Top 10 Telecommunications Companies in 2024

Companies	Employees	HQ location	Revenue	Website	Industry
AT&T	View 173,698 employees	🇺🇸 USA, TX, Dallas	$ 1B+	att.com	Internet, Telecommunications, Wired Telecommunications, Wireless, Mobile, ISP
Verizon	View 94,572 employees	🇺🇸 USA, NJ, Basking Ridge	$ 1B+	verizon.com	Mobile, Telecommunications, Wireless, Internet, Mobile Devices
BT Group	View 78,169 employees	🇬🇧 United Kingdom, London	$ 500M – $ 1B	bt.com	Internet, TV, Telecommunications, Video Streaming, Wired Telecommunications, Mobile, eSports
Deutsche Telekom	View 64,932 employees	🇩🇪 Germany, Bonn	$ 500M – $ 1B	telekom.com	Communications Infrastructure, Telecommunications, Internet, Wired Telecommunications
Vodafone	View 139,695 employees	🇬🇧 United Kingdom, London	$ 1B+	vodafone.com	Internet, Telecommunications, Wireless, ISP, Wired Telecommunications, VoIP, Communications Infrastructure
Rostelecom	View 5,425 employees	🇷🇺 Russia, Moscow	$ 500M – $ 1B	rt.ru	Telecommunications
Orange	View 130,091 employees	🇫🇷 France, Paris	$ 1B+	orange.com	Telecommunications
Telefónica	View 123,322 employees	🇪🇸 Spain, Madrid	$ 1B+	telefonica.com	Telecommunications, Information Technology, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Internet, Unified Communications, Communications Infrastructure
T-Mobile	View 85,441 employees	🇺🇸 USA, WA, Bellevue	$ 1B+	t-mobile.com	Mobile, Telecommunications, Mobile Devices, Internet, Wireless, Wired Telecommunications
Telus	View 32,837 employees	🇨🇦 Canada, Vancouver	$ 1B+	telus.com	E-Commerce, Shopping, Internet, Price Comparison, Telecommunications, Mobile Devices, Mobile, Coupons, Wired Telecommunications

1. AT&T

AT&T is a leading telecommunications company providing mobile, broadband, and entertainment services to millions of customers across the U.S. and globally. Known for its expansive 5G network and fiber-optic internet, AT&T enables faster connectivity and seamless digital experiences. Beyond telecom, the company offers media services through its ownership of WarnerMedia, bringing content like HBO and CNN to consumers. AT&T’s focus on innovation and infrastructure investment helps businesses and individuals stay connected in an increasingly digital world, making it a key player in the communications and media landscape.

Location 🇺🇸 USA, TX, Dallas	Size View 173,698 employees
Revenue $ 1B+	Industries Internet, Telecommunications, Wired Telecommunications, Wireless, Mobile, ISP
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2. Verizon

Verizon is a global telecommunications giant, best known for its reliable wireless network and broadband services. With a strong focus on expanding 5G technology, Verizon provides fast, secure connectivity for consumers and businesses alike. The company also offers fiber-optic internet through its Fios brand, enhancing digital experiences with high-speed, low-latency connections. Verizon’s commitment to innovation in areas like IoT and edge computing positions it as a leader in enabling the next generation of digital transformation, helping customers stay connected and competitive in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Location 🇺🇸 USA, NJ, Basking Ridge	Size View 94,572 employees
Revenue $ 1B+	Industries Mobile, Telecommunications, Wireless, Internet, Mobile Devices
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3. BT Group

BT Group is a UK-based telecommunications and digital services provider, offering broadband, mobile, and TV services to consumers, along with IT solutions for businesses. Through its Openreach division, BT manages the UK’s largest broadband network, delivering high-speed fiber connections to homes and businesses nationwide. The company also provides secure global communications services for enterprises, helping organizations stay connected and competitive. BT’s focus on expanding its fiber and 5G infrastructure, combined with its leadership in cybersecurity and cloud services, positions it as a key player in the evolving digital economy.

