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Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, our hosts John Kaplan and John McMahon are joined by Susan Lucia Annunzio, the “CEO Whisperer” and President of the Center for High Performance. With over 25 years of expertise in leadership and organizational culture, Lucia shares her insights on fostering sustainable growth by treating people well, the importance of leveraging brain power, and the generational dynamics impacting today's workforce. They delve into strategies for leaders to harness the unique strengths of Gen Z, overcome organizational toxicity, and create environments where innovation and accountability thrive. Tune in to explore how to unlock potential within your teams and drive profitable growth.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESConnect with Susan Lucia Annunzio.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanannunzio/Learn more about the Center for High Performance: https://centerforhighperformance.com/ Get Lucia's books: https://centerforhighperformance.com/category/books/Read the Guide on Six Critical Priorities for Revenue Leadership in 2026: https://hubs.li/Q03JN74V0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:03:08] Lucia's Journey and Mission[00:06:18] The Importance of Treating People Well[00:08:22] Return on Brain Power[00:10:17] Challenges in Leadership and Management[00:30:25] Generational Differences and Gen Z[00:33:39] The Most Rejected Generation[00:34:23] Technological Savvy and Social Media Influence[00:36:03] Gen Z's Desire for Purpose and Socialization[00:37:53] The Impact of Overprotection and Fear[00:40:21] Work Environment and Remote Work Preferences[00:43:37] The Future of Work and Leadership[00:53:30] Empowering Gen Z in the WorkplaceHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:06:56] “A great strategy without allowing people to use their brains will never maximize its potential.”[00:08:41] “Companies leave money on the table because they don't allow people to challenge assumptions.”[00:10:57] “The number one differentiator of sustainable growth... was the people in the group felt valued.”[00:13:41] “People work for people. When you look authentic, people begin to trust you.”[00:21:55] “Most Gen Zs prefer to work in person, learn socialization skills, and make friends.”[00:28:35] “Resilience comes from making mistakes, learning from them, and getting back up again. But when you make a mistake and people keep you down, you become a victim.”[00:32:32] “Ask for help. Tell your boss you want to be a star player and want to know what good looks like.”[00:38:13] “Anybody can be good. But how do you become great? That's what's going to give you satisfaction.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, our hosts John Kaplan and John McMahon dive into the intricacies of sales compensation plans with special guest Jose Fernandez, co-founder of Easy Comp. The discussion covers the primary purpose of sales compensation plans, the impact of incentives on sales behavior, and various strategies for aligning sales incentives with company goals. Jose shares examples from his experience at MongoDB, Intap, and Google, highlighting how tailored compensation plans can drive desired behaviors and increase sales productivity. The episode also touches on the challenges of transitioning to consumption-based models and the importance of clear, motivational, and actionable compensation plans for sales teams.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESConnect with Jose Fernandez.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseluisfernandez/Learn more about EasyComp: https://www.easycomp.ai/Read the Guide on Six Critical Priorities for Revenue Leadership in 2026: https://hubs.li/Q03JN74V0Read the Guide on Winning Government Contracts: https://bit.ly/3UYAOvOEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:44] Understanding Sales Compensation Plans[00:01:59] Driving Sales Behavior with Compensation[00:06:43] Aligning Compensation with Company Strategy[00:08:50] Simplifying Compensation Plans[00:12:19] Planning and Implementing Effective Compensation Plans[00:20:31] Leveraging Technology in Compensation Planning[00:27:01] Incentivizing Overachievers and Managing Churn[00:32:42] Understanding Sales Performance Metrics[00:33:49] The Debate on Sales Compensation Caps[00:35:30] Challenges with Sales Compensation Plans[00:36:46] Coaching Technical Founders on Sales[00:38:07] Celebrating Big Wins in Sales[00:45:32] The Role of Technology in Sales Compensation[00:49:01] The Shift to Consumption-Based Models[01:00:16] The Importance of Collaboration in Sales[01:01:26] Introducing EZ Comp and Its MissionHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:04] "Incentives drive behavior, and it does it in a very strong way."[00:03:09] "The first place they're going to go to figure out what they're supposed to do is their compensation letter."[00:05:14] "Simplicity is key. If they have to write it down, it's never gonna work."[00:06:36] "The number one way to lose sellers: comp plans that don't represent things I have control over."[00:31:05] "Any good sales rep, really the top-notch salespeople, are not going to your company if you have a cap in the sales plan."[00:34:41] "If they're not getting value, they're turning it off. That's number one in consumption."[01:06:53] "AI is gonna unleash wave after wave of business transformation, and we want to be part of those waves." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Guest: Jon Ostenson Guest Bio: Jon Ostenson is the Founder and CEO of FranBridge Consulting, a 2-time Inc. 5000 company, and he is a top 1% franchise consultant. Jon is also the author of the bestselling book, ‘Non-Food Franchising'. Jon draws on his experience as a former Inc. 500 Franchise President and Multi-Brand Franchisee in helping his clients select their franchise investments. Jon is a frequent contributor on franchising for publications such as Forbes, Inc., and Bloomberg. Do you have a free gift or landing page that you would like to share? Key Points: Background and Experience Jon never planned to be in franchising, but transitioned from corporate sales leadership. He became president of Shelf Genie, a national non-food franchise (custom pull-out shelving for kitchens/pantries), managing support for all franchisees in North America. Jon fell in love with franchising due to the diversity of industries and supportive business model, and has personally invested in multiple franchises and now helps others identify opportunities. Why Non-Food Franchising Many think “franchise = fast food,” but non-food franchises often offer easier paths to profitability: o Fewer employees needed o Lower operating hours o Lower CapEx investment o Higher margins, less waste, less susceptible to consumer whims Jon focused industries: home/property services, health/wellness, kids, pets, seniors, B2B services, and takes a contrarian approach by cutting out food franchises to go deeper into other industries. Why Choose a Franchise Over Starting Your Own Business Not all entrepreneurs thrive on full autonomy; some benefit from a proven system. Franchising is easier, not easy; it still requires work, but with structured support. Advantages of franchising: o Training wheels and guidance o Higher success rates than solo businesses o Proven playbook and marketing already optimized o Support from other franchisees – a built-in mastermind o Step-by-step framework helps shortcut growth and profitability How to Start in Franchising Doing independent research can be noisy and inefficient; many top 100 franchise lists are paid PR placements. FranBridge Consulting acts like a broker for franchises: o Free to work with clients o Access to over 600 non-food franchise opportunities o Matches clients to opportunities in their market o Helps narrow options from 10–12 down to 3–4 for deeper exploration o Provides funding resources, franchise attorneys, and support through the process Key Considerations Before Buying a Franchise Buying a franchise is like a business partnership or marriage. It's important to “date around” – talk to multiple franchises before committing. Success comes from following the system, not trying to reinvent it. Common mistakes: o Not following the franchise system o Thinking you can do everything your own way Territory exclusivity protects franchisees from competition within the same system. Franchises allow you to build your own team and avoid inheriting issues from an existing business. Advice for Potential Entrepreneurs Explore all options: buying a franchise, an existing business, or starting your own. Franchises offer proven models and support, making them ideal for most would-be business owners. Understanding your own style: Some are too entrepreneurial to follow a system, which may make franchising a poor fit. Guest Links: Sign up for a complimentary copy of our book, ‘Non-Food Franchising' Schedule an intro call with Jon to discuss opportunities further (no cost) About Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Download your free gift, The Salesology® Vault. The vault is packed full of free gifts from sales leaders, sales experts, marketing gurus, and revenue generation experts. Download your free gift, 81 Tools to Grow Your Sales & Your Business Faster, More Easily & More Profitably. Save hours of work tracking down the right prospecting and sales resources and/or digital tools that every business owner and salesperson needs. If you are a business owner or sales manager with an underperforming sales team, let's talk. Click here to schedule a time. Please subscribe to Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to https://podcast.gosalesology.com/ and connect on LinkedIn and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our website at https://gosalesology.com/.
Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
Send us a textEver feel like a sales call was a total waste of time? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott reveal the antidote: a powerful framework built on just four essential questions that turn every conversation into a strategic advantage.They introduce the "Strategic Flight Plan," a simple yet powerful methodology that ensures every sales call is intentional and directly tied to your quota. You'll learn to ask:"Why are we stopping here?" to avoid the easy but pointless meetings and focus on genuine opportunities."Who are we going to see here?" and "What questions are we going to ask them?" to stop flying blind and start planning for a truly impactful conversation.And the most critical question of all: "Why is that information you are after important?"—the secret to tying every detail back to a bigger business outcome.This isn't just about asking questions; it's about building a feedback loop where your daily actions directly feed into your overall sales success. Tune in to transform your calls from busywork into purposeful, revenue-driving conversations.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach
Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
The transition from sales rep to sales manager is one of the toughest career moves you can make. What got you promoted suddenly doesn't matter as much as your ability to develop others. Keith Willis, founder of Core Management Training, shares what he's learned from working with hundreds of managers in pharmaceutical and life sciences companies. In this episode, Keith explains why your management title won't automatically earn you respect and how to avoid the "super rep" trap that hurts team performance. Whether you're considering the move to management or already leading a sales team, Keith's insights will help you develop others while driving results. Sign up for “The 3 Shifts that Make-or-Break New Leaders” on October 2: https://bit.ly/4nirz5W Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Core Management Training: https://coremanagementtraining.com/ Connect with Keith Willis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithawillis/ Connect with Jen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenparnold/ Website: https://growthsignals.co/
Too many dealers still believe profit is made on the sale. The truth is profit is made the moment you acquire the car. If you buy wrong, you're already on a one-way road to margin destruction. While you're sitting at the desk hoping to “retail out of a bad buy,” CarMax and Carvana have been rewriting the sourcing playbook, eating away at your margins, and taking the future of retail automotive right out of your hands.In this episode of Follow The Money, host Frank J. Lopes (President of Strong30 Automotive) sits down with Kevin Kershner of Accu-Trade to break down exactly why profit is not made at the sale, why acquisition-first thinking is the only path forward, and how every dealership needs to start running like a used car powerhouse that also sells new.Kevin and Frank don't hold back. They expose how outdated appraisal strategies, slow processes, and poor sourcing decisions destroy gross before a vehicle even hits the lot. They also reveal how acquisition-first operators win by turning cars quickly, sourcing smart, and making it easy, transparent, and fast for customers to sell their vehicles.You'll learn in this episode:Why profit is won or lost at acquisition, not when the deal is inkedThe biggest mistakes draining dealership gross and how to stop themHow to source smarter and stop buying inventory wrongWhy transparency in appraisals wins both customer trust and long-term retentionHow CarMax and Carvana changed the rules while most local dealers looked the other wayWhy every new car store must be run like a used car operation in order to surviveKey Takeaways for Dealers, GMs, and Sales Leaders:Stop relying on “retail out of it” thinking — it no longer worksProtect your gross by making smart acquisitions up frontBuild staying power by turning inventory quickly and profitablyMeet customers where they are with simple, fast, transparent appraisal processesUse data the way big-box competitors do to identify demand and pay the right money for the right carFrank and Kevin also discuss the mindset shift that separates winners from losers in today's retail automotive world. Dealers who continue to think of themselves as “new car stores that also sell some used” will be left behind. Dealers who embrace acquisition-first thinking, who adopt used car strategies, and who build their culture around sourcing smart will thrive over the next decade.This conversation isn't just theory — it's practical advice from two leaders who live in the trenches of retail automotive. If you're a dealer principal, general manager, GSM, or sales manager, this episode is a wake-up call. The old playbook is dead. The new one starts with acquisition.Follow The Money is the podcast built for retail automotive leaders who are ready to grow, adapt, and dominate. Every Tuesday at 9AM, host Frank J. Lopes brings you straight talk and hard-hitting conversations about dealership growth, leadership, advertising, marketing, sales, and culture. No fluff, no filter, all facts.Retail Automotive, Car Dealership Growth, Automotive Leadership, Dealership Margins, Inventory Acquisition, Car Sales Training, Used Car Dealers, New Car Dealers, CarMax, Carvana, Accu-Trade, Strong30 Automotive, Frank J Lopes, Follow The Money Podcast, Dealership Culture, Sales Management, Automotive Sales Strategy, Gross Profit Protection.
Welcome to another episode of GSR Place! This time, host B.D. Dalton is joined by Walter Crosby—Michigan Wolverine, B2B sales expert, and the voice behind the "Sales and Cigars" podcast with over 225 episodes under his belt. Walter's journey from fending for himself in the wild world of sales in New York City to coaching teams to boost their numbers by up to 43% is nothing short of inspiring. Together, B.D. and Walter dive into the realities of building and coaching successful sales teams, the must-have traits for high performers, and the common mistakes business owners make when hiring and managing salespeople. Get ready for actionable advice on hiring, training, and retaining the best sales talent, plus Walter's take on the most expensive mistakes you can make in sales—and how to avoid them. If you're looking to grow your business or just sharpen your sales edge, this conversation is packed with straight talk, useful takeaways, and a touch of Big Ten rivalry. Tune in and let's get growing!https://helixsalesdevelopment.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/walterlcrosby/
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, our hosts John Kaplan and John McMahon are joined by John Schoenstein, the CRO of Customer.io. The discussion dives into Schoenstein's extensive experience in scaling companies from startup stages to large enterprises, touching on key topics like repeatable revenue systems, the importance of talent, and sales rep productivity. The conversation also explores the integration and impact of AI on sales processes, how to create effective revenue systems at various growth stages, and the cultural and operational shifts necessary for scaling. Schoenstein emphasizes the significance of data, training, and customer-centric approaches in driving successful sales teams. The discussion offers valuable insights for B2B sales leaders looking to understand and implement strategies for scalable and efficient growth.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESConnect with John Schoenstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-schoenstein/Learn more about Customer.io: www.Customer.ioEmail John about joining the Customer.io team: john.schoenstein@customer.ioHow leaders are driving growth and scalability in 2026: https://hubs.li/Q03JN74V0Watch Force Management's C-Level Panel Discussion on Growth, Valuation and Execution: https://bit.ly/4p6kyGSEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:36] Scaling Companies: Insights from John Schoen Stein[00:03:41] The Importance of Talent in Sales[00:11:16] Pipeline Generation and Sales Leadership[00:16:50] Building a Winning Culture[00:18:28] Implementing Repeatable Revenue Systems[00:30:02] The Role of Data and Rev Ops in Scaling[00:32:58] Pipeline Focus and Sales Rep Productivity[00:34:09] Measuring Sales Rep Productivity[00:35:27] Regional Productivity and Investment Decisions[00:36:05] Analyzing Sales Data for Insights[00:38:35] Sales Productivity in Startups[00:40:00] Remote Work and Sales Productivity[00:41:42] Encouraging Creativity and Adaptability in Sales[00:45:52] AI in Sales and Revenue Leadership[00:49:05] Implementing AI in Sales Processes[01:02:06] Customer Engagement and AI at Customer.ioHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:05:32] “Talent matters at all levels. You want people who are competitive, coachable, and curious.”[00:08:33] “You can't own your territory if you're depending completely on inbound leads.”[00:12:54] “Patriots go to battle with you when it's hard. Mercenaries leave when things get tough.”[00:16:57] “Pride is the precursor to winning, and winning is the precursor to pride.”[00:39:57] “If you're not looking at sales productivity, you're missing a precursor to whether people will make it.”[00:46:28] “AI should be a copilot—helping reps win, not just adding more inspection.”[00:47:10] “Sellers that do not have AI acumen are going to be replaced by sellers that do.” Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Should you hire BDRs or full cycle sales reps? Mark Niemiec, CRO of Salesloft thinks companies are shifting budgets away from BDR teams. At Salesloft, they already made the switch from sales engagement platform to what they call revenue orchestration.Mark's perspective: AE-generated pipeline converts 3-4x better than BDR pipeline. He predicts the BDR role that became popular around 2012 may not exist by 2026. The economics that created the BDR boom - cheap money and abundant VC funding - are gone.Mark runs revenue for a company that serves 5,000+ customers. Salesloft has captured 5-6 billion sales data points over time. When he talks about fundamental changes in B2B sales process, you listen.Mark answers the questions sales leaders are asking: Should you cut your BDR team? How does AI account planning actually work? What's the difference between sales engagement platforms and revenue orchestration? And why do most cold pitches to CROs fail?What Mark covers:
Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
Sales legend and trainer Steve Gielda—co-founder of Ignite Selling—joins Samuel to break down what truly drives performance in medical device, pharma, biotech, and diagnostics. Steve traces his path from selling 3M copiers out of a van to leading life-sciences consulting with Neil Rackham (of SPIN Selling) and building Ignite's simulation-based, gamified training that accelerates pipelines and product launches. We get tactical fast: how today's top reps think strategically, map real stakeholders (beyond the “friendly” contacts), and use smarter questions that challenge clinical and business assumptions—not just needs. Steve explains when SPIN still shines, where Challenger-style questions raise the bar, and why role-playing strategy is as critical as role-playing the call. For frontline managers, Steve lays out the playbook: coach early in the pipeline, ask more than you tell, know when to sell vs. when to coach, and—yes—let your reps fail on safe calls so they learn to win without you. We dive into work ethic vs. knowledge, turning average reps into top performers, and the signals that a high producer is (or isn't) ready for leadership. If you want practical frameworks to sharpen your questioning, focus your account strategy, and elevate your team's coaching culture, this episode delivers candid insights you can apply on your very next call. Connect with Steve: LinkedIn Connect with Me: LinkedIn Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Here's How » Want to connect with past guests and access exclusive Q&As? Join our EYS Skool Community today!
