Subscription-based software as a service (SaaS) company based in Waltham, Massachusetts
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In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by Crawford Del Prete, President at IDC, to discuss IT trends for 2025 and what every seller should know about the market direction. The conversation covers Crawford's extensive career path, the role of AI in sales, infrastructure growth, and IDC's new Tech Match product. They delve into the importance of understanding customer needs, leveraging AI for sales preparation, and the transformation in application software businesses. Crawford shares insights on successful sales strategies, the significance of mentorship, and how IDC is positioning itself for future technological trends. The episode is sponsored by ZoomInfo and brought to you by the Sales Community.KEY TAKEAWAYSAI in Sales: Embrace AI tools for significant enhancements in preparedness and effectiveness in sales meetings. Lean into AI to stay competitive.Industry Growth: Infrastructure layer investments will continue growing, driven by AI advancements, with notable 55% growth in the past year.Customer-Centric Approach: Successful companies understand and address the specific "jobs to be done" by customers, leveraging deep market intelligence.IDC Tech Match: IDC's new platform helps IT buyers with AI-assisted RFP generation and vendor shortlisting, easing the buying process.Leadership & Training: Continuous training and adapting to industry trends are crucial for maintaining relevancy and operational excellence.Use of Data: Effective data sovereignty and orchestration are vital in AI adoption for mitigating risks and ensuring data control.QUOTES"If you're a seller and you're not getting prepared for meetings with AI, you're going to get screamed at.""Michael Dell has an uncanny ability to capitalize on industry transitions effectively.""Technology has reinvented itself five times since I started. You gotta love that transition to keep up.""Companies that use IDC services effectively are those that deeply understand customer problems."Find out more about Crawford Del Prete through the link/s below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/crawford-del-prete-082221/This episode is sponsored by ZoomInfo, the GTM Platform sponsor of the Sales Community. ZoomInfo is the go-to-market platform that helps businesses find, acquire and grow their customers. Businesses use ZoomInfo data and platform to increase efficiency, align sales and marketing teams, and consolidate technology stacks.
Today on the pod, our very own Andrew Riesenfeld, COO of GTM here at ZoomInfo.We explore how Andrew scaled revenue operations at DocuSign, why outbound is broken, and how AI is reshaping sales efficiency at ZoomInfo, and for our customers. In this episode, you'll learn:Why outbound is broken—and how to fix it with signal-based sellingHow to build scalable sales playbooks that actually workWhy a “golden record” is critical for data-driven sales successHow AI is transforming sales forecasting and improving sales efficiencyAndrew shares tactical insights from leading revenue teams at some of the world's top companies - and why the future of sales is all about precision and personalization.For more from ZI Labs, visit www.zoominfo.com/labs Ben on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bensalzman Millie on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/milliebeetham
Gabe Lullo is the CEO of Alleyoop, a sales development agency working with industry giants such as ZoomInfo, Salesloft, and Adobe. He has trained over 8,000 salespeople across diverse businesses and, during his tenure at Alleyoop, he has personally hired and managed more than 1,500 SDRs. With over two decades of experience in sales, marketing, and executive recruitment, his strategies have significantly driven Alleyoop's growth and shaped its corporate culture. Beyond his career accomplishments, Gabe graduated from the Barney School of Business at the University of Hartford and his leadership ethos is rooted in cultivating environments that prioritize both professional development and individual success. What you will learn Why great salespeople don't always sound like salespeople—and how authenticity wins. How AI tools are being used in sales for real-time call scoring, objection handling, and personalized prospect research. Why content + cold calls is the winning combo in modern sales (and why email is losing power). How LinkedIn content builds social proof—and what not to do when connecting with potential clients. How Gabe built a successful sales agency by spotting a gap in lead generation and training SDRs with AI-powered support.
You're not buying a list of names. Or a database. Or a stack of resumes. At least, you shouldn't be. But somewhere along the way, a lot of buyers got sold the idea that “access” is still the value. It's not. Ever since LinkedIn, Zoominfo, and countless contact info clones came around, everyone has access. What actually matters? Judgment. Influence. Customization. Accepted offers. You know, real recruiting. Jeff Smith and James Hornick break down what companies think they're paying for versus what actually moves the needle in The 10 Minute Talent Rant, Episode 108, “What Are You Actually Buying From Your Recruiter?”
What does it take to build a culture of excellence in 2025? From AI and other emerging technologies to building go-to-market teams from the ground up, it can be difficult to separate the signal from the noise. In this panel discussion, we chat with James Roth, CRO at ZoomInfo; Matt DeLauro, President at SEON; and Kyle Norton, CRO at Owner.com, to explore how organizations can build and scale high-performing GTM teams.
Send us a textDebbie Reynolds “The Data Diva” talks to Lawrence Gentilello, CEO and Founder of Optery, a company dedicated to removing personal data from online databases to enhance privacy and security for individuals and businesses. We discuss his career journey, beginning with his early work in the data industry at BlueKai, a firm specializing in collecting intent and purchase data for targeted advertising. He discusses how the industry evolved from simple ad personalization into a vast ecosystem where personal data is used in ways that can pose risks to individuals. His decision to launch Optery in 2020 was influenced by both his professional experience and a personal incident in which criminals used publicly available information to create fraudulent IDs in his and his wife's names.Debbie and Lawrence examine the hidden world of data brokers—companies that gather, package, and sell personal information without individuals' direct knowledge or consent. Lawrence describes how these brokers operate across different sectors, from advertising and email prospecting to risk analytics and law enforcement databases. He highlights the difficulty individuals face in protecting their information, as the average person has around 100 exposed online profiles, making them vulnerable to identity theft, cyberattacks, and even physical security threats.The discussion also covers emerging threats, including the rise of AI-native data brokers—companies that use artificial intelligence to automate the collection and sale of personal data at an even greater scale. Lawrence describes how these firms often operate without transparency and avoid legal disclosure, making it harder for individuals to track how their information is being used. He also references a recent incident involving the Russian ransomware gang Black Basta, where leaked internal communications revealed that cybercriminals were using data broker services like ZoomInfo and RocketReach to research and target victims.Debbie and Lawrence explore the real-world consequences of unchecked data sharing, including phishing scams, cyberattacks, and even physical harm. They discuss how executives, government officials, and everyday individuals become targets due to the ease of accessing their personal data online. Lawrence explains how Optery's services help address these risks through deep-crawling search technology, before-and-after screenshot verification, and automated monthly scans that continuously remove exposed information.Lawrence outlines his vision for improving privacy protections. He advocates for a standardized set of privacy laws across the U.S., stronger enforcement against data brokers that fail to comply with regulations, and the inclusion of authorized agent provisions in all privacy laws to ensure individuals can get assistance in managing their data. Debbie emphasizes the importance of ongoing awareness and proactive steps to combat the risks associated with data brokers. This insightful discussion sheds light on the urgent need for privacy-focused solutions and stronger policies to protect individuals and their data.Support the show