Location 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, London	Size View 78,169 employees
Revenue $ 500M – $ 1B	Industries Internet, TV, Telecommunications, Video Streaming, Wired Telecommunications, Mobile, eSports
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4. Deutsche Telekom

Deutsche Telekom is one of Europe’s largest telecommunications providers, offering mobile, broadband, and IT services to consumers and businesses across the globe. Through its subsidiary T-Mobile, the company plays a major role in the U.S. market, particularly with its cutting-edge 5G network. Deutsche Telekom is focused on expanding high-speed fiber and 5G connectivity, as well as delivering integrated solutions in cloud services and IoT for businesses. With a commitment to innovation and digital transformation, Deutsche Telekom helps enterprises and individuals stay connected in an increasingly digital and globalized world.

Location 🇩🇪 Germany, Bonn	Size View 64,932 employees
Revenue $ 500M – $ 1B	Industries Communications Infrastructure, Telecommunications, Internet, Wired Telecommunications
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5. Vodafone

Vodafone is a global telecommunications leader, providing mobile, broadband, and digital services across Europe, Africa, and Asia. Renowned for its expansive mobile network and leadership in 5G, Vodafone connects millions of people and businesses with reliable and fast communication solutions. The company is also a major player in IoT, offering connected devices and smart solutions for industries like automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing. With a focus on digital innovation and sustainability, Vodafone is committed to empowering societies and driving economic growth through improved connectivity and cutting-edge technology.

Location 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, London	Size View 139,695 employees
Revenue $ 1B+	Industries Internet, Telecommunications, Wireless, ISP, Wired Telecommunications, VoIP, Communications Infrastructure
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6. Rostelecom

Rostelecom is Russia’s largest telecommunications provider, offering a wide range of services including broadband, mobile, and digital TV to consumers, along with cloud, data center, and cybersecurity solutions for businesses. The company plays a central role in Russia’s digital infrastructure, managing the country’s largest fiber-optic network and serving as a key partner for government projects in digital transformation and IT services. Rostelecom’s focus on expanding 5G, smart city solutions, and data services positions it as a critical player in shaping Russia’s digital future.

Location 🇷🇺 Russia, Moscow	Size View 5,425 employees
Revenue $ 500M – $ 1B	Industries Telecommunications
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7. Orange

Orange is a leading global telecommunications company, providing mobile, broadband, and digital services across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Known for its strong network infrastructure and expanding 5G services, Orange connects millions of individuals and businesses with reliable, high-speed communication. Beyond telecom, the company offers digital banking, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions, helping enterprises with their digital transformation journeys. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Orange focuses on enhancing connectivity and driving digital inclusion in both developed and emerging markets.

Location 🇫🇷 France, Paris	Size View 130,091 employees
Revenue $ 1B+	Industries Telecommunications
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8. Telefónica

Telefónica is a global telecommunications giant based in Spain, offering mobile, broadband, and digital services across Europe and Latin America. Known for its advanced fiber-optic and 5G networks, Telefónica connects millions of consumers and businesses with fast, reliable communication solutions. The company also provides cloud, cybersecurity, and IoT services, helping enterprises navigate digital transformation. With a focus on innovation and sustainable growth, Telefónica is a key player in shaping the future of connectivity and technology in the regions it serves.

Location 🇪🇸 Spain, Madrid	Size View 123,322 employees
Revenue $ 1B+	Industries Telecommunications, Information Technology, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Internet, Unified Communications, Communications Infrastructure
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9. T-Mobile

T-Mobile is a major telecommunications provider in the U.S., known for its expansive 5G network and customer-centric approach. The company offers mobile and wireless services to both consumers and businesses, with a focus on delivering fast, reliable connectivity. T-Mobile’s aggressive 5G rollout has positioned it as a leader in next-generation wireless technology, enabling innovations in areas like IoT and edge computing. Through its Un-carrier strategy, T-Mobile has disrupted the industry with simplified pricing and no-contract plans, focusing on flexibility, customer satisfaction, and a seamless digital experience.