Sales is moving faster than ever—so how do leaders keep pace without losing the fundamentals that drive real results? In this Industry Spotlight, host Kortney Harmon sits down with sales leadership expert Shad Tidler to explore how AI is transforming strategy, team dynamics, and decision-making while amplifying—not replacing—the human touch. Drawing on more than a decade of experience with Lushin, Shad shares practical insights and “aha moments” from helping organizations rethink how they lead, train, and grow in an AI-driven world.Key insights you can't miss:How AI is reshaping sales leadership, from faster strategic planning to streamlined operationsWhy fundamentals like trust, consultative selling, and decision-making still matter more than everReal-world examples of using AI for role-play training, forecasting, and workflow redesignHow leaders can free up time for high-value work by letting AI handle repetitive tasksWhether you're a recruiting sales leader curious about AI's impact or a professional ready to amplify your results, this episode offers a clear roadmap for thriving in today's fast-changing sales landscape. Press play now to hear Shad's proven insights and discover how to combine human connection with AI-driven tools for long-term success.____________________Follow Shad Tidler on LinkedIn: LinkedIn | ShadFollow Crelate on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/crelate/Want to learn more about Crelate? Book a demo hereSubscribe to our newsletter: https://www.crelate.com/blog/full-desk-experience
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Steve Waugh, a legendary enterprise software salesperson. Steve shares his journey from starting at IT resellers to executing some of the largest deals in enterprise software at companies like Blade Logic, BMC, and Medallia. He outlines strategies for identifying champions and detractors, the importance of mindset, belief in one's product, and understanding the customer's business impact. Additionally, Steve discusses the critical role of executive support in closing big deals and offers insights into navigating internal challenges within one's company. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to understand the art and science of selling large enterprise software deals.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESConnect and learn more from Steve Waugh:https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-waugh-4833b57/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on Growth, Valuation and Execution: https://bit.ly/4p6kyGSRead the Guide on Winning Government Contracts: https://bit.ly/3UYAOvOEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:19] Steve's Early Career and First Big Deal[00:04:30] Breaking into Financial Services[00:07:36] Mindset for Selling Big Deals[00:11:50] Identifying and Handling Detractors[00:22:21] Cost vs. Value in Sales[00:32:10] The Importance of Content in Sales[00:32:50] Embracing Your Unique Style[00:34:53] Believing in Your Product[00:36:39] Navigating Company Challenges[00:37:55] The Art of Big Deal Selling[00:46:33] Uncovering Hidden Opportunities[00:51:21] Mastering Executive Communication[00:53:43] Career Pathing and LeadershipHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:20:49] "You have to believe that everybody gets up and puts their pants on the same way."[00:24:26] "If a customer's constantly looking at cost, you haven't got 'em converted—you gotta get 'em to forget cost and look at the value."[00:33:09] "You gotta know who your friends are, but you gotta know your enemies better."[00:46:46] "Executives don't care how you do it—they care about the 'so what.'"[00:54:17] "If my own leader doesn't believe me, it makes it uber hard for me to accomplish it."[00:56:48] "It's a two-way street. The company has to support their people to believe they can do it, and they have to have that same courage."
#dieVertriebsmanager - VTalk Der gute Sales Ton - mehr als nur heiße
In dieser Episode von VTALK sprechen wir mit Henry Kayser, ehemals Head of Sales bei Zoom, über das vielleicht wichtigste Thema im modernen Vertrieb: Empathie. Henry zeigt, warum echte Führung heute mehr mit Kulturarbeit als mit KPI-Druck zu tun hat – und wie Sales Leader ihre Teams zu Höchstleistungen führen können, auch im Remote-Setup. Er erzählt von seinen Erfahrungen beim Aufbau des europäischen Zoom-Hubs während des Hypergrowths in der Pandemie und verrät, welche kleinen Hacks – von Walk-and-Talk-Meetings bis zu persönlichen Videobotschaften – den entscheidenden Unterschied machen. Diese Folge ist ein Must-Listen für alle, die im Vertrieb Verantwortung tragen – ob als Sales Manager, Vertriebsleiter:in oder Gründer:in. Lerne, wie Empathie dich zur besseren Führungskraft macht – und dein Team zu nachhaltigem Vertriebserfolg führt.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Meghan Gill to discuss the pivotal role of sales operations in scaling a company from $100 million to a multi-billion-dollar enterprise. Drawing on her 15 years at MongoDB, Megan shares valuable insights on evolving RevOps functions, the complexities of comp planning, the integration of AI in sales, and the importance of maintaining a robust management operating rhythm. The conversation covers a breadth of topics, including the transition to a consumption-based model, the challenges and strategies in aligning sales and client success teams, and best practices for selecting and consolidating sales tools. Megan emphasizes the necessity of detailed planning and communication, as well as the need to balance protecting the company with serving the sales organization effectively.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESConnect with Meghan Gill:https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghanpgill/Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:41] Evolution of Sales Operations[00:03:58] Field Operations and Territory Planning[00:06:45] Rev Ops vs. Sales Ops[00:08:20] Effective Territory Management[00:18:08] Metrics and KPIs in Sales Ops[00:22:55] Building a Successful Sales Ops Team[00:33:54] Deep Dive into Sales Ops Challenges[00:34:22] Diagnosing Sales Problems[00:35:05] Trust but Verify: Ensuring Data Integrity[00:37:36] Balancing Protection and Service in Leadership[00:39:51] Choosing the Right Sales Tools[00:43:50] The Role of AI in Sales[00:51:21] Compensation Plans and Their Complexities[01:01:25] Lessons from Scaling MongoDBHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:26:06] "The hardest part, to be honest, is getting the data right, because nobody has a perfect CRM with perfectly scrubbed data."[00:35:37] "Every analysis that I've done throughout my years running sales ops is very counterintuitive. It's like the fewer accounts you have, the more productive you are because you can really focus and narrow in."[01:32:06] "People with AI experience and leverage on how to do these roles are going to replace people that don't do that. And I see that happening really, really fast."[01:41:50] "Keep it simple. You want to have one, maybe two elements in the comp plan... Any more than that, they're not gonna know where to focus."