Ren Systems is pioneering relationship intelligence for dealmakers, having raised $8.8 million to filter the increasing noise in today's information landscape. In this episode of Category Visionaries, I spoke with Canay Deniz about Ren's journey from a serendipitous meeting with high-level executives to building a platform that helps commercial real estate brokers, management consultants, and investment bankers extract signal from noise in their relationship networks. Topics Discussed: The origin story of Ren Systems through a chance connection with Mike Hayes (former commander of SEAL Team 2) How COVID-19 affected the company's early days when they launched on March 1, 2020 Ren's deliberate two-year product development period before active go-to-market The hybrid approach to growth combining product-led growth with enterprise sales Ren's relationship with strategic investor ZoomInfo and their complementary positioning The increasing importance of human relationships in an AI-dominated world GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Patient capital enables product excellence: Canay's investors allowed them to spend two years in "the lab" perfecting their product experience before aggressive commercialization. This patience enabled them to build something truly differentiated in a crowded sales intelligence space. As Canay notes, "Getting that first end user experience right is hyper important, even if you're completely planning on becoming an enterprise solution." Build for your actual users, not idealized personas: Ren Systems' target users are senior dealmakers who "can't be bothered to even open their email." Understanding this reality shaped their product to deliver extreme value with minimal friction. Canay explains, "The demand for solutions just value is pretty extreme with our end users. I don't have time to do anything, click a button, open anything, like learn a new tool. It just needs to work and if it doesn't work within 5 seconds, I already lost interest." End users create enterprise momentum: By focusing on individual user adoption first, Ren Systems created internal demand that made enterprise sales conversations easier. "When we have the conversation with an actual buyer decision maker, we're going to them saying, 'Listen, you know, a couple dozen people are on our platform already. If you want to coordinate this and make the roll a lot smoother for you guys, we can help with that.'" This bottom-up approach means decision-makers have often "heard about it internally already." Find your serendipity engine: Ren Systems began when Canay reached out to a friend before his honeymoon, who connected him with Mike Hayes, which led to connections with Fortune 200 founders. This network became both their initial investors and beta testers. As Canay says, "If it wasn't for warm introductions from very impressive people, nobody would have taken the time to talk to good old me." When selling to sellers, leverage their natural behaviors: Ren's sales approach capitalizes on their target audience's behaviors: "When you're selling to sellers, it's really insane how often they pick up the phone. Cold calling is an excellent way for us to build pipe." Additionally, relationship-driven sellers naturally refer others: "We talk to people, we ask, 'If there's anyone else that you can think of that could benefit from this?' And oftentimes we get back a dozen or so names." // Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co
In this episode, Simon McDougall, Chief Strategist for Privacy and AI at ZoomInfo and Senior Adviser to Bristows, discusses how AI is being regulated in the UK and around the world, its ramifications for businesses, and how regulation is likely to change in the future.#AI #artificialintelligence #regulationGlobalData report: AI Executive Briefing (Sixth Edition) Find us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/globaldatastrategicintelligenceTo understand how to use our Themes product please contact us: customersuccess.strategic@globaldata.com / +44 (0) 207 406 6764Host: Lara WilliamsGuests: Simon McDougall
Handling cold call sales objections can be tough.This is why Marcus Chan and Sara Uy joined us for an interactive session on mastering objection handling.Through live role-plays and audience-chosen scenarios, learn proven frameworks for turning common pushback into productive conversations. Walk away with a solid grasp of how to handle all kinds of objections that come your way.You'll Learn:How to turn "not interested" into meaningful dialogueWays to handle pricing and competition objectionsStrategies for navigating gatekeepers effectivelyThe Speakers: Leslie Douglas, Sara Uy and Marcus ChanIf you want to catch The Daily Sales Show live, join hereFollow Sell Better to get the latest actionable tactics from sales pros at the top of their gameExplore our YouTube ChannelThank you to our sponsors: ZoomInfo
In the latest episode of Technology Reseller News, Doug Green sits down with Jeffrey Fidelman, CEO and founder of Fidelman & Company, to discuss an innovative approach to fundraising—Fundraise-as-a-Service (FaaS). The Evolution of Fidelman & Company Founded in 2015, Fidelman & Company initially provided consulting services for early-stage companies, helping them prepare investor materials, financial models, and capital structures. As demand grew, clients requested more than just preparation—they needed execution. This led to the development of FaaS, a structured service that actively helps businesses navigate the complex fundraising landscape. How FaaS Works FaaS streamlines and systematizes investor outreach, ensuring companies connect with qualified investors through a methodical, data-driven process. The service operates in two tiers: Self-Service: Clients access Fidelman & Co.'s proprietary database and systems but handle outreach independently. Full-Service: A dedicated analyst manages all outreach, sequencing investor communications, personalizing engagements, and setting up meetings. Fidelman emphasizes that fundraising is not a numbers game but an efficiency game—increasing conversion rates rather than blindly reaching out to more investors. Making High-Level Fundraising Accessible Many smaller companies struggle with fundraising due to high costs and limited access to key resources. Fidelman & Co. absorbs the costs of premium tools like PitchBook and ZoomInfo—subscriptions that often exceed $125K annually—and provides clients month-to-month access without long-term commitments. Key Benefits of FaaS: Curated investor outreach based on industry, funding stage, and interest. Structured follow-up systems that ensure consistency. Performance-based incentives for analysts, ensuring high-quality engagement. Transparency & flexibility—no six- or 12-month lock-ins. A Personalized Approach to Fundraising Unlike traditional advisory firms, Fidelman & Co. remains hands-on, offering weekly strategy meetings and tailored investor engagement. AI plays a supporting role, but human expertise drives the process. For companies considering fundraising, FaaS offers a scalable, high-touch solution that levels the playing field for startups and growing businesses. Learn More Interested companies can explore Fidelman & Company's services at fidelmanco.com or contact Jeffrey Fidelman directly at jeffrey@fidelmanco.com. For founders looking to raise capital without the complexity—FaaS might be the game-changer they need.
What makes prospects actually respond to cold outreach?In this show, Nikki Lang, Enterprise AE at Deel, shared the strategies behind her biggest deal-winning messages. Learn her proven 5-sentence formula, discover how to leverage LinkedIn effectively, and find out when (and how) to use AI in your prospecting.Watch Nikki as she reveals how to create concise, clear, and impactful messages that consistently engage prospects.You'll Learn:How to write messages that capture attention instantlyWays to leverage LinkedIn for maximum engagementStrategies for using AI to enhance your prospectingThe Speakers: James Buckley and Nikki LangIf you want to catch The Daily Sales Show live, join hereFollow Sell Better to get the latest actionable tactics from sales pros at the top of their gameExplore our YouTube ChannelThank you to our sponsors: ZoomInfo
Justin Chi has booked thousands of outbound meetings for his clients.He's tested hundreds of outbound list-building strategies and he joined us to share the top strategies that almost anyone can use – regardless of what you sell.Watch and get the step-by-step list building process that Justin uses to book thousands of meetings each year.You'll Learn:Why list building is the #1 strategy for SDRsThe top signal-based lead lists everyone should know how to buildWhat tools everyone should know for list buildingThe Speakers: Jed Mahrle and Justin ChiIf you want to catch The Daily Sales Show live, join hereFollow Sell Better to get the latest actionable tactics from sales pros at the top of their gameExplore our YouTube ChannelThank you to our sponsors: ZoomInfo
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of signal-based selling and how it's revolutionizing the sales landscape. Join us as we discuss the evolution of signal-based selling, the top signals you should be tracking, and how AI and automation are transforming the way we approach sales and marketing.Key Topics Covered:- The evolution of signal-based selling: From manual tracking to AI and automation.- The top signals that 80% of people should be measuring but aren't.- How companies like Common Room, Pocus, ZoomInfo, and Apollo are leading the way in signal-based platforms.- The future of sales: Will AI and automation reduce the need for SDRs?- Real-world examples of how companies are using signals to drive sales.- The importance of creativity and technical skills in modern sales roles.
