to gaining national recognition, students can make connections with potential employers, laying the groundwork for internships and post-graduation opportunities. 

For more information on the Professional Sales Club or the marketing program, contact Ozcan Kilic at ozcan.kilic@uwrf.edu, or visit https://www.uwrf.edu/programs/marketing-professional-sales. 

Submitted by UW-River Falls