June 2026 Which deals in your pipeline are real?
Challenge Clear the ghost deals so your forecast matches reality before holidays scatter your sales rhythm.
Tip 1: Expiry rules your team can defend
If something can live in “proposal” forever with no movement, you’ve got a parking lot, not a stage.
Fix it now: Agree one rule everyone can repeat: for example, no meaningful activity in 60 days means nurture or closed lost with a reason. Run that filter today. Count what moves.
More on qualifying out stalled deals: the importance of a sales pipeline.
Tip 2: Make each stage mean something testable
“Proposal sent” should require a few boxes ticked: economic buyer met, pricing sent, decision date in sight. Your list. Written down.
Fix it now: Pick your three busiest stages. Add one mandatory field or checklist before a deal can sit there. In your next leadership meeting, open five random opportunities. Do they meet the bar?
Next step
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