We're experimenting and would love to hear from you!In this episode of 'Discover Daily', a massive leak from the Black Basta ransomware group reveals shocking details about modern cybercrime networks, including a 17-year-old member and $28.7M ransom demands. Security researchers uncover how the group uses corporate tools like ZoomInfo to target English-speaking organizations, while internal conflicts stall their operations. Dive into the dark world of double extortion tactics and parallels to the infamous Conti ransomware leak.In medical tech, meet Mal-ID – an AI breakthrough analyzing immune cells to detect diseases like HIV, lupus, and COVID-19 from a single blood test. Discover how machine learning decodes B-cell and T-cell receptor patterns, offering hope for faster autoimmune disease diagnosis and silent infection detection. This "one-shot sequencing" method could revolutionize personalized medicine by mapping your immune system's entire history.Lastly, evolution gets a rewrite as scientists discover gene loss drives adaptation in marine life. A Molecular Biology and Evolution study shows how sea squirts called appendicularians thrived by deleting 16 key genes, enabling radical ocean adaptations and hidden "cryptic species." Explore the "less is more" evolutionary model challenging assumptions about genetic complexity – and what it means for future bioengineering breakthroughs.From Perplexity's Discover Feed:https://www.perplexity.ai/page/leaked-chat-logs-expose-ransom-TNwzdMedSOCWv34yS7HItg https://www.perplexity.ai/page/ai-tool-diagnoses-diabetes-hiv-60yD.7CfT9OBJzcTZ.LYMw https://www.perplexity.ai/page/scientists-develop-new-view-of-LQXruZGGQ1Oxdf.UzbgaJgIntroducing Perplexity Deep Research:https://www.perplexity.ai/hub/blog/introducing-perplexity-deep-research Perplexity is the fastest and most powerful way to search the web. Perplexity crawls the web and curates the most relevant and up-to-date sources (from academic papers to Reddit threads) to create the perfect response to any question or topic you're interested in. Take the world's knowledge with you anywhere. Available on iOS and Android Join our growing Discord community for the latest updates and exclusive content. Follow us on: Instagram Threads X (Twitter) YouTube Linkedin
What makes a C-suite executive stop, read, and respond to a sales message?Scott Leese and Jonathan Lister joined us to reveal the true priorities and pain points driving executive decision-making. Discover outreach messaging that instantly resonates with top leaders, navigate conversations that drive action, and position yourself as a trusted advisor instead of just another sales rep.Watch and learn the frameworks for engaging with the most challenging audience in the room, from initial outreach to closing the deal.You'll Learn:What truly drives C-suite decision-making todayTechniques for messaging that instantly grab executive attentionHow to navigate gatekeepers and build momentum toward the closeThe Speakers: Jason Bay, Scott Leese and Jonathan ListerIf you want to catch The Daily Sales Show live, join hereFollow Sell Better to get the latest actionable tactics from sales pros at the top of their gameExplore our YouTube ChannelThank you to our sponsors: Zoominfo, Vidyard, OrumLooking to up your sales skills?Sales Training for YOU: Use code SELLBETTER to save $200 off your yearly membershipSales Training for your TEAM
Want to know what really works in cold outreach today?Watch your favorite Daily Show hosts as they share the cold prospecting strategies they've refined from interviewing hundreds of top sales leaders. From LinkedIn voice notes to multi-channel approaches, discover what's actually getting responses – and what's falling flat.Also learn which signals trigger engagement, how to avoid common prospecting pitfalls, and walk away with proven tactics you can implement immediately.You'll Learn:Identifying key triggers that spark prospect engagementMastering the channels getting the highest response rates todayCritical mistakes to avoid that kill cold outreach successThe Speakers: Jason Bay, Will Aitken, Leslie Douglas, Jed Mahrle and James BuckleyIf you want to catch The Daily Sales Show live, join hereFollow Sell Better to get the latest actionable tactics from sales pros at the top of their gameExplore our YouTube ChannelThank you to our sponsors: Zoominfo, Vidyard, OrumLooking to up your sales skills?Sales Training for YOU: Use code SELLBETTER to save $200 off your yearly membershipSales Training for your TEAM
Tired of cold outreach that gets cold shoulders? Then stop flooding inboxes and voicemails with generic messages that do more harm than good.Watch outreach expert Andrew Barbuto, author of the newly-released book Top Sales Producer, to discover how top performers earn trust through genuine curiosity and meaningful conversations and how a true desire to help customers will earn their business.Andrew broke down his multi-channel prospecting approach, qualification techniques, and a 5-minute framework for securing next steps. Plus, get actionable strategies for providing value at every touchpoint.You'll Learn:Multi-channel prospecting strategies that break into new accountsHow to transform cold conversations into valuable teaching opportunitiesGet a proven 5-minute framework for qualification and meeting conversionThe Speakers: James Buckley and Andrew BarbutoIf you want to catch The Daily Sales Show live, join hereFollow Sell Better to get the latest actionable tactics from sales pros at the top of their gameExplore our YouTube ChannelThank you to our sponsors: ZoomInfo and JustcallLooking to up your sales skills?Sales Training for YOU: Use code SELLBETTER to save $200 off your yearly membershipSales Training for your TEAM
In this episode of TECHtonic, host Thomas Lah sits down with Steve Hallowell and Millie Beetham from ZoomInfo to explore how AI is dramatically altering B2B sales and professional services. From transforming sales teams into data-driven powerhouses to leveraging AI for predictive modeling and customer insights, they dive into the real-world applications reshaping go-to-market strategies. They also tackle the evolving role of professional services, uncovering how AI is streamlining project management, customer engagement, and request for proposal (RFP) responses. Is your sales organization truly data-driven? Tune in for expert insights, actionable strategies, and a candid look at the future of AI in sales and professional services.
