Two years into AI’s mainstream adoption, B2B sales leaders are doubling down on AI. With 98% of executives planning to invest this year, the real questions are: why now, and how?
LinkedIn and Ipsos surveyed 1,250 global sales pros in our ROI of AI study to explore this surge in AI investment and the returns it’s delivering. The findings reveal growing confidence in AI’s power to drive efficiency, productivity, and revenue. Read on to dive into the insights shaping the future of sales!
The Surge in AI Investment in B2B Sales

iWatch the video here] AI is transforming sales—fast. Reps using it daily are twice as likely to hit quota, cut sales cycles by a week, and see up to 30% better response rates through smarter outreach.
With 98% of execs planning to invest, tools like AI-powered CRMs and sales intelligence are top priorities. But successful adoption takes more than hype—it requires intentional leadership.
Our ROI of AI study reveals the top three enablers and blockers to getting it right.

Tackling these challenges unlocks big ROI and sets teams up for long-term success. As AI investments grow, "future-ready" sales execs rose from 28% to 39% in just three months. Explore more in LinkedIn’s ROI of AI study.
Almost 75% of Seller Time Isn’t Spent Selling, But AI Is Changing That

"Watch full video here] A major sales challenge: 75% of seller time goes to internal tasks, not selling. At Davos, LinkedIn’s Alyssa Merwin and Salesforce’s Alexa Vignone shared how AI is changing that—automating prep, research, and proposals to free up time for what matters most.
By automating admin work, AI lets sellers focus on what counts—driving revenue and building stronger relationships. It’s a clear path to more agile, effective sales teams.
“I think meeting prep, customer prep, proposal prep, are all places where you're going to see technology intervene in a way that helps you get to that customer conversation faster.” -Alexa Vignone
Scaling Sales Success with AI-Powered Precision

9Watch the full video here] AI is changing sales—but what does that look like in action?
LinkedIn’s Emma Johnston struggled to grow an account until AI tool Lead IQ identified a key decision-maker on the board. With timely insights, she secured a meeting—and the deal tripled in value. It’s a clear example of AI driving real business impact.
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