Eight of Spades: Defining your corporate sales strategy: Crafting a Sales Process Flowchart: Visualize the stages in your sales process for consistency

Eight of Spades: Defining your corporate sales strategy: Crafting a Sales Process Flowchart: Visualize the stages in your sales process for consistency

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

The Quintessential Blueprint for Sales Mastery

In architecture, the blueprint guides turn an imagined design into a tangible, functional building. Similarly, a Sales Process Flowchart is the foundational structure upon which sales organizations can build scalable, consistent, and successful strategies. The importance of this tool lies in its ability to crystallize the sales process into a series of actionable steps, thereby providing a roadmap to success. The goal is to achieve consistency, predictability, and scalability, key tenets that enable sales organizations to meet and surpass their revenue targets.

Navigating the Symphony of Sales

Imagine a scenario where each musician in an orchestra independently chooses the tune, pitch, or timing, neglecting the conductor’s directions. The result would undoubtedly be a chaotic cacophony rather than a mellifluous melody. The outcome is no different in a sales organization devoid of structured processes. There would be discord, confusion, and, ultimately, a waste of valuable resources, tarnishing the reputation of the organization. It’s crucial to set the stage with a meticulously designed Sales Process Flowchart, which acts as the conductor, harmonizing the orchestra of sales activities to create a seamless and pleasant experience for both the sales team and the clients.

More Than Just a Visual Representation

One might argue that a flowchart is simply a visual representation—useful but not essential. However, this understates its pivotal role in an organization. A Sales Process Flowchart serves as a multi-faceted instrument, similar to a map charting the course of a river from its source to the ocean. By meticulously documenting each bend, stream, and tributary, one gains understanding and control over its flow. Such a flowchart aids in:

  • Standardization: By laying out a common framework, the flowchart minimizes ambiguities, ensuring that all team members are aligned in their objectives and strategies.
  • Efficiency: When every stage and step is defined, sales representatives can navigate the selling process faster and with more agility, thereby accelerating the sales cycle.
  • Training and Onboarding: For newcomers to the team, the flowchart acts as a quick reference guide, enabling a quicker path to becoming a productive member of the sales force.

Crafting the Masterpiece: Methodological Precision

The development of a Sales Process Flowchart is neither arbitrary nor superficial; it is a blend of art and science. The task begins with identifying key stages in your sales process, such as lead generation, qualification, and closing deals. Each stage must be broken down into actionable components like a skilled craftsman chiseling away at a block of marble to reveal the sculpture within.

Next, these stages are sequenced in a way that makes logical sense. While the sales process can sometimes be iterative, a primary, repeatable pathway is essential for the sake of uniformity. Feedback mechanisms are integrated at crucial junctures to glean insights for continuous improvement. Remember, the flowchart isn’t a static document; it’s a dynamic blueprint that should evolve with market trends, customer preferences, and organizational changes.

The Endgame: Achieving Clarity and Consistency

The ultimate goal of implementing a Sales Process Flowchart is achieving clarity and ensuring consistency. In an age where most buying experiences are shaped by how customers feel they are being treated, consistency is not merely a bonus—it’s a requirement. The flowchart levels the playing field, ensuring that each customer experiences the same quality of service, irrespective of the sales representative they interact with.

Additionally, for the sales team, the benefit is immense. When the fog of ambiguity is lifted, sales professionals can execute their tasks with a well-defined sense of direction, equipped with measurable benchmarks and a clear vision.

Key Takeaways

For sales leaders aiming to elevate their teams to new heights, neglecting the role of a Sales Process Flowchart is not an option. This tool is instrumental in transforming sales strategies into actionable steps, thereby setting the stage for success. Ask yourself, does your organization have a Sales Process Flowchart? If not, it’s time to draw the blueprint for a harmonious, efficient, and wildly successful sales symphony.

Create A Great Sales Organization series, Sales Management, Sales Professionalism, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Six of Spades: Defining your corporate sales strategy: Segmenting Target Market: Categorize potential clients to tailor strategies effectively.