This episode is the audio from our recent webinar on cold email. Danielle Holmes and Kevin Papili of ZoomInfo joined me to share a repeatable cold email framework to drive double-digit reply rate. Check out the show notes, more free content, and get coaching at https://outboundsquad.com
In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by Richard Hegberg, a notable figure in the semiconductor and entrepreneurial startup space, currently CEO of Aspinity. The main topic discussed is the biggest issue for startup companies, which is the go-to-market strategy. Richard shares his extensive career journey from starting at Motorola to leading various successful exits. Emphasizing the importance of early wins, he touches on the key considerations for product-market fit, the value of CEO-led sales in early stages, and strategic customer profiling. Richard also delves into effective lead generation tactics, the role of partnerships, and the significance of having a strong sales training program. The conversation offers rich insights on scaling startups, balancing compensation structures, and the essentials of building value-driven customer relationships.KEY TAKEAWAYSRick Hegberg is a renowned figure in the semiconductor industry and an entrepreneurial leader involved in multiple startups and boards, currently the chairman of Aspinity.Significant career highlights include leadership roles at Motorola, VLSI Technology, Lucent Microelectronics, ATI Technologies, and involvement in critical acquisitions like AMD's buyout of ATI and subsequent integration.Effective go-to-market strategy is the biggest issue for startup companies, emphasizing the importance of generating sustainable revenue quickly.Early stage companies should focus on establishing a clear customer value proposition and securing initial wins that are strategic and sticky, even if they are not massive in size.The importance of CEO-led sales efforts, building a strong sales organization through a combination of trusted hires and young talent, and robust partnerships for scaling.Engaging in meaningful customer interactions and ensuring all team members, including non-sales roles, are well-prepared to contribute to the sales process.Early lead generation often relies on effective use of platforms like LinkedIn Navigator, content marketing, and leveraging partner ecosystems.QUOTES"You can have the best technology in the world, but if you don't have revenue coming in, it just doesn't matter."“Product market fit is critical. If the value proposition isn't clear and easily understood, scaling becomes very difficult.”"In early-stage companies, eliminating the nonsense and having an all-hands-on-deck mentality is crucial.""I don't spend time on titles or hierarchies; whatever it takes to get a deal done, everyone must be willing to do it.""Achieving minimal viable product (MVP) quickly is crucial; perfecting a product can take too long and consume too many resources.""First engagements must be strategic and built to be long-lasting; the expense of acquiring early customers must be justified by long-term value.""Finding the right partners for a mutual go-to-market strategy is essential for early-stage companies to scale effectively and economically."Find out more about Richard Hegberg through the link/s below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-hegberg-ba627a63/This episode is sponsored by Sandler. Sandler is a world leader in innovative sales, leadership, and management training. For more than 50 years, Sandler has taught its distinctive, non-traditional selling system and highly effective sales training methodology, which has helped salespeople and sales managers take charge of the process.
In this episode of I Fired My Boss, host Dan Claps dives deep into the power of Google Local Service Ads (LSAs) for home service businesses. Dan breaks down how LSAs have transformed lead generation, explaining why Google introduced the "Google Guaranteed" program and how businesses can leverage it to rank at the top of search results. He highlights the importance of five-star reviews, quick response times, and a well-optimized Google My Business (GMB) profile to maximize visibility and conversions. Dan also shares tactical tips—like using a QR code for on-the-spot review collection—to boost rankings and secure more high-intent leads.Beyond LSAs, Dan expands on broader lead generation strategies, emphasizing customer acquisition costs (CAC) and how to measure marketing ROI effectively. He discusses the four key types of lead generation, from word-of-mouth referrals to automated cold outreach, and shares practical advice on email marketing, grassroots networking, and leveraging data sources like ZoomInfo for scalable prospecting. Whether you're a home service entrepreneur or a franchise owner, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you generate more leads, close more deals, and take control of your business growth. If you're ready to fire your boss, be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave us a five-star review!
The episode highlights the fallout of DeepSeek, an open-source large language model that has gained traction for its cost-effectiveness and performance. Microsoft has integrated DeepSeek's R1 model into its Azure AI foundry and GitHub, while businesses like ZoomInfo report substantial cost reductions by switching from OpenAI's models to R1. However, the rise of DeepSeek raises concerns about data privacy, bias, and security, particularly given its reported vulnerabilities and the influence of the Chinese government.Sobel also covers the U.S. Copyright Office's recent clarification regarding AI-generated content, stating that such content can receive copyright protection if a human significantly contributes to or modifies it. This announcement aims to address the legal gray areas surrounding AI and copyright, providing clearer guidelines for IT service providers and content creators. The episode emphasizes the importance of human creativity in copyright law while acknowledging that the subjective nature of "significant human involvement" could still lead to legal disputes.In addition to copyright issues, the episode discusses Super Ops' successful $25 million Series C funding round, which positions the company to enter the direct IT market with an AI-powered endpoint management tool. This move reflects a broader trend in the IT service market toward automation-first solutions, as companies like Super Ops and Syncro seek to enhance operational efficiency. Sobel advises IT leaders to remain cautious about efficiency claims and to evaluate real-world performance before adopting new technologies.Finally, the episode delves into the ethical implications of data usage in AI development, particularly in light of OpenAI's allegations against DeepSeek for potentially misusing its API. Sobel critiques the hypocrisy of OpenAI's outrage over data theft, given its own history of data collection practices. The discussion raises fundamental questions about the future of AI development, the legal frameworks governing it, and the potential for commoditized AI models to benefit both service providers and customers. As the landscape evolves, Sobel encourages listeners to stay informed and engaged with these critical issues. Four things to know today 00:00 Cheap AI Comes at a Price: DeepSeek's Rise Sparks Security and Bias Concerns04:31 AI Can Be Copyrighted—As Long As a Human Puts in the Work, Says U.S. Copyright Office07:32 SuperOps Lands $25M—And a Spot in the Direct IT Market With AI in Tow09:01 AI's Ultimate Irony: OpenAI Furious Over Data Theft… After Doing the Same? Supported by: https://www.huntress.com/mspradio/ All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech
In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by Dave Greenberger, VP and Head of North America at CHEQ, to discuss the intricacies of building effective go-to-market strategies for new product launches. Sponsored by Titan X, the episode delves into outbound sales effectiveness, customer engagement, and the role of culture in sales execution. Dave shares insights on leveraging sales ops, identifying product-market fit, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in sales. The episode also highlights tools like Gong and ZoomInfo that are instrumental in their sales processes. Together, Randy and Dave provide valuable lessons from Dave's extensive experience in tech sales and startup environmentsKEY TAKEAWAYSImportance of Hard Work and Culture: Emphasis on a culture of constant learning, adaptation, and hard work for successful product launches and enterprise sales.Sales Ops and Technology: Vital role of sales operations and leveraging technologies like Gong and ZoomInfo for better sales performance and forecasting.Channel Partnerships: Strong partnerships and utilizing channels are crucial, especially when selling to large enterprises.Customer Focus: Ensuring customer satisfaction and iterating based on feedback is essential for achieving product-market fit.Complacency in Sales: The importance of avoiding complacency and continuously striving for improvement and additional insights within sales processes.Coaching and Training: Leveraging tools like Gong for coaching and training is pivotal, using structured programs and methodologies.Mentorship: Value of having mentors and learning from experienced professionals in the field.Goal Setting: Implementing structured goal-setting frameworks for personal and professional growth can drive sustained success.QUOTES"The thing that separates the good from the great is just continuing to go that little extra mile.""You need a whole machine and sales ops and a set of analysts that are throwing data in your face, testing every intuition you have.""When you can go at the high range and people still spark their interest, that's when you know you start to got something."Find out more about Dave Greenberger through the link/s below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgreenberger/This episode is sponsored by Sandler. Sandler is a world leader in innovative sales, leadership, and management training. For more than 50 years, Sandler has taught its distinctive, non-traditional selling system and highly effective sales training methodology, which has helped salespeople and sales managers take charge of the process.