Location 🇺🇸 USA, WA, Bellevue	Size View 85,441 employees
Revenue $ 1B+	Industries Mobile, Telecommunications, Mobile Devices, Internet, Wireless, Wired Telecommunications
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10. Telus

Telus is a Canadian telecommunications company offering a wide range of services, including mobile, internet, TV, and smart home solutions. Known for its reliable network and expansive 5G coverage, Telus connects consumers and businesses across Canada with fast, high-quality communications. Beyond telecom, Telus also provides healthcare technology, digital security, and IoT solutions, helping organizations drive digital innovation. The company emphasizes customer service and sustainability, leveraging its technology to make a positive social impact while supporting the digital transformation of industries like healthcare, agriculture, and smart cities.

Location 🇨🇦 Canada, Vancouver	Size View 32,837 employees
Revenue $ 1B+	Industries E-Commerce, Shopping, Internet, Price Comparison, Telecommunications, Mobile Devices, Mobile, Coupons, Wired Telecommunications
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Things to Consider When Prospecting into Telecommunications Companies

Common Pain Points and Challenges for Companies in Telecoms

Network Infrastructure Overload

As the demand for high-speed internet and mobile connectivity grows, telecom companies are facing increased pressure on their network infrastructure. This often leads to slower connection speeds and dropped calls, especially in high-density areas.

Why it’s a pain point:

Growing consumer and business demand for 5G and faster internet.
High costs associated with upgrading infrastructure.
Congestion in urban areas leading to quality issues.

Sales Insight: When reaching out to prospects, acknowledge the infrastructure challenges they’re facing. Highlight how your solution can help them optimize bandwidth usage or reduce infrastructure strain. By offering a way to enhance network reliability, you’ll position yourself as a partner that helps them meet growing customer demands head-on.

Customer Churn

Telecom companies experience high customer turnover due to the commoditization of services, aggressive competition, and customer dissatisfaction with service reliability or pricing.

Why it’s a pain point:

Intense competition in pricing and promotions from rivals.
Difficulty retaining customers with value-added services.
Low switching costs for customers looking to change providers.

Sales Insight: You can use this to your advantage by addressing churn concerns upfront. Emphasize how your solution can improve customer loyalty or reduce churn by offering better service or unique value. Show them how working with you can directly impact their bottom line through stronger customer retention.

Regulatory Compliance

Telecom companies are subject to complex and constantly evolving regulations, particularly concerning data privacy, service reliability, and national security.

Why it’s a pain point:

Increasing data protection regulations (GDPR, CCPA, etc.).
Penalties for non-compliance can be costly.
Complexity in managing regulations across multiple countries.

Sales Insight: If you’re working with a prospect in this space, position your solution as something that simplifies compliance management. Acknowledge their challenges and show how you can help them navigate these complex regulations, reducing risk and keeping their operations running smoothly.

Cost Pressures

Maintaining and upgrading telecom infrastructure is capital-intensive, with constant pressure to keep costs down while improving service.

Why it’s a pain point:

High investment costs for infrastructure upgrades, especially with the shift to 5G.
Pressure to offer competitive pricing to customers.
Balancing cost-cutting with maintaining service quality.

Sales Insight: Sales professionals can frame their offering as a cost-effective solution that still delivers high quality. By focusing on how you can help telecoms maintain service levels while reducing expenses, you’ll tap into their need to balance investment with profitability.

Cybersecurity Threats

Telecom companies are prime targets for cyberattacks, given the sensitive data they handle and their critical role in national infrastructure.

Why it’s a pain point:

Increased frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks.
High cost of data breaches and service interruptions.
Regulatory pressure to safeguard customer data.

Sales Insight: If your solution offers robust security features, now is the time to lead with that value. Address their concerns directly by highlighting how you can help protect their network and customer data. This will resonate with decision-makers who are prioritizing security in their operations.

Rural and Remote Connectivity Gaps

Despite advancements in urban areas, providing reliable telecom services to rural or remote locations remains a challenge.

Why it’s a pain point:

High infrastructure costs to reach low-density populations.
Limited profitability in rural markets.
Growing demand for equitable access to high-speed internet across regions.

