Hard-sell tactics no longer have a strong effect on consumers. Today, customers want user-friendly interactions with brands.

"Cross-channel marketing is quickly making aggressive, hard sales tactics a thing of the past," states DirectBuy in its infographic.

Customers react more positively to softer tactics. "Soft-selling focuses on building relationships and creating a positive brand impression across various consumer touchpoints," states DirectBuy.

Accordingly, the once-popular sales maxim "Always Be Closing" has become "Always Be Connecting."

To find out more about the best sales tactics for the digital age, click or tap on the infographic.