Eric in Lewiston, Maine, asks how to use last year's data to create and accurate sales plans and evaluate software tools (like CRMs and ZoomInfo) to make those goals happen. Sales planning is vital—without a roadmap, you're just hoping your revenue targets magically come to life. If you haven't defined clear performance metrics—like call activity, lead generation, conversion rates, or daily prospecting targets—then you don't really have a plan. You have a wish list. Looking Back at Last Year: Which Metrics Matter? Eric wanted to know which metrics from the previous year he and his team should be analyzing to inform this year's targets. The short answer? All of them, if they are metrics that matter to your business goals. Consider: Conversion Rates from Inbound Leads Speed to Lead (How fast are you following up?) Outbound Touches vs. Opportunities in Pipeline Opportunities-to-Proposal Ratios Proposal-to-Closed Deals Ratios Upsells, Cross-Sells, and Expansion Deals By mapping out how each step in your funnel converts to the next—calls to first appointments, first appointments to proposals, proposals to closed deals—you can see exactly where to focus in the new sales year. Maybe you need more first appointments. Maybe you need to tighten up your proposals so more of them convert. Or maybe you're missing upsell opportunities with existing clients. Data points you to the gaps. Pro Tip: Once you understand your ratios, you can decide if you're aiming to improve them by, say, 25% (a stretch goal) or if you're reaching higher. However, be careful not to “fix” one area and inadvertently break another. Success in sales is about balance across the entire funnel. Choosing the Right CRM: Beware of Overkill Eric also mentioned his team's struggle with an outdated CRM that's not built for strong tracking. As they look ahead, they're weighing big guns like Salesforce. But here's the deal: Salesforce is an excellent platform—if you're a larger organization with the bandwidth, budget, and complexity to justify it. For smaller teams (like Eric's with just two salespeople), adopting a massive enterprise CRM can be overkill. Zoho, Pipedrive, Nimble, and HubSpot are great alternatives for small-to-midsize sales teams. They're user-friendly, more cost-effective, and far simpler to deploy. The rule of thumb? Choose a CRM that matches your current size and selling process. The last thing you want is to waste months configuring a powerhouse system that nobody uses because it's too big or too confusing. Making Sense of “Big Data” Tools Like ZoomInfo Eric's final question was about whether to invest in a data-intelligence tool (e.g., ZoomInfo, Apollo, LeadIQ) to identify new leads and tap into “intent data.” My take: ZoomInfo: This is what we use at Sales Gravy, and we love it. It delivers reliable data, helps us expand into new verticals, multi-thread inside target accounts, and dramatically speeds up our list building. Intent Data: Tools like ZoomInfo can show you who's actively looking for solutions like yours. While it's not perfect, it can be a game-changer for prioritizing outreach to the prospects most likely to buy. Beware the Shelfware Trap: If you invest in a high-end data platform, make sure you have a solid plan (and the discipline) to use it consistently. It's easy to drop serious money on software and then let it collect dust. Pro Tip: Start with a limited number of “power users” on your team who will commit to mastering the tool. Then expand usage as you integrate it into your sales workflow. How We Made It Work: A Cautionary Tale We've been using ZoomInfo for years. Early on, we blew through a lot of money because we didn't fully implement it. It wasn't until we got serious—trained our people, integrated it with our CRM, and held each other accountable—that we started seeing results. Today, ZoomInfo is essential to how we prospect, grow pipeline,
This episode is the audio from our recent webinar on outbound in 2025. Kayla Prunier of ZoomInfo and Scott Leese of Scott Leese Consulting joined me to share insights you can use to hit the ground running and have a successful 2025. Check out the show notes, more free content, and get coaching at https://outboundsquad.com
In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by Steve Hershkowitz, the CRO of Rimini Street, to discuss the importance of building a committed culture in sales teams. Sponsored by Sandler, this conversation delves into the crucial role of sales training, the value of face-to-face meetings, and the challenges of leading a sales-driven transformation in a service-oriented company. Steve shares insights into his extensive industry experience, the significance of genuine relationships, and his goals for net new logo acquisitions. The episode also highlights tools like Clary and Zoom Info, alongside strategies such as Challenger Selling and the importance of continuous learning and training. Peppered with personal anecdotes and professional wisdom, this episode offers valuable lessons for sales leaders aiming to drive growth and accountability in their teams.KEY TAKEAWAYSCommit Culture: Emphasis on a commitment-driven sales culture where performance and accountability are prioritized.Sales Strategy: The importance of research, relationship-building, and face-to-face interactions in large-scale sales.Training & Development: Role of tailored sales training and development programs in equipping the sales team with essential skills.Tools & Technology: Utilization of advanced sales tools like Clary and ZoomInfo for data-driven insights and effective lead generation.Executive Support: Strong leadership support and cohesive executive team collaboration are crucial for achieving growth targets.Hiring Philosophy: Focus on hiring experienced individuals with a strong network and a proven track record in sales.QUOTES"Hope is not a strategy.""My goal is to make the AI tool inaccurate to the good.""If you don't enable your people, you can't hold them accountable to be successful.""We have to suit up, show up, and present our solution.""It's about profitable revenue growth, not just growth."Find out more about Steve Hershkowitz through the link/s below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-hersh/This episode is sponsored by Sandler. Sandler is a world leader in innovative sales, leadership, and management training. For more than 50 years, Sandler has taught its distinctive, non-traditional selling system and highly effective sales training methodology, which has helped salespeople and sales managers take charge of the process.
In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by David Nour, the founder and CEO of Avnir, and a 22-year founding partner of the Nour Group. David shares his expertise on leadership with five valuable tips for continued growth in the new year: 1) Executives in transition should ensure they truly belong; 2) In corporate dynamics, be a statesman; 3) Prioritize MEI (Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence) over mediocrity; 4) Revisit assumptions and zero-base everything; and 5) Leverage AI but humanize the last mile. David also discusses the development of Avnir, an AI platform to identify hidden relationship value, his journey in writing 12 books, and the importance of building meaningful relationships for long-term success.KEY TAKEAWAYSExecutive Due Diligence: Emphasize the importance of thorough due diligence and cultural fit when considering new roles.Statesmanship in Leadership: Advocate for a 'we' mindset over 'me,' encouraging inclusive and discerning communication.Merit-Based Hiring: Prioritize merit, excellence, and intelligence (MEI) over mediocrity to build a successful team.Zero-Based Thinking: Regularly revisit and recalibrate goals, assumptions, and strategies to ensure efficacy and innovation.AI and Human Touch: Leverage AI for heavy tasks but retain human elements for meaningful relationship-building and decision-making.QUOTESOn Leadership: “Just because you fit doesn't mean you belong.”On Corporate Culture: “The grass is never greener on the other side; it's greener where it's fed, nurtured, and taken care of.”On Relationships: “Relationships are never between buildings and logos; they are always between individuals.”On Talent Acquisition: “You can't get to the promised land with mediocre talent; double down on merit, excellence, and intelligence.”On AI Integration: “AI-enable the heavy lifts, humanize the last mile.”Find out more about David Nour through the link/s below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidnour/This episode is sponsored by ZoomInfo, the GTM Platform sponsor of the Sales Community. ZoomInfo is the go-to-market platform that helps businesses find, acquire and grow their customers. Businesses use ZoomInfo data and platform to increase efficiency, align sales and marketing teams, and consolidate technology stacks.