Sales Insight: When speaking to prospects focused on expanding rural coverage, position your solution as one that can help bridge this gap cost-effectively. Show empathy for the challenge and discuss how your product can help expand service while controlling costs.

Technology Obsolescence

With rapid technological advancements, telecom companies struggle to keep up with innovation while avoiding obsolescence of their existing systems.

Why it’s a pain point:

Constant need to update or replace outdated technology.
High costs associated with legacy system upgrades.
Pressure to adopt new technologies, like 5G, before competitors.

Sales Insight: You can position your solution as future-proof or adaptable to changing technologies. Show how working with you will help telecoms stay ahead of industry trends without the fear of immediate obsolescence, easing their transition into new technologies.

Data Management and Analytics

Telecom companies handle massive amounts of data, but leveraging that data for customer insights and operational efficiency can be challenging.

Why it’s a pain point:

Difficulty in analyzing vast amounts of customer and usage data.
Need for real-time analytics to improve service and decision-making.
Challenges in turning data into actionable insights.

Sales Insight: If your solution offers advanced data management or analytics, emphasize how it can help telecoms turn their vast data into clear, actionable insights. Address the challenge they face in making data useful, and offer your product as a way to drive smarter business decisions and better customer experiences.

Sustainability Pressures

Telecom companies are facing increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact and adopt more sustainable practices, both from regulators and customers.

Why it’s a pain point:

High energy consumption for data centers and network infrastructure.
Growing customer expectations for sustainable practices.
Regulatory mandates for reducing carbon emissions.

Sales Insight: Address the sustainability challenge head-on by positioning your product as a solution that can help telecoms reduce their environmental footprint. Whether through energy efficiency, reducing waste, or meeting regulatory standards, this approach shows you understand their goals and can support their path to sustainability.

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Key Decision-Makers and Influencers in Telecommunications

Key Departments

IT & Network Operations

Insight: In telecom, IT and network operations are critical as they ensure the infrastructure is reliable and scalable. Decision-makers here prioritize performance, security, and solutions that can handle vast amounts of data traffic. They look for tools that optimize network uptime and automate operations to reduce manual intervention.

Procurement

Insight: Procurement teams in telecom focus on sourcing equipment and services that deliver value and efficiency. They are concerned with cost-effectiveness, supplier reliability, and long-term partnerships, especially for large-scale network projects and technology upgrades.

Marketing & Sales

Insight: This team is responsible for driving customer acquisition and retention through innovative offerings. In telecom, they prioritize solutions that enhance customer experience (such as CRM systems) and increase revenue through upselling or cross-selling opportunities.

Customer Service & Support

Insight: Telecom customer support departments manage high volumes of customer inquiries and issues. Their focus is on tools that improve response times, reduce churn, and enhance the customer experience, such as advanced helpdesk software or AI-driven customer service platforms.

Finance

Insight: The finance department assesses the financial feasibility of large capital expenditures, such as network upgrades or new technology rollouts. They scrutinize ROI, total cost of ownership, and budget alignment before approving major purchases.

Engineering & R&D

Insight: Telecom engineers work on network innovation and technology upgrades. They evaluate new technologies, from 5G infrastructure to IoT, and focus on technical feasibility, integration, and future-proofing the network.

Seniority Level

C-level Executives (e.g., CTO, CFO)

Insight: Telecom C-suite executives make strategic, high-impact decisions. They focus on long-term investments that will enhance network capabilities, expand market reach, and drive growth. They also consider regulatory compliance, risk management, and sustainability when making large technology investments.

Vice Presidents (VP)

Insight: VPs oversee major departments like operations, technology, or finance. They are heavily involved in selecting solutions that align with corporate strategy and have a direct impact on department performance, focusing on scalability and cost-effectiveness.

Directors

Insight: Directors manage day-to-day departmental operations and are typically involved in evaluating vendors and recommending solutions. They focus on practical implementation and how new solutions will improve workflows and meet team objectives.