Six of Spades: Defining your corporate sales strategy: Segmenting Target Market: Categorize potential clients to tailor strategies effectively.

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

The Art of Tailoring Sales: Why Market Segmentation Matters

Embark with me on a journey across the sprawling business landscape, an expanse echoing with the cacophony of countless potential clients. As vast as this sounds, CEOs and sales leaders quickly recognize a fundamental truth: their offerings aren’t for everyone, no matter how exceptional. The cost of gaining any customer, regardless of that prospect’s business, location, or specialty, risks the profitability of selling to them all. This realization is where the art and science of market segmentation come into play. This approach, akin to a seasoned sailor charting a course through diverse waters, ensures businesses traverse the right seas, leading them toward unparalleled prosperity.

In the realm of business, imagine a master tailor. He meets diverse clients daily, each with their preferences, sizes, and desires. A one-size-fits-all suit? It’s a fantasy. Instead, he meticulously measures, understands individual tastes and crafts a suit that fits impeccably. This artistry mirrors market segmentation, where businesses dissect the extensive market into specific sections, ensuring their strategies align seamlessly, much like that well-fitted suit. The effectiveness of such an approach isn’t theoretical. Historical data unveils a striking revelation: 75% of B2B firms grew their market share if they managed to personalize their sales and marketing directly to the individual customer. This isn’t merely a figure but a testament to the monumental influence of aligning offerings with distinct market needs.

However, as we dive deeper, the waters of segmentation aren’t always placid. Over-segmentation can be treacherous, dispersing focus like a ship trying to anchor at numerous ports, eventually reaching none. Furthermore, a mere segmentation without an accurate understanding can mislead, like mistaking a looming storm for a serene day at sea.

So, how do businesses chart this course effectively?

  1. Establishing the Pillars of Segmentation: The segmentation can hinge on varying criteria, be it demographic nuances, behavioral patterns, or geographical distinctions. A tech solution catering to bustling urban enterprises would understandably differ from one aimed at serene, rural family-owned businesses.
  2. Deep Dive into Data: The depth of knowledge determines the journey’s success. Harness data analytics to grasp the intricacies of each segment, echoing a sailor studying sea charts before setting sail.
  3. Strategic Customization: With a sound understanding of your most profitable customers, mold your sales strategies, ensuring they resonate with each segment’s unique aspirations and needs.
  4. Embrace Adaptability: The seas of business are ever-evolving. Thus, gather feedback and recalibrate strategies, ensuring alignment with the shifting dynamics.

However, segmentation’s influence isn’t confined merely to optimizing sales. This tailored approach weaves deeper customer relationships. Clients perceive this customized attention, feeling valued and inevitably gravitating towards businesses that reflect their specific needs. Furthermore, this clarity in approach empowers sales teams. Each pitch, each dialogue is infused with purpose and precision. The approach transitions from casting expansive nets in hope to that of expert fishermen, with each cast deliberate and confident.

Market segmentation unfurls as a harmonious blend of art and science. This orchestration is about understanding, tailoring, and fostering profound connections. The outcome for CEOs and sales maestros mastering this realm isn’t mere sales acceleration. It’s about sculpting experiences, nurturing relationships, and consistently delivering unparalleled value.

As the contours of sales constantly change, segmentation emerges as an enduring beacon. It accentuates a profound understanding, recognizing who truly holds value and optimizing strategies to serve them immaculately. In the intricate mosaic of sales, segmentation assures that every piece, every shade, and every nuance aligns impeccably, weaving a saga of sustained growth and success.

Business, Create A Great Sales Organization series, Sales Management, , , , , , , , , , , ,
Five of Spades: Defining your corporate sales strategy: Setting Clear Sales Objectives and Goals: Establish targets to drive sales team efforts.

Five of Spades: Defining your corporate sales strategy: Setting Clear Sales Objectives and Goals: Establish targets to drive sales team efforts.

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

Crafting a Resonant Sales Symphony: The Power of Clear