In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by Dave Donatelli, CEO of Riverbed. They discuss go-to-market best practices from a CEO's perspective and delve into Dave's extensive career across various technology companies, including EMC, HP, and Oracle. Sponsored by ZoomInfo, the episode also touches upon sales strategies, leadership, and the importance of building strong relationships and delivering consistent value. Additionally, personal anecdotes and career advice underscore the importance of perseverance, focus, and ethical leadership in the tech sales industry.KEY TAKEAWAYSImportance of Relentless Customer Focus: Dave emphasized the critical need for maintaining strong customer relationships and how showing up consistently can make a significant difference.Value of Simplifying Sales Processes: Having straightforward and achievable comp plans can drive better sales performance.Impact of Organizational Changes: Dave's experience shows the importance of focusing on fewer accounts for deeper engagement and better results. Consistency and pushing through initial resistance are crucial.Leveraging Analytics: The role of sales ops and tools like Clary to provide actionable insights and guide decision-making was stressed.Career Growth Tips: Delivering consistent results in your current role is the gateway to more significant opportunities. Self-assessment and honesty about one's performance are key.Power of Long-term Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships over the years is invaluable both personally and professionally.QUOTES"Do an incredibly good job at the job you have. That gives you the right to the next job.""If you execute well all the time, then you free up all these selling hours because one of the customers is happy with what you've done, which gives you the right to then sell them the next thing.""Focus always wins in the end.""Your best performing reps, the really smart ones, figure it out early and they go do it. And everybody else literally, it takes at least six months, half a year is a long time, sometimes nine months."Find out more about Dave Donatelli through the link/s below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-donatelli-29854825b/This episode is sponsored by ZoomInfo, the GTM Platform sponsor of the Sales Community. ZoomInfo is the go-to-market platform that helps businesses find, acquire and grow their customers. Businesses use ZoomInfo data and platform to increase efficiency, align sales and marketing teams, and consolidate technology stacks.
"Work hardest when times are best, not worst" - this counterintuitive philosophy helped Brock Boyd build a 25-year tech recruitment empire that's survived three major market crashes. When Brock Boyd started his recruitment firm in 1998, he ran his business from his bedroom in a shared house, where suited colleagues would show up to work daily - sometimes while he was still sleeping from late-night prospecting. Today, 25 years later, he's a member of the prestigious Pinnacle Society leading an international tech sales recruitment practice. Through multiple market cycles - from the dot-com crash to 2008's recession to today's tech slowdown - Brock has built Career Management Inc. (CMI) into a sustainable business while developing wealth-building principles that have given him true financial freedom. Episode Outline and Highlights: [01:49] How a friend needing a ride to a job fair led to recruitment. [04:27] Taking the entrepreneurial leap after just 11 months! [10:47] Recalling the early days: Cold calling from his bedroom while colleagues showed up in suits. [15:26] Discussion of peak performance periods: 1999-2000 and 2021-2022. [18:17] Focus on resilience: Surviving 2002 and the $63,000 bankruptcy challenge [24:22] "I work by far the hardest in the best of times" - Brock's contrarian business philosophy [27:47] Smart financial moves most recruiters miss: The "two boulders" theory [38:51] How to retire early as recruiters: The three key factors [54:56] Tech stack deep dive: What works in modern recruitment [1:03:19] Understanding market cycles: "It's like winter and spring will come" Building a Recession-Proof Tech Sales Recruitment Practice After being hired by a staffing firm, Brock launched his own business after only 11 months! He had a fascinating story of finding his way into permanent staffing without really having much of a background before starting his recruitment firm. From solo operator to leading an international team, Brock has built Career Management Inc. (CMI) into a sustainable practice over 25 years. Starting with just three clients in 1998, he strategically evolved from general sales to specialized tech sales recruitment. Here is his firm's current structure: 3.5 full-desk recruiters (US-based) 2.5 candidate-focused recruiters International support team across Argentina, Colombia, Philippines, and India Support staff handling administrative and database work Below are the key success factors that helped his business thrive over the years, through multiple market cycles, including the dot-com crash, the 2008 recession, and the current tech slowdown, while growing sustainably through each recovery. Early specialization in tech sales (higher fees vs general sales) Lean operations during growth years Strategic investment in revenue-generating tools Counter-cyclical work approach: highest effort during boom markets Maintaining core tools during downturns while cutting non-essential costs Personal Finance & Wealth Building for Recruiters A topic that resonates well with me is how Brock gives value to personal finance and wealth building for people in the recruitment industry. Most successful recruiters earn exceptional income, yet struggle to build lasting wealth in the long term. Brock has been a great example of turning his recruitment earnings into true financial freedom through disciplined investing and smart money management. He shared his mindset and strategies on how he balances his investment strategy with different instruments and risks. Below are some core best practices he shared on the topic of personal finance: Keep lifestyle expenses well below earnings, especially in good years Never invest more than 10% of total assets in any single investment Maintain substantial cash reserves to buy assets during downturns Focus on three key areas: work earnings, investment earnings, and lifestyle costs "The further below your earnings your lifestyle and spending are, the faster you're going to get to financial freedom. And the closer they are, or God forbid they're overlapped in the wrong direction, then the further away that is." This disciplined approach has helped Brock build sustainable wealth through multiple market cycles while many recruiters, despite high earnings, struggle with long-term financial security. “Working Hardest in the Best of Times” "Work hardest when times are best, not worst" - this counterintuitive philosophy helped Brock Boyd build a 25-year tech recruitment empire that's survived three major market crashes. Brock's work ethic revolves around maintaining resilience through challenging times while recognizing the role of external factors. Uniquely, Brock works hardest during prosperous times, moderately during stable periods, and least during downturns. He views this approach as a strategic response to the opportunity cost, focusing energy where returns are likely highest. This pragmatic mindset helps him stay balanced and focused despite industry fluctuations. Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide financial or tax advice; listeners are encouraged to consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Brock Boyd Bio and Contact Info Brock has served as President/Chief Executive Officer since founding Career Management, Inc. in April 1998. His aggressive pursuit of face time with the staffing industry's leading experts led him to become the youngest member on the Board of the National Association of Personnel Services in 2001. To date, Brock has completed over 500 successful searches. In May of 2000, he was featured in the NAPS newsletter for his accomplishments and vision. In addition, he received his CPC (Certified Personnel Consultant) designation in 2003. He has also produced and delivered seminars on interviewing skills (for candidates seeking positions as well as hiring managers). He has been hired to deliver sales training to multiple companies as well as consulting several companies on the process of building/hiring a sales organization from scratch. Brock graduated from Old Dominion University where he was a NCAA Division I Collegiate Wrestler. He lives in Vienna, VA with his wife and son. Brock Boyd on LinkedIn CMI (Career Management Inc) website People and Resources Mentioned Bullhorn (ATS) LinkedIn Recruiter LinkedIn Sales Navigator Prospect Ladder Lusha ZoomInfo Pinnacle Society S&P 500 Index Connect with Mark Whitby Get your FREE 30-minute strategy call Mark on LinkedIn Mark on Twitter: @MarkWhitby Mark on Facebook Mark on Instagram: @RecruitmentCoach Subscribe to The Resilient Recruiter If you've been enjoying the podcast, please take two minutes to leave a review. Your review is greatly appreciated because it helps us attract a bigger audience and help more recruiters.