Managers

Insight: Managers initiate purchasing decisions based on operational needs and challenges. They are key influencers in the buying process, offering insights into specific issues like network performance, customer satisfaction, or cost control.

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Buying Processes and Behaviors in Telecoms

Procurement-driven decision-making

Telecom companies often have complex procurement processes due to their need for large-scale infrastructure and services. Decisions are not made lightly and typically require input from multiple stakeholders.

High-value contracts and equipment lead to long evaluation periods.
Telecom companies rely on RFPs (Request for Proposals) to ensure competitive pricing and solutions.
They often have procurement teams that vet suppliers thoroughly before approving any deals.

How to leverage: Get familiar with the telecom procurement cycle and build relationships with procurement teams early. Tailor your pitch to meet RFP requirements, and highlight how your solution offers long-term value. Be ready for negotiations and provide detailed product information that addresses their pain points. This will show you’re prepared to align with their strict processes.

Technical and operational complexity

Telecoms work with highly complex technology, from hardware infrastructure to software platforms, meaning they need solutions that integrate smoothly into their existing systems.

New technology must be compatible with their current infrastructure.
Telecoms are concerned about scalability, future-proofing, and minimal operational disruption.
They prioritize vendors who can offer ongoing technical support.

How to leverage: When speaking to telecom clients, emphasize how your solution integrates with their existing tech and supports scalability. Be ready to offer ongoing support, training, and customization options. Clear communication on how you’ll handle implementation and reduce disruption will make you stand out.

Long-term partnership focus

Telecom companies typically look for vendors who can be reliable, long-term partners rather than just one-time suppliers. Trust and proven experience matter.

Contracts are often multi-year, so reliability and track record are key decision drivers.
They value a vendor’s ability to evolve with them as new technologies emerge.
Strong post-sales support and maintenance are critical.

How to leverage: Position yourself as a long-term partner by emphasizing your stability, past success with similar clients, and commitment to innovation. Showcase case studies, and highlight how you can support them over time with updates or service adjustments as their needs change. Be proactive about offering ongoing support.

Risk aversion and compliance

Telecom companies are highly regulated and cautious about new investments or changes that could disrupt service or put them at risk of non-compliance.

They are concerned about regulatory compliance, security, and data privacy.
Changes to infrastructure can pose operational risks, so decisions are made carefully.
Vendors must demonstrate that they meet compliance standards and minimize risks.

How to leverage: Address their concerns head-on by showing how your solution is compliant with industry regulations and can help them reduce operational risks. Provide documentation or certifications to ease their worries about security and compliance. Be transparent about how your solution mitigates potential risks and maintains stability.

Cost consciousness and ROI focus

Telecom companies are cost-conscious and heavily focused on ROI, particularly when it comes to large capital expenditures like network upgrades or new technology investments.

They are under constant pressure to optimize costs while maintaining service quality.
Any investment must show a clear path to ROI, whether through cost savings or revenue growth.
Telecoms expect transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

How to leverage: Focus on how your solution can help them reduce costs, improve efficiencies, or generate new revenue streams. Provide clear financial models or case studies that demonstrate ROI. Offering flexible pricing models or performance-based contracts can also give you an edge in these discussions.

Stakeholder-led decision processes

In large telecoms, multiple stakeholders from different departments are involved in purchasing decisions, including IT, operations, finance, and legal teams.

Decision-making is often decentralized and requires the approval of various departments.
Different stakeholders have different priorities—some may focus on technical fit, others on financial impact.
Internal consensus-building can slow the decision process.

How to leverage: You need to be ready to address the needs of different stakeholders. Tailor your messaging to resonate with IT professionals, financial officers, and procurement teams alike. Offer materials like white papers or case studies that speak to each department’s specific concerns. Be patient, as this process can take time, and always stay in touch with your key contacts.

Emphasis on innovation

The telecom industry is highly competitive and rapidly evolving, so companies are always on the lookout for innovative solutions that give them a technological edge.

Telecoms are quick to adopt new technologies that improve efficiency or enhance customer service.
They value vendors who can keep them ahead of the curve with cutting-edge solutions.
They may be more open to risk if they see strong innovative potential.