Everyone loves the idea of a packed event that fuels connections, drives referrals, and elevates your brand. But if we're honest, most real estate events flop. The vibe is off, the wrong people are in the room, and the whole thing feels like a desperate networking contest instead of a place where top producers actually want to be. Here's the truth: it's not about the headcount, the flashy theme, or how many business cards you collect. It's about the energy you bring, the quality of the people in the room, and the intentionality before, during, and after the event. When you master that, events stop being a gamble and become your most powerful business development tool. Is your event being too self-centered the reason no one's attending? What other mistakes are agents and organizations making with their events? In this episode, Orlando Real Producers and branding expert, Aaron Ludin, returns. Aaron's built one of the top five franchises in the entire company, not just by publishing, but by throwing some of the most impactful real estate events in the country. He has cracked the code on why people show up, what makes them stay, and how to make sure your events never fall flat. Today, we dig into Aaron's event formula, before, during, and after, and uncover the mindset shifts and tactical strategies that separate events people remember from events they regret. Things You'll Learn In This Episode Stop chasing the wrong crowd Too many vendors waste time nurturing “someday” agents. Why should you stop offering free consulting to people who won't move the needle and instead double down on the ones already doing business? Stack the deck A successful event doesn't happen by chance. How do you build in guaranteed attendance? Is hoping people show up the fastest path to empty rooms? Connection > performance Your job as the event host isn't to be the star of the party. It's to work the room like a puppeteer. What should you be doing during the event? Follow-up is the forgotten superpower The real ROI of an event often happens afterward. How do you capture feedback, synthesize lessons, and turn one event into a stepping stone for the next? Guest Bio Aaron Ludin is a speaker, author, coach, and owner of Orlando Branding Agency, and Publisher of Orlando Real Producers. Orlando Branding Agency, a Florida-based firm, serves thousands of real estate professionals, helping agents with client retention through follow-up systems and strategic gifting. Aaron is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing & a Master's Certification in Sales Management. Aaron is a serial entrepreneur and Hall of Fame member with Vector Marketing/Cutco Cutlery. Follow @aaron.ludin on Instagram. About Your Host Remington Ramsey is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, and visionary in the world of real estate. As the creator of "Real Producers", a widely acclaimed magazine connecting top agents and industry leaders, Remington has built an impressive platform dedicated to celebrating and elevating the real estate community. Remington is also the author of Agent Allies: Building Your Business With Strategic Real Estate Partnerships. With a passion for motivating and mentoring, he's shared stages with some of the biggest names in business, helping professionals break through barriers and reach new heights. When he's not busy being a real estate guru, Remington is known for his contagious energy, practical wisdom, and a good dose of humor—because let's face it, navigating life and business requires both grit and a sense of humor. With multiple successful ventures under his belt and a reputation for engaging storytelling, he has the rare ability to make even the driest industry stats sound exciting. Follow the show on our website, Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don't miss a single inspiring episode! Start a Real Producers Magazine in YOUR Market! Learn more about franchise opportunities at realproducersmag.com
Send us a textEver wonder what separates the good sales reps from the truly great ones—the ones who consistently meet and exceed their quota, quarter after quarter? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott pull back the curtain on the top three things elite sales professionals do to achieve consistent success. No guests, no fluff, just actionable wisdom you can implement immediately.We dive deep into three core principles:They Own Their Pipeline Like a CEO: Elite reps don't sit back and wait for leads to land in their lap. We'll show you why the best in the business act like the CEO of their own sales territory, taking full ownership of their prospecting. Learn to understand the value and velocity of every opportunity in your pipeline, ensuring a steady, predictable flow of business that you control.They Sell with Purpose, Not Just Products: Quota crushers are more than just product experts—they are customer-centric problem solvers. We explain why focusing on features is a rookie mistake. Instead, learn how to ask smart, situational questions that uncover your prospect's pain points and allow you to tailor your pitch to their specific needs. Remember, people buy outcomes, not options.They Follow Through and Follow Up Relentlessly: The final secret to success isn't just about closing, but about finishing. We reveal why the most successful sales reps are masters of follow-up. Discover how to set clear next steps in every interaction and relentlessly circle back on old leads. We'll prove that in a world full of distractions, your persistence is your most professional asset.Tune in to learn the three habits that will transform your sales game and help you start crushing your own quota.Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach
Although our title may not sound like it, this month we're talking about helping new and younger sales talent succeed in your dealership so that your dealership reaps success from their work. Our guest expert is Frank Hurtte, an industrial sales pro for almost 50 years and founder of River Heights Consulting. Author of “The New Sales Guy Project” and several other books, as well as a speaker and magazine columnist, Frank recently wrote: “Sales is the only part of your company that consistently turns cost into cash. “Is your sales team an engine driving revenue?” he added. “Or are they a herd of expense-report addicts wandering aimlessly from customer to customer like stray cats? If you're just spending on sales, you're doing it wrong. Sales isn't supposed to be a warm body with a logo shirt and a business card. It's supposed to be your sharpest weapon.” He doesn't mince words. In this month's episode, we explore the role of the sales manager in coaching and mentoring new salespeople, as well as the kind of structure needed to bring them along and hold them accountable. We also talk about communication and value – and what the new sales guy or gal needs to bring to the table with each customer interaction. Connect with Frank: LinkedIn River Heights Consulting Website Connect with IEDA: Visit IEDA Group Website IEDA Events Produced By: Social Chameleon
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Tom Heiser, a distinguished technology chairman, CEO, and board director with extensive leadership experience. The episode delves into Heiser's career journey from a sales trainee at EMC Corporation to leadership roles in multiple private equity-backed companies. Key topics discussed include the importance of empowerment in leadership, the value of persistence and adaptability, self-awareness, and the impact of authentic and vulnerable leadership. Heiser also shares insights from his personal mentors and experiences, including the concept of 'commanders intent' and the critical role of understanding and evolving within one's career.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Tom Heiser:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-heiser-83b86680/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:03:52] The Importance of Reinvention and Growth[00:04:48] Impact of Force Management[00:09:50] Tom Heiser's Management Tenets[00:23:06] The Role of Self-Awareness in Leadership[00:33:13] The Power of Passion in Leadership[00:34:17] Understanding Emotional Proprioception[00:35:21] The Importance of Self-Awareness[00:37:00] Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity[00:40:54] Empowerment: The Key to Effective Leadership[00:49:43] Commander's Intent and Leadership Strategies[00:58:26] Persistence and Determination in Leadership[01:01:05] Learning from AdversityHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:05:41] "You constantly have to reinvent yourself. What got you here is not gonna get you to where you want to go."[00:21:59] "When I told them what to do, I owned it. When they got there, they owned it. That was a force multiplier."[00:58:42] "Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."[00:59:32] "What's the difference between an EMC sales rep and a pit bull? The pit bull eventually gives up."[01:01:04] "Tough times are not fun, but look at them for the learning experiences they offer."
Send us a textOn "The Selling Podcast" we're celebrating our 5-year anniversary! To mark the occasion, Mike and Scott take an unforgettable look back at half a decade of hard-won sales wisdom, funny banter, and unforgettable guests. But this isn't your typical retrospective.In a first for the show, Mike and Scott get a little help from the future, using AI personalities generated by NotebookLM to help them revisit and distill the most impactful moments from past episodes. It was a blast to make, and the result is a potent "best of" that's perfect for both new listeners catching up and longtime fans ready for a trip down memory lane.We'll re-explore some of our most popular topics, revisit key strategies for overcoming objections, and reinforce the core principles that have defined the podcast from day one. If you've ever wondered how to apply practical, no-nonsense advice to your sales career, this episode is a powerful reminder that the fundamentals are timeless.Tune in to celebrate five years of helping you sell better, live better, and most of all... enjoy more!Support the showScott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach
What's holding your freight brokerage back from achieving growth? Lack of focus, poor data, or chasing the wrong customers? In today's episode, Dr. James Kenny is back on the show as we speak about why building a clear strategy and defining your ideal customer profile is the real foundation before you even think of bringing AI, automation, or tech solutions into your business! Jim and I talk through the three key components of a modern tech stack: predictive analytics, generative AI, and conversational intelligence, and how refining your vertical focus can drive consistent growth. Clean data, clear direction, and disciplined execution are what give you a competitive edge in freight, so dive in to discover more from our conversation! About Dr. James Kenny Dr. Kenny taught and researched Strategic Marketing, Professional Selling, Sales Management, and Third-party Logistics. During his twenty-five years at Western Illinois University, he was nominated for Teacher of the Year fourteen times and won three times. He also received the Provost's Award for Teaching Excellence. Additionally, Dr. Kenny has won two Faculty Excellence awards. He has published and presented papers in strategic planning, transportation brokerage, sales management, and professional selling. He earned his Ph.D. from Oklahoma State University. He was a four-time recipient of the McAlister Scottish Fellowship for doctoral students. He completed his academic career by winning the American Marketing Association Doctoral Consortium Fellowship at Harvard University. Professionally, Dr. Kenny has supplied consulting services to over 180 firms (Logistics, Private Equity, Software, Insurance, and Financial Services) and trade associations nationwide. A sample of his client list includes UPS Worldwide, FedEx, Trinity Logistics, Allen Lund Company, Landstar, TransCore DAT, Total Quality Logistics, McKinsey & Co., and AT Kearney. Dr. Kenny has served on the Board of Directors of the Warehouse Education Research Council (WERC). He won the 2001 President's Service Award from the Certified Professional Insurance Association (CPIA) for his Marketing Audit Program and the 1996 Outstanding Service Award from the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) for his Consultative Sales Program. Professor Kenny was presented with the 2010 Horizon Award for lifetime service to the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA).