Link to episode page This week's Cyber Security Headlines – Week in Review is hosted by Sean Kelly with guest Edward Frye, head of security, Luminary Cloud. Thanks to our show sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. All links and the video of this episode can be found on CISO Series.com
Feds find cybercriminal tools used by sextortion group Russian hackers hack hackers Amazon's post-quantum migration plan Huge thanks to our sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. Get the stories behind the headlines at CISOSeries.com
FBI and CISA urge Americans to use encrypted apps rather than calling, iVerify scanner finds seven Pegasus spyware infections, Japan warns of IO-Data zero-day router flaws exploited in attacks Huge thanks to our sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. Get the stories behind the headlines at CISOSeries.com
Stoli files for bankruptcy in U.S. after ransomware attack Police seize largest German online criminal marketplace FBI advises telecoms to boost security following Chinese hacking campaign Huge thanks to our sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. Get the stories behind the headlines at CISOSeries.com
Hydra Market leader sentenced to life Former Polish spy chief arrested in Pegasus spyware probe SpyLoan malware targets millions Huge thanks to our sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. Get the stories behind the headlines at CISOSeries.com
Ransomware affiliate Mikhail Matveev arrested Another UK hospital system hacked Cloudflare says it lost 55% of logs pushed to customers for 3.5 hours Huge thanks to our sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. Get the stories behind the headlines at CISOSeries.com
In this episode of Tech Sales Insights, Randy Seidl is joined by Motti Finkelstein, Corporate Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Intel. Motti shares his career journey, starting from his early days in the Israeli Air Force computer unit to his current role at Intel. The discussion covers a range of topics, including the importance of understanding customer challenges in sales, leveraging AI at Intel, and the value of long-term business relationships. Motti also emphasizes the need for IT to align closely with business objectives and shares insights on effective sales strategies, including value selling and relationship building.KEY TAKEAWAYSIndustry Relationships: Long-term professional relationships are invaluable for navigating corporate roles and leveraging collective insights.AI Integration at Intel: The primary focus areas for AI at Intel include manufacturing, pre-silicon design, silicon testing, and software development.Importance of Client Understanding: Effective sales strategies hinge on understanding clients' specific business challenges and tailoring approaches accordingly.Leadership Lessons: Emphasizing focus, execution, and discipline can drive success in demanding environments.Value of Mentorship: Learning from industry leaders can shape one's career significantly by providing insights and fostering growth.Customer Priorities: Understanding the diverse needs and constraints of business units is crucial for delivering tailored value and solutions.QUOTES"The best experiences I've had are with salespeople who understand the challenges of their customers.”"Understand the business if you don't study it; learn it.""At the end of the day, Pat is the CEO. He has to decide the right approach, the right time for the right thing.""Intel's business model involves designing, manufacturing, and selling, offering a competitive advantage by controlling more of the supply chain."Find out more about Motti Finkelstein through the link/s below:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mottifinkelstein/This episode is sponsored by ZoomInfo, the GTM Platform sponsor of the Sales Community. ZoomInfo is the go-to-market platform that helps businesses find, acquire and grow their customers. Businesses use ZoomInfo data and platform to increase efficiency, align sales and marketing teams, and consolidate technology stacks.
The boys sit down with Chloé Rada, Senior Director of Talent Attraction at ZoomInfo, a title so fancy it barely fits on a business card. With over two decades of experience (read: she's seen it all), Chloé's here to school us on how to build an employer brand that doesn't scream “we're trying too hard.” Chloé talks about her mission to snag top-tier engineering talent while rolling out international internship programs—because apparently ZoomInfo doesn't have enough geniuses yet. She champions trial-and-error innovation, which is HR speak for “we might mess up, but hey, it'll be memorable.” From aligning employer branding with people ops to navigating the workplace vibes during global chaos, she's got hot takes and strategies that actually work. Oh, and she's planning to revamp the tech stack by 2025, proving that even in HR, you gotta stay one software update ahead of the competition. Chloé also drops pro tips like leveraging employee advocacy, video storytelling, and LinkedIn (yes, LinkedIn—again) to network like a boss. If you're ready to rethink talent attraction or just want to hear someone blend HR insights with a healthy dose of wit, this episode's for you.
This podcast interview focuses on the entrepreneurial journey to transform toxic sales automation. My guest is Mark Kosoglow, CEO of Operator. Mark is a tech entrepreneur on a mission. A big mission. He's a sales expert who played a crucial role in helping scale Outreach from zero to over $230 million in revenue in just 8-years. Being part of the rising growth of sales automation, Mark realizes how too much automation and the mantra of Growth at all Costs has wrecked outbound. It's created a massive problem, which he refers to as ‘The Great Ignore.' This inspired the idea of founding an operator in April 2024. Their mission is to make outreach more human, insightful, and valuable for both sellers and buyers. And this inspired me, and hence I invited Mark to my podcast. We explore how The Great Ignore has not only created a sales execution problem for all of us - but has also fueled a much larger Societal problem. He shares a masterclass on the art of what effective sales is really all about. He elaborates on what he's done differently to build rapid traction - with buyers that stay and become fans from the start. Last but not least, he talks about his lessons learned in harmonizing work-life priorities. Here's one of his quotes "Most platforms, good advice is the antithesis of how they create revenue. So if I'm like a ZoomInfo or someone like that, I make money by people buying more accounts and more contacts. Therefore, for me to suggest something that would require less contacts and less companies would be the antithesis of what I'm supposed to be doing, which is growing my business." During this interview, you will learn four things: What sales skills to home in on to succeed in the evolving sales landscape How he's staying sane, flexible and performing better in the crazy world of building a startup in a market that's overwhelmingly crowded. How his Waitlist grew to 1,500 people within 24 hours of announcement. How building a personal brand is of value to any sales to stand out - not only top management. For more information about the guest from this week: Mark Kosoglow Website: Operator Subscribe to the Daily SaaS Reflection Get my free, 1 min daily reflection on shaping a B2B SaaS business no one can ignore. Subscribe here Yes, it's actually daily. And yes, people actually stay subscribed (Just see what peer B2B SaaS CEOs say) My promise: It's short. To the point. Inspiring. And valuable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This episode is the audio from our recent webinar on landing meetings with busy executives. We were joined by Steven Bryerton, SVP of Sales at ZoomInfo, Laura Guerra, Vice President, Regional Sales at Varicent, and Kyle Nelson, Regional Sales Manager at Varicent. Check out the show notes, more free content, and get coaching at https://outboundsquad.com
Interlock ransomware gang aims at U.S. healthcare, IT and government Canada tells TikTok to dissolve its Canadian business Hewlett Packard warns of critical RCE flaws in Aruba Networking software Thanks to today's episode sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. Find the stories behind the headlines at CISOseries.com.