How to leverage: Position your product as innovative and forward-thinking, and demonstrate how it can give them a competitive advantage. Share success stories or examples of how your tech has disrupted similar industries. Highlight any R&D efforts or new product features you have on the horizon that will appeal to their need for innovation.

Global scale and complex supply chains

Many telecom companies operate on a global scale, which requires them to manage complex supply chains and services across multiple countries.

Telecoms often deal with multi-vendor environments and global logistics.
They need solutions that can be deployed and supported in various regions.
They look for vendors with a strong global presence and experience in cross-border operations.

How to leverage: If your company has a global footprint, make sure to emphasize this in your conversations. Highlight your experience working in multiple regions and how you can support their operations worldwide. Offer flexible solutions that accommodate different markets and regulations, which will reassure them you understand the complexity of their needs.

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Prospecting Tips for Selling to Telecommunications Companies

Understand the push for digital transformation

Telecommunications is rapidly evolving, with digital transformation initiatives a top priority for most companies. Telcos are investing in advanced technologies like 5G, IoT, and cloud infrastructure to stay competitive. When prospecting, acknowledge their need to innovate and how your solution can help them modernize their services and reduce operational costs.

Tip: Highlight how your product or service can support their digital transformation goals, whether it’s through better infrastructure management, enhanced customer experience, or faster time-to-market for new services.

Address the challenge of customer retention

Telecommunications companies face high customer churn due to intense competition. Telcos are constantly seeking ways to improve customer experience, offer personalized services, and increase loyalty. If your product can help enhance customer satisfaction or streamline customer service, make this a key selling point.

Tip: Position your solution as a tool that helps telcos retain customers by improving the end-user experience. Share examples of how you’ve helped other clients reduce churn or boost engagement.

Emphasize scalability and reliability

Telecom networks must be robust and scalable to handle increasing demand from consumers and businesses alike. They need solutions that can grow with their infrastructure without compromising performance. If your product can scale to support large, complex systems, make this clear in your outreach.

Tip: Talk about the scalability and reliability of your solution, especially in high-demand environments. Highlight any relevant success stories from similar clients that demonstrate your product’s ability to handle large-scale deployments.

Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory compliance

Telecommunications companies operate in a heavily regulated environment, dealing with data privacy, security, and international laws around communication services. Demonstrating a strong understanding of these regulations can make your outreach more compelling, especially if your solution supports compliance.

Tip: Mention any industry-specific regulations your product helps address, such as GDPR or FCC regulations. This shows that you understand their operational challenges and can offer a compliant solution.

Focus on network security

As telcos expand their networks to include 5G and IoT, cybersecurity threats are a growing concern. Telecom providers are looking for ways to secure their networks against increasing risks like data breaches, fraud, and malware. If your solution enhances network security, this could be a key differentiator.

Tip: Position your offering as a safeguard for telecom networks, especially in the context of new technologies like 5G. Offer insights into how your solution can protect against cyber threats and ensure network reliability.

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Things to Consider When Prospecting into Telecommunications Companies

Common Pain Points and Challenges for Companies in Telecoms

Start finding new prospects that match your ICP

Key Decision-Makers and Influencers in Telecommunications

Key Departments

Seniority Level

Not joined Surfe yet? Sign up to Surfe today

Buying Processes and Behaviors in Telecoms

Not joined Surfe yet? Get 20 free credits

Prospecting Tips for Selling to Telecommunications Companies

Need prospects?

Top 10 Telecommunications Companies — a guide for sales

Want to see more telecom companies?

Things to Consider When Prospecting into Telecommunications Companies

Common Pain Points and Challenges for Companies in Telecoms

Start finding new prospects that match your ICP

Key Decision-Makers and Influencers in Telecommunications

Key Departments

Seniority Level

Not joined Surfe yet? Sign up to Surfe today

Buying Processes and Behaviors in Telecoms

Not joined Surfe yet? Get 20 free credits

Prospecting Tips for Selling to Telecommunications Companies