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with John True, General Partner at Cultivation Capital, to explore the critical role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in sales leadership. From reading the room to eliminating partial listening, John shares insights on why understanding personal and professional wins is as important as the deal itself. He reveals why active listening is a lost art, how group interviews can reveal a candidate's EQ, and why being fully present is the foundation for leadership and influence.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:47] EQ is not optional—it's a core characteristic of great sales leaders.[00:01:16] Understanding personal and professional wins is essential to influence without dictating[00:03:11] Active listening, note-taking, and reading the room set elite salespeople apart[00:04:00] Asking "How do you know?" reveals deeper self-awareness in interviews[00:05:12] Group interviews can uncover a seller's ability to assess multiple stakeholders[00:06:21] Reading the political landscape in the room helps tailor your message effectively[00:07:24] Distractions kill EQ—presence is the foundation of emotional intelligence.QUOTES[00:01:00] "A big part of every interaction as a leader is understanding personal and professional wins as much as what you're up to."[00:03:11] "Active listening is about showing you're engaged—taking notes, bringing insights back into the conversation.[00:04:00] "How are you doing? How do you think you're doing? And most importantly—how do you know?"[00:07:24] "To have EQ, you first have to be here—in the moment, with no distractions."Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/the-role-of-emotional-intelligence-and-authentic-leadership-in-b2b-sales-with-john-trueEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Andy Clark, a seasoned sales leader with extensive experience in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Andy shares his journey, which began with an unexpected leg injury that redirected his career towards mastering the Japanese market. He discusses the complexities of business in APAC, the critical importance of localizing go-to-market strategies, and the common mistakes companies make when entering these markets. With anecdotes from his own career, Andy highlights the crucial elements of success, from hiring the right local talent to understanding cultural nuances. He also delves into the challenges and strategies of forming joint ventures, and why companies need to be prepared for a long-term commitment to succeed in the region. If you're considering expanding your business into APAC, this episode is a must-listen for invaluable insights and practical advice.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Andrew Robert Clark:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewrobertclark/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:04:26] Breaking into the Japanese Market[00:07:27] Expanding Across Asia Pacific[00:11:09] Challenges and Strategies in the Asia Pacific[00:19:32] Hiring and Leadership in Japan[00:32:50] Entering the Asia Pacific Market: A Strategic Approach[00:34:39] Exploring Japan's Business Landscape[00:35:29] Challenges of Joint Ventures in Japan[00:38:29] Strategies for Entering the Japanese Market[00:40:41] Building a Successful Team in Japan[00:45:47] Pricing and Market Dynamics in Japan[00:47:36] Expanding Beyond Japan: Korea and China[00:55:43] The Expat Experience: Opportunities and ChallengesHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:11:51] "The complexity of Asia Pacific is underestimated significantly."[00:17:59] "One of the worst things you can do in APJ is false start."[00:26:37] "Solid leadership and caring for your team... leading from the front and showing them what good looks like."[00:28:33] "Japanification is really the best word... blending both sides into a process and methodology."[00:31:26] "Be the same before you establish your difference."[00:56:42] "The opportunity to go overseas and work should be snatched up by anyone at any time."[00:59:25] "The experience overseas is career building and eye-opening, and I wouldn't change a thing."
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Carsten Neuhaus, a European Tennis Promotion Manager at YONEX. Carsten shares his extensive experience in scouting and recruiting tennis talent across Europe, drawing parallels between identifying potential in sports and business. He discusses the importance of long-term commitment in recruitment, the role of intuition, intangibles such as champion attitude and coachability, and the challenges of supporting young athletes on and off the court. The conversation delves into the importance of inner drive, adaptability, and the significance of maintaining balance and mental health. Carsten also highlights the pleasure and responsibility of seeing young talent succeed, as well as the intricate process of selling and embedding a brand's values within the rising stars.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Carsten Neuhaus:https://www.linkedin.com/in/carsten-neuhaus-4a929a12a/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:41] Carsten's Scouting Success Stories[00:05:54] The Journey of Niels McDonald[00:14:51] The Importance of Intangibles in Scouting[00:21:55] Challenges and Realities of Modern Scouting[00:32:48] Parallels Between Sports Scouting and Sales Recruitment[00:37:22] The Role of Intuition in Talent Scouting[00:39:57] The Importance of Team Effort in Scouting[00:41:03] Challenges and Rewards of a Scout's Life[00:44:54] The Likability Factor in Recruitment[00:52:26] The Coachability and Adaptability of Athletes[00:56:20] The Mental Game and Social Media Impact[01:02:28] The Business Side of Scouting and RecruitingHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:06:58] “He had no fear. He came in and for me, it was the first time I realized he has attitude of a champion.”[00:14:06] “It was the first time that I was fighting against my own team because they didn't believe. And I took all the risks and it paid off.”[00:18:47] “The biggest talent is the will to work hard.”[00:32:53] “The two things that we always look for when we're looking for salespeople is drive and coachability.”[00:34:22] “We show them the door and they need to go through themselves.”[00:37:40] “AI can help to find a talent, but it will never replace a recruiter or a scout. No chance.”[01:09:40] “Sometimes you win and sometimes you learn. If you're not winning, you're learning.”
In this short segment of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we revisit the discussion with veteran sales leader and CRO of RegScale, Eric Erston, to unpack what truly sets top-performing sales teams apart. From the importance of laser focus and understanding your ideal customer persona to evolving qualification strategies and leveraging modern tools to decode human motivation — Eric shares hard-won wisdom from decades in enterprise sales and leadership. Whether you're a rep or a revenue leader, this conversation reveals why success depends on where you spend your time — and who you spend it with.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:25] Top performers exhibit relentless focus — not just on numbers but on aligning activity with outcomes.[00:01:10] Teams with process clarity and metric discipline stand in stark contrast to disorganized teams[00:01:52] The “measure twice, cut once” principle applies in sales — especially in qualification and time prioritization.[00:02:16] Beyond BANT: Success requires knowing the ideal company profile and persona profile — both matter deeply.[00:03:14] Not all CISOs are equal — role scope and influence vary by industry and product category.[00:03:54] Many teams ignore the depth of the human behind the persona — a costly oversight.[00:04:16] Use modern tools (social, blogs, panels, LinkedIn) to research what excites and motivates decision-makers.[00:05:36] There's a work persona and a human persona — both drive behavior. Understand them both.[00:06:00] Success in scale comes not from personal talent, but repeatable frameworks others can execute.QUOTES[00:00:25] "Top performers are always focused… focused on what they sell, their metrics, and what success actually looks like.[00:01:52] "Measure twice, cut once — you can't qualify without knowing what success looks like.[00:02:38] "I didn't spend enough time thinking about the role of the human… I thought if you get to the exec, you're good. Well, maybe."[00:03:54] "We know how they're measured — but we rarely go deeper into what drives them as a person."[00:06:49] "As a seller, I could get deals done. But when you're leading a team, you realize you have to teach those nuances."Listen to the full conversation through the link below.https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/mastering-sales-leadership-with-eric-erstonEnjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox:https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0Check out John McMahon's book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management's Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/
In this Greatest Hits episode of Getting to Aha!, Darshan Mehta is joined by Alan Versteeg, Global Chief Revenue Officer at Growth Matters. Join them as they discuss conveying customer value, the use of generative AI, and the role of empathy in sales. Alan also touches on the future of sales and the role of sales managers.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan welcome Steve McCluskey to delve into the essentials of data-driven sales leadership. They discuss why a foundational "playbook" is crucial before implementing metrics, how to balance activity with accomplishment, and the importance of creating a simple, effective operating rhythm. Drawing on extensive experience, Steve shares practical examples, like the "Magnificent Seven" principle, to illustrate how leaders can use data not for micromanagement, but for targeted coaching, developing talent, and ultimately, driving predictable revenue growth.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Steve McCluskey:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevemccluskey/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4ZDownload the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:45] The Playbook: The Foundation of Data-Driven Leadership[00:06:12] The Three Dimensions of Sales Metrics[00:08:30] Balancing Activity vs. Accomplishment[00:13:21] The "Magnificent Seven": Learning from Top Performers[00:19:05] Adapting the Playbook to the Buyer's Journey[00:21:48] Holding Leaders Accountable for New Rep Ramp Time[00:29:45] Rock Management: How to Settle on the Critical Few Metrics[00:34:10] The Importance of a Cross-Functional Operating Rhythm[00:41:02] Why Data is Just the Starting Point for Coaching[00:44:31] Churn, Accountability, and Regretted Attrition[00:46:15] The Criticality of a Rep's First Deal[00:52:19] Management vs. Leadership: It's a Mindset[00:55:01] The Power of Simplicity in Metrics[00:58:12] Getting Emotionally Connected to MeasurementHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"I don't think that data-driven leadership really means anything without that playbook foundation.""One man's micromanagement is another man's success formula. It's just mindset.""The biggest point of leadership is the coaching aspect of it. You're not gonna read a list of metrics and be able to tell somebody what they're doing great... You have to watch the swing.""People don't leave their job. They leave their leaders.""If you can navigate that simply and, and in a, you know, through those metrics, that's so important. But then the second piece... is the difference between management and leadership."
In this weeks' Scale Your Sales Podcast episode, my guest is Leeron Yahalomi. Previously, she was a Head of Customer Success at Regie.ai. LeeRon Yahalomi is a GTM leader passionate about blending AI innovation with human insight. With deep experience in building teams and scaling post-sale operations, she's known for turning customer value into business growth. In today's episode of Scale Your Sales podcast, Janice speaks with Leeron, they explore how AI is transforming post-sales operations, why customer success must evolve into a revenue-driving function, and how leaders can build trust, inclusion, and data-driven strategies in today's hybrid world. Leeron also shares why curiosity, authenticity, and asking the right questions are key to leading high-performing, empowered teams. Welcome to Scale Your Sales Podcast, Leeron Yahalomi. Timestamps: 00:00 Embracing AI: The Next Wave 06:09 AI Call Notes for Workforce Efficiency 08:01 Reframing Work: Start Where They Are 12:25 Strategic Planning and Resource Request 14:56 Sales as Discovery Art 17:25 Customer Success Drives Future Sales 22:07 Customer Engagement Defines Company Perception 23:32 Data-Driven Customer Insight Process 27:22 Empowered Women's Presence https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeron-yahalomi-1b066819/ Janice B Gordon is the award-winning Customer Growth Expert and Scale Your Sales Framework founder. She is by LinkedIn Sales 15 Innovating Sales Influencers to Follow 2021, the Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Customer Experience Nov 2020 and 150 Women B2B Thought Leaders You Should Follow in 2021. Janice helps companies worldwide to reimagine revenue growth thought customer experience and sales. Book Janice to speak virtually at your next event: https://janicebgordon.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/janice-b-gordon/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JaniceBGordon Scale Your Sales Podcast: https://scaleyoursales.co.uk/podcast More on the blog: https://scaleyoursales.co.uk/blog Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janicebgordon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScaleYourSales And more! Visit our podcast website https://scaleyoursales.co.uk/podcast/ to watch or listen.