Link to episode page This week's Cyber Security Headlines – Week in Review is hosted by Rich Stroffolino with guest Ken Athanasiou, CISO, VF Corporation Thanks to our show sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. All links and the video of this episode can be found on CISO Series.com
Nokia says it has no evidence that hackers breached company data Nigerian cybercrime bust arrests 130 people 200,000 SelectBlinds customers impacted by e-skimmer Thanks to today's episode sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation.
ElizaRAT hits India IT outage impacts Washington courts Alleged Snowflake hacker arrested Thanks to today's episode sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation.
Schneider Electric breached for second time this year U.S. says Russia behind fake Haitian voter video Ohio's capital city faces lawsuits for handling of ransomware attack Thanks to today's episode sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation.
Microsoft Entra “security defaults” to make MFA setup mandatory Ransomware attack hits German pharmaceutical wholesaler AEP Upgraded LightSpy spyware targets iPhones with more destructive power Thanks to today's episode sponsor, Vanta As third-party breaches continue to rise, companies are increasingly vigilant, which means more time spent on manual security reviews. With Vanta Questionnaire Automation, security & compliance teams can complete security reviews up to 5 times faster, giving you time back to focus on running your security & compliance programs. Over 8,000 global companies like ZoomInfo, SmartRecruiters and Noibu use Vanta to save time on security reviews. Visit vanta.com to learn more about Questionnaire Automation. Find the stories behind the headlines at CISOseries.com.
Unlock the power of Account-Based Marketing (ABM) and revolutionize your business strategy with insights from Kerri Martinek, head of global brand and marketing at Sandler. Discover why targeting entire accounts instead of individual leads is crucial in the B2B world, particularly when dealing with comprehensive buying committees that can include up to 20 people. Learn how even small businesses can leverage tools like ZoomInfo and HubSpot to implement ABM effectively without breaking the bank. Kerri demystifies common misconceptions around ABM, proving that it's not just for large enterprises, and offers practical advice on creating target account lists and balancing personalized buyer experiences with a broader focus. Ready to elevate your ABM game? This episode dives into advanced tactics to create impactful workflows and automation strategies using next-level tools like HubSpot Copilot. You'll hear about real-world success stories featuring high-touch campaigns and multi-channel approaches that drive impressive conversion rates and meet pipeline goals. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your ABM efforts, the episode provides valuable encouragement and resources, including free materials on Sandler's website and an invite to the Sandler Summit in Orlando. Don't miss this opportunity to harness the full potential of ABM and transform your business outcomes. (00:11) Account-Based Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses (12:41) Advanced ABM Tactics and Success (20:49) ABM Encouragement and Resources (00:11) Account-Based Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses This chapter explores how to effectively implement Account-Based Marketing (ABM) for businesses of any size. Kerri breaks down the fundamentals of ABM, emphasizing its importance in targeting entire accounts rather than individuals, particularly in a B2B context. We discuss the shift in focus from individual leads to comprehensive buying committees, which can range from 14 to 20 people, and the need for more strategic use of marketing budgets in a post-pandemic landscape. Keri addresses common misconceptions, such as ABM being exclusive to large enterprises, and highlights accessible tools like ZoomInfo and HubSpot for smaller businesses. We also touch on the paradox of needing to expand focus to an entire account while creating personalized buyer experiences. Finally, we explore the creation of target account lists, distinguishing between dream accounts and ideal client profiles based on current engagement and business needs. (12:41) Advanced ABM Tactics and Success Kerri talks about on creating effective workflows and automation strategies for Account-Based Marketing (ABM). We explore how tools like HubSpot and ZoomInfo can facilitate high-touch campaigns through emails, social media, landing pages, and forms. Emphasizing the importance of personalization, we discuss segmenting audiences by industry, role, and interests, and utilizing advanced CRM tools like HubSpot Copilot for deeper insights. We highlight the benefits of a multi-channel approach and the significance of tracking key metrics, such as conversion rates and pipeline goals. Lastly, we share real-world success stories and advice on starting small and gradually building confidence and traction in ABM strategies. (20:49) ABM Encouragement and Resources Kerri encourages listeners not to be intimidated by Account-Based Marketing (ABM) despite its seemingly complex and resource-intensive nature. It highlights that even small components of ABM can be tried without significant investment, and the worst-case scenario is that it doesn't work, allowing you to continue with other strategies. The discussion also emphasizes the availability of free resources on Sandler's website, including white papers, webinars, and summit recordings, to help you get started with ABM. Additionally, an invitation is extended to join the Sandler Summit event in Orlando on April 2nd and 3rd, 2025, for further learning and networking opportunities. The key takeaway is to give ABM a shot and utilize the available resources to support your efforts.
SaaStr 767: The Future of AI in SaaS Sales with Henry Schuck, CEO of ZoomInfo and SaaStr CEO Jason Lemkin SaaStr CEO Jason Lemkin joined ZoomInfo's Season 2 of its ZI Labs Podcast as the opening guest alongside ZoomInfo CEO Henry Schuck. Along with co-host Ben Salzman, Jason and Henry discuss the transformative power of AI within SaaS and the evolving dynamics that are reshaping the landscape of software as a service. Together they explore the intricacies of scaling SaaS companies, including the importance of recruiting and developing strong management teams, implementing multi-product strategies, and navigating emotional and operational hurdles as the company grows. The discussion also emphasizes the significance of hiring passionate and top-tier talent, leveraging AI to enhance sales efficiency, and maintaining a core Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) for profitability. Real-world examples from companies like HubSpot, DocuSign, and Zendesk provide valuable lessons on leadership, innovation, and the future of sales. A must-listen episode for SaaS founders and entrepreneurs aiming to scale their business and stay ahead in a competitive market. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SaaStr hosts the largest SaaS community events on the planet. Hey everybody - thanks to the 10,000 of you who came out to SaaStr Annual. We had a blast and big news -- we'll be back in MAY of 2025. That's right, the SaaStr Annual will be a bit earlier next year, May 13-15 2025. We'll still be back in the same venue, in the SF bay area at the 40+ acre sprawling san mateo county events center. Grab your tickets at saastrannual.com with code jason50 for an extra discount on our very best pricing. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This episode is sponsored by: remote.com When the right person for the job is a world away, Remote Talent brings the world to you. As the top job board for remote-first companies, we give you powerful tools to post your listings and reach the world's top candidates and remote professionals. Start building your dream team from anywhere—visit Remote.com/jobs today. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This episode is sponsored by: Anrok A question for SaaS finance leaders, do you know where your customers are? Anrok tracks where your sales are creating exposure, and automates tax calculation and filing worldwide. Built for high-growth software companies, Anrok protects your revenue and saves you time. Visit anrok.com/saastr to learn more.
This episode is the audio from our recent webinar on cold calling. We were joined by Megan Huston and Abdulla Casino of ZoomInfo who shared ZoomInfo's winning cold call formula with tons of actionable takeaways for both reps and sales leaders. Check out the show notes, more free content, and get coaching at https://outboundsquad.com
This episode is the audio from our recent webinar on outbound and how to land a ton of meetings in H2. Bryan Tunick and Jack Reilly of ZoomInfo joined Jason to share how to build a scalable and standardized outbound program to rally your team around. Check out the show notes, more free content, and get coaching at https://outboundsquad.com