Guest: Vaughn English Guest Bio: Vaughn English is a growth-focused sales leader with over 10 years of experience driving revenue across industries including digital marketing, 3D visualization, tourism, and insurance. He has a proven track record of building high-performing outreach strategies, leading cross-functional teams, and closing complex B2B deals. Vaughn specializes in leveraging CRM platforms, marketing automation, and creative campaigns to engage prospects and accelerate the sales cycle. From launching national tourism campaigns to scaling 3D content solutions for enterprise clients, he brings a consultative approach that aligns client goals with actionable solutions. Vaughn thrives at the intersection of strategy, creativity, and execution, consistently turning opportunities into lasting partnerships. Key Points: Background and Path to Sales Started in theater; transitioned to sales due to communication skills and confidence. First job: selling DirecTV inside Costco, a challenging experience that taught resilience. Gradually moved into more prestigious roles, now at Fracture. Role at Fracture Tasked with building the B2B infrastructure from scratch, including identifying the ideal customer profile (ICP), creating case studies, lookbooks, product menus, and developing marketing and outreach processes. Finding the Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) Initially targeted hospitality, but realized sales cycles are very long. Exploring design firms and higher education as more promising ICPs. Higher ed (e.g., Boston College) often needs ongoing art installations, recognition plaques, etc., making them strong repeat buyers. CRM and Sales Technology Strong proponent of using CRMs despite challenges. Believes CRMs are essential for organizing contacts and outreach, launching automated email campaigns, and tracking sales activity. Sales Outreach Strategy Focuses heavily on cold email campaigns. Personalized and well-researched. Uses intent data (from sources like ZoomInfo, Bombora) to identify companies showing buying signals. Example: campaign to Ben & Jerry's using their "Flavor Graveyard" as a custom subject line. Warm leads via email before calling; cautious about cold calling personal cell phones (though interviewer disagrees). Team Dynamics and Management Style Small team (essentially 2 people); the other focuses on account management. Balances trust with light micromanagement, uses CRM visibility (e.g., BCCs, task tracking) to monitor activity, steps in when new leads aren't followed up quickly enough. Believes in hiring people he can trust to reduce the need for hovering. Challenges and Learnings Struggles with ensuring consistent follow-up on new leads while handling large ongoing projects. Building out processes and infrastructure in real-time while scaling the B2B arm. Emphasizes that real ICP identification comes through direct conversations and testing. Guest Links: vaughn.english@fractureme.com Connect on LinkedIn About Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Download your free gift, The Salesology® Vault. The vault is packed full of free gifts from sales leaders, sales experts, marketing gurus, and revenue generation experts. Download your free gift, 81 Tools to Grow Your Sales & Your Business Faster, More Easily & More Profitably. Save hours of work tracking down the right prospecting and sales resources and/or digital tools that every business owner and salesperson needs. If you are a business owner or sales manager with an underperforming sales team, let's talk. Click here to schedule a time. Please subscribe to Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to https://podcast.gosalesology.com/ and connect on LinkedIn and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our website at https://gosalesology.com/.
Send us a textEver find yourself dreaming big about your sales goals, but those dreams feel more like a fantasy than a plan? This week on "The Selling Podcast," Mike and Scott tackle a crucial distinction that separates successful sales pros from those perpetually chasing rainbows: the difference between a pipeline and a pipedream.We dive into what makes a pipedream – those exciting, often unrealistic aspirations that live only in your head. While creativity and big thinking are great, a pipedream, by definition, isn't written down, isn't grounded in reality, and often leads to disappointment rather than achievement.Then, we introduce the power of the pipeline – your tangible, realistic, and written blueprint for the future of your business. Mike and Scott break down why your pipeline isn't just a list of opportunities; it's a living document that controls the future of your business. They emphasize that if you dread certain aspects of your work, you have the power to curate your pipeline to avoid those very things, ensuring you're building a future you're excited about.Discover how a truly solid, well-defined pipeline directly translates into increased confidence and greater fluidity in your sales process. When your goals are clearly articulated and genuinely achievable, you'll approach every interaction with more conviction and adaptability.Tune in as Mike and Scott share their signature blend of hard-hitting sales wisdom and engaging banter, helping you ditch the pipedreams and start building a robust, realistic, and profitable pipeline that empowers you to control your destiny in sales.Scott SchlofmanMike Williams - Cell 801-635-7773 #sales #podcast #customerfirst #relationships #success #pipeline #funnel #sales success #selling #salescoach
Guest: Melissa Palmer Guest Bio: Melissa started her sales career by accident, but quickly learned. She enjoyed connecting a customer with a solution and helping solve their problems and protect their interests. She is very good at building lasting relationships because her intention is always honest. She soon learned the best way to truly protect the customer is to also protect the company she represents; there has to be a win-win scenario, or no one wins in the long run. In management, she can do the greatest good as she works with the sales team to do just that, focusing on creating winning solutions for all. Melissa is also very energetic about what she does, and that energy is contagious. Key Points: Career Journey into Sales & Manufacturing Melissa began working in manufacturing while studying elementary education, after passing a tape measure test at a temp agency. She started on the shop floor, moved into office roles, then customer service, sales, management, and technical roles. Melissa wanted a fresh start in sales after over 20 years at her first company, where she was often the "fixer." Within six months, she was promoted to Sales Manager due to her proactive ideas and contributions. Sales Team Development at LS Industries Melissa feels her biggest win is unified messaging—the entire sales team aligned in language, story, and mission. She took advantage of team turnover to rebuild with aligned, enthusiastic hires. There is strong support from leadership (including the owner) who models the company's values. Focus on educating the team on purpose, customer-centric values, and collective goals. Sales Philosophy & Leadership Set clear expectations for customers, build trust, and prevent miscommunication. As a sales manager, Melissa retrains and coaches. Leads by example (e.g., joining calls to demonstrate customer communication). Shows the real-time impact of proper communication. Success in sales depends on trust, not just rapport. Repeat business comes from being dependable. Sales Challenges Pain points: Reps either say “no” too fast or say “yes” too easily without assessing feasibility and avoiding hard conversations with customers (especially around timelines or product complexity). Melissa's coaching approach is to educate on the long-term impact of honesty and setting realistic expectations, and emphasize quality and ROI over speed when needed. Team Composition & Structure Melissa's current team consists of 12 people, including international, e-commerce, parts, and general sales. She describes her team as mostly “hunters” (actively seeking new business). The “Farmers” exist mainly on the parts team (inbound calls, upselling). Talent Development Melissa has successfully transitioned shop floor workers into top-performing sales reps based on drive and hustle. People who are eager to grow and win tend to excel, even with little formal experience. CRM Adoption & Usage The biggest challenge is getting reps to consistently use the CRM. Melissa was initially skeptical, but now sees it as essential for success, organization, and maintaining relationships. Her approach is to minimize complexity—track only essential data, use automation (autosave communications, recurring tasks), regular reminders, training, and reinforcement, and “Trust but verify” through reporting and light oversight—not micromanagement. Key Sales Leadership Insights Missing documentation in CRM can cost deals. Frequent retraining, reinforcement, and modeling behavior help build habits. Being transparent and reliable is more effective than always being agreeable. Guest Links: (316) 670-6283 mpalmer@lsindustries.com www.lsindustries.com www.winonavannorman.com Connect on LinkedIn Connect on Facebook About Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Download your free gift, The Salesology® Vault. The vault is packed full of free gifts from sales leaders, sales experts, marketing gurus, and revenue generation experts. Download your free gift, 81 Tools to Grow Your Sales & Your Business Faster, More Easily & More Profitably. Save hours of work tracking down the right prospecting and sales resources and/or digital tools that every business owner and salesperson needs. If you are a business owner or sales manager with an underperforming sales team, let's talk. Click here to schedule a time. Please subscribe to Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to https://podcast.gosalesology.com/ and connect on LinkedIn and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our website at https://gosalesology.com/.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by John True. They talk about the significance of emotional quotient (EQ) and authentic leadership in B2B sales. They discuss the critical skills required for reading the room, active listening, self-awareness, and authentic curiosity. John True shares insights on assessing EQ in sales leaders, the importance of vulnerability and genuine interest in helping others succeed, and the evolving landscape of private equity and AI in software companies. The conversation highlights the balance between science and art in sales leadership and the long-term impacts of being around great people and networks.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about John True:https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-true-5b9653/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:20] The Importance of Emotional Quotient (EQ) in Sales Leadership[00:04:14] Challenges of Digital Interactions in Sales[00:05:41] Effective Interview Techniques for Sales Leaders[00:08:15] Reading the Room: Identifying Key Players in Sales Meetings[00:10:02] The Role of In-Person Meetings in Sales[00:12:23] Defining and Developing Emotional Quotient (EQ)[00:23:03] Authentic Curiosity: A Key Trait for Sales Success[00:31:05] Leadership and Emotional Intelligence[00:34:40] Identifying Authentic Leadership in Sales[00:36:57] The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership[00:38:25] Addressing Turnover and Accountability[00:40:09] Assessing Candidates' Authentic Curiosity[00:42:19] The Wana Factor in Leadership[00:43:11] Patriots vs. Mercenaries: Building Loyal Teams[00:45:53] Transformational vs. Transactional Leadership[00:46:51] Choosing Opportunities: Position vs. Growth[00:49:35] The Value of Great Networks and People[00:54:41] Trends in Private Equity and Software?[01:00:10] The Impact of AI on Future Opportunities[01:05:27] The Intersection of Art and Science in Revenue BuildingHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:07:50] "Great salespeople are able to navigate and adjust their message to the right people at the right level over time."[00:09:26] "You have to be here and in the moment to truly listen and respond with intuition."[00:36:40] "Effective leaders genuinely enjoy helping others succeed in their own terms."[00:48:54] "Many people confuse position with opportunity. Long-term success comes from prioritizing quality of leadership and growth."
Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
Guest: Ben Filkouski Guest Bio: Ben graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 2018. Upon graduating, Ben worked for Goldleaf Development, a Multi-Family Developer in Dane County, where he obtained his Real Estate License. In September of 2019, Ben joined Madison Commercial Real Estate. Since joining Madison Commercial Real Estate, Ben has become a Partner with the firm, obtained his Real Estate Brokers License, and earned his CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation. Ben currently serves on the board of Commercial Brokers Group Inc. (CBG) a CRE Organization based out of Madison, WI. CBG recognizes top deals completed annually, and Ben has won Land Deal of the Year in 2021 & Overall Deal of the Year in 2021, Industrial Deal of the Year in 2022, and Land Deal of the Year in 2024. Ben is also an active member in the Commercial Association of Realtors Wisconsin (CARW) where he was formerly on the NextGen Committee and was runner-up for Industrial Deal of the Year for the State of Wisconsin in 2022. Ben is also an active member with Smart Growth Greater Madison, a real estate development lobbying & networking organization. Key Points: Entry into Real Estate: Ben initially resisted going into real estate despite a family background in it. He became interested after experiencing different aspects like construction, deal-making, and sales. Ben fell in love with real estate during a brokerage role, especially the dynamic nature of the work and helping clients grow. Unexpected Career Path: Ben originally considered a career in the arts due to a love of creative thinking and writing. He found that creativity and communication are actually essential to being successful in real estate sales. Natural Networker: Networking comes naturally due to a talkative personality and curiosity about people. Ben enjoys building relationships, whether or not they lead to direct business. He learned the value of strategic networking, focusing on a few meaningful conversations rather than quantity. He uses networking as a way to stay top of mind for real estate opportunities. Team Growth & Hiring Philosophy: Ben recently grew the team by hiring two new associates. Hiring isn't based solely on experience, personality, drive, and communication skills are more important. Ben looks for self-motivation, competitiveness, and professionalism. He emphasizes the long timeline before new brokers become profitable, so cultural and personal fit is essential. Screening New Hires: Ben created a detailed training portal designed to take 50–60 hours. He doesn't tell new hires how long it should take—completion speed reveals attention to detail and commitment. He uses early performance during training as a key indicator of long-term potential. Managing Associates: One challenge is frequent interruptions that break focus. Ben implements short, scheduled check-ins (10–15 minutes) instead of ad hoc questions. This structure improves efficiency for both managers and associates. Ben believes some level of independence should be expected after the initial learning phase. Culture and Success Metrics: Culture encourages brokers to “live the lifestyle”—be self-driven, schedule smartly, and network. The firm has seen improved success rates and retention since implementing more structured onboarding and evaluation systems. Guest Links: Connect on LinkedIn Connect on Instagram https://madisoncommercialre About Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Download your free gift, The Salesology® Vault. The vault is packed full of free gifts from sales leaders, sales experts, marketing gurus, and revenue generation experts. Download your free gift, 81 Tools to Grow Your Sales & Your Business Faster, More Easily & More Profitably. Save hours of work tracking down the right prospecting and sales resources and/or digital tools that every business owner and salesperson needs. If you are a business owner or sales manager with an underperforming sales team, let's talk. Click here to schedule a time. Please subscribe to Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to https://podcast.gosalesology.com/ and connect on LinkedIn and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our website at https://gosalesology.com/.
Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102 See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Kara Gilbert, a seasoned executive coach with extensive experience in Fortune 500 companies and high-growth startups. Kara shares her insights on the key themes and strategies that emerge during her coaching sessions with high-achieving executives. She emphasizes the importance of aligning personal values with professional goals, the power of conscious leadership, and the pivotal role of feedback and accountability in fostering growth. The discussion also touches on the challenges of first-time managers, the value of active listening, and the personal habits that contribute to success. Kara's unique background and approach to coaching offer invaluable lessons for leaders aiming to navigate complex environments and achieve next-level performance.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Kara Gilbert:https://www.linkedin.com/in/karagilbert/Watch Force Management's Panel Discussion on AI in Sales Leadership: https://hubs.ly/Q03rlW4Z0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:22] The Personal Nature of Coaching[00:04:31] Challenges and Themes in Executive Coaching[00:09:14] The Importance of Listening in Leadership[00:12:21] Self-Reflection and Managerial Growth[00:16:07] Balancing Protect and Serve as a Leader[00:25:03] Feedback and Continuous Improvement[00:34:05] Coaching Through Social Anxiety[00:34:45] The Importance of Being Interested[00:36:14] Balancing Leadership and Personal Well-being[00:37:00] Creating Good Habits and Living by Value[00:39:24] The Challenge of Maintaining Balance[00:41:13] Personal Inventory and Self-awareness[00:50:49] The Power of Accountability in Coaching[00:56:09] Engaging with a Professional CoachHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:59] "The thing about coaching is it's so personal... I think coaching's actually an accelerant to growth and to opportunity."[00:03:27] "People, when they pause can be really thoughtful and break through things that they just haven't had time to think about.[00:05:44] "The most elite people on the planet, the most effective people, the happiest people... they know their story and they've owned their story."[00:15:11] "People rarely argue with their own conclusions. And I think the greatest leaders figure that out.[00:33:20] "The more interested you are lasts so much longer in human behavior than how interesting you are."[00:45:26] "Find the things that give you energy... And craft your job or your life around those things that give you energy."
The Sales Management. Simplified. Podcast with Mike Weinberg
Feedback from Jeff Hancher's story in Episode 94 of how a sales manager powerfully impacted his life compelled Mike to focus again on...The Life-Changing Impact of an Intentional Leader. After receiving so many stories from listeners about leaders who changed the trajectory of their lives, Mike shares a few of his own — highlighting the intentional investment others made in him that left a lasting impact — along with a reminder from Chapter 9 in his latest book: Managers (particularly sales managers) take up way more emotional and mental bandwidth in their people's hearts and minds than they typically realize or appreciate. Mike concludes the episode with a few takeaways from recent conversations with senior sales leaders in tech and SaaS companies — most notably that the days of “Fantasy Land” sales management are over, and that both managers and sales reps need to stop looking longingly back to 2021 and 2022 wishing things were easier. Those days are over (and have been for a while), and it is past due time to replace fantasizing with a focus on the fundamentals. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Episode 95 with Jeff Hancher Firm Feedback in a Fragile World (now a National Bestseller!)
Guest: Matthew Freed Guest Bio: I've spent the last 20 years in sales and sales leadership, and I still find it incredibly rewarding. Most of that time has been in manufacturing and distribution, where I've had the opportunity to lead high-performing teams and work closely with customers. I currently lead a team across the Midwest and am passionate about building lasting culture, driving results, and simplifying the complicated. A big part of my leadership style is helping sellers achieve their goals while supporting them in becoming the best versions of themselves. I believe consistent habits lead to consistent outcomes, and I aim to lead with energy, clarity, and accountability. I enjoy helping people grow in their careers while building meaningful, long-term relationships with customers and colleagues. Outside of work, I still love to compete—whether it's on the basketball court or just a backyard game with friends. Most importantly, I enjoy time with my wife and our two daughters. Key Points: Career Journey & Sales Background His dad was in sales and eventually owned a business, which influenced him early. Matthew started with cold calling and door-to-door efforts, learning what real sales was versus the perception. Naturally gravitated toward leadership roles on teams; wanted to shift from individual sales to team success. Moved cities and took a risk to lead a sales team at a manufacturing company, eventually growing in responsibility and geography. He was introduced to Millcraft by a supplier contact and joined over 8 years ago; currently leads sales efforts after transitioning from operational responsibilities. Sales Philosophy & Simplifying Complexity Believes the sales team is his "customers" and supports them by removing obstacles and improving processes. Matthew uses what he calls a "Simplify the Complicated" Approach: · Sales fundamentals (know, like, trust) are still the core, despite evolving technology. · Use data and analytics to validate feelings and drive decisions. · Focus on what matters: simplify systems/processes to let sellers focus on selling. Challenges in Sales Leadership Reps often react emotionally, inventing stories about prospects. Ask clarifying questions, do a fact-finding mission, and use both data and instinct (e.g., the "sleep on it" approach). Helps reps stay grounded by focusing on facts and controllables rather than assumptions. CRM/ERP Adoption Success Successfully implemented a new ERP system that includes a CRM. Tailored the system to serve salespeople and their customers. Positioned CRM is used as a way to better serve customers and make smarter decisions. Gained buy-in by connecting usage to outcomes (e.g., customer satisfaction). Has most of his team (12 people) consistently using the CRM. Team Composition & Hiring A mix of new and long-tenured reps (some with 30–40+ years of experience). Has a team size of 12 sellers. What He Looks for in Hires is resourcefulness, values competitiveness, entrepreneurial spirit, and inquisitiveness. Matthew's screening methods are assignments before interviews, looking for how much effort candidates put into research, a sports background is a strong signal (discipline, competition), and relying heavily on referrals. Team Wins & New Business Growth - 150+ New Accounts Opened Focused efforts in specific industry segments (e.g., beverage, signage, apparel, nonprofits). Leverages repeatable success models: if one nonprofit buys certain items, others likely will too. Emphasizes selling similar things to similar customers vs. reinventing every sale. Segment-focused selling allows for scalable, repeatable growth strategies. Leadership Style & Values Clearly outlines what reps should expect from him and vice versa. Believes in accountability, honesty, and mutual respect. Sees his role as equipping and clearing the path for his team's success. Encourages feedback and builds relationships rooted in trust. Guest Links: Connect on LinkedIn About Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Download your free gift, The Salesology® Vault. The vault is packed full of free gifts from sales leaders, sales experts, marketing gurus, and revenue generation experts. Download your free gift, 81 Tools to Grow Your Sales & Your Business Faster, More Easily & More Profitably. Save hours of work tracking down the right prospecting and sales resources and/or digital tools that every business owner and salesperson needs. If you are a business owner or sales manager with an underperforming sales team, let's talk. Click here to schedule a time. Please subscribe to Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to https://podcast.gosalesology.com/ and connect on LinkedIn and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our website at https://gosalesology.com/.
Sales management can feel like adult babysitting…And if you're too hands-off, things get out of control.If you're too tight, you're micromanaging. So how do you strike the perfect balance?To earn respect, keep loyalty, and lead a top team? Watch this. I hope this helps you be the most effective, looked-up-to leader you can be. P.S. Tough, vulnerable conversations lead to growth. But you can't have them everywhere. And the industry Facebook Groups are the last place on earth you want to turn to for that… join the private, application-only community where we support each other and share our winning secrets: https://www.rsra.org/join/ =============FREE TRAINING CENTERhttps://theroofstrategist.com/free-training-centerJOIN THE ROOFING & SOLAR REFORM ALLIANCE (RSRA)https://go.rsra.org/join-podcastGET MY BOOKhttps://a.co/d/7tsW3Lx GET A ROOFING SALES JOBhttps://secure.rsra.org/find-a-job CONTACTEmail: help@roofstrategist.comCall/Text: 303-222-7133FOLLOW ADAM BENSMANhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSVx5TWX-m2dl6yuUVF05Dwhttps://www.facebook.com/adam.bensman/ https://www.facebook.com/RoofStrategist/ https://www.instagram.com/roofstrategist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@roofstrategist https://www.linkedin.com/in/roofstrategist/#roofstrategist #roofsales #d2d #solar #solarsales #roofing #roofer #canvassing #hail #wind #hurricane #sales #roofclaim #rsra #roofingandsolarreformalliance #reformers #adambensman
We're excited to welcome our first virtual guest in a long time to the Pursuit of Property Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Jenny Hudspeth from REI Sales Tools.Jenny shares her incredible journey from accidentally entering real estate as a lead manager in 2019 to scaling a team from 10 to 175 people across eight markets. We dive deep into her unconventional management philosophy that focuses on enabling action rather than micromanaging, her revolutionary approach to accountability that helps teams hold themselves accountable, and the game changing results triangle that prioritizes clarity and accountability over simply pushing for results.She also opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, her unique perspective on firing (spoiler alert: people fire themselves), and how she's now helping sales managers across the globe transform their leadership style.This conversation is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to grow from being a salesperson into a strong sales manager and leader. Whether you're struggling with the transition from doing the work to managing others, or you're looking to scale your real estate business, this episode delivers the mindset shifts and practical strategies you need to succeed.
Guest: Nick Sowards Guest Bio: Started cleaning machines in California at 18 years old at my grandfather's company. Graduated into selling machines at 19, then left his company at 20 to sell new machines. Left California in 2004 and joined Absolute Machine Tools, selling their imported brands. In 2015, became GM for Absolute, running their Chicago facility. 2017 needed a change in my life and left Absolute with joining Ellison Technologies in December 17, and the ride has been great thus far! I'm a sales manager for NE Ohio and a territory manager for Lake and 1/2 of Cuyahoga County. I was honored to have been the #1 salesman in Ellison for GP and units for 2023, with also getting salesperson of the year awards. Been in the top 5-10 ever since I started with Ellison in 2017. We have a great team in Ohio, so that helps! Key Points: Early Influences and Entry into Sales · Grandfather's machine shop played a formative role. He started by cleaning machines as a kid to earn money for things his family couldn't afford. · Originally planned to become an FBI agent, but his mother recognized his strong communication skills and encouraged sales. · A pivotal moment came when he accidentally made a $10,000 sale, earned $200 commission, and realized sales were more rewarding than cleaning machines. Motivation and Personal Drive · Grew up poor, became a young father, and was driven by the desire to support his family, including allowing his wife to stay home. · Has seven daughters, now expecting three grandchildren, further reinforcing his motivation to succeed financially and professionally. Leadership and Management Style · Leads a tight-knit sales team of three, focusing on trust, open communication, and family-like support. Believes success is shared: if his team does well, he does well. · Encourages open access; his team can call him anytime, for work or personal matters. Hiring Philosophy · Looks for motivation (expensive hobbies, family responsibilities) and coachability. · Avoids hiring “negative” people; prioritizes positive, adaptable personalities. · Uses personality assessments and informal settings (like lunch) to gauge candidates more authentically. Watches for signs of intrinsic drive, not just skill. Building Trust with New Hires · Leads by example: gave a full commission on a deal made the day before a new rep joined, demonstrating generosity and fairness. · Builds trust through action, not just words, follows through, supports his team, and solves problems directly or connects them with the right resources. Sales Philosophy · Be honest and transparent: admit when you don't know something, but always get the correct answers. · Never be a “yes man”, integrity builds long-term relationships. · Success is based on persistence, teamwork, and customer focus. Guest Links: Cell: 216-347-9566 Email: nsowards@ellisontechnologies.com Connect on LinkedIn About Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders Download your free gift, The Salesology® Vault. The vault is packed full of free gifts from sales leaders, sales experts, marketing gurus, and revenue generation experts. Download your free gift, 81 Tools to Grow Your Sales & Your Business Faster, More Easily & More Profitably. Save hours of work tracking down the right prospecting and sales resources and/or digital tools that every business owner and salesperson needs. If you are a business owner or sales manager with an underperforming sales team, let's talk. Click here to schedule a time. Please subscribe to Salesology®: Conversations with Sales Leaders so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to https://podcast.gosalesology.com/ and connect on LinkedIn and follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and check out our website at https://gosalesology.com/.
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Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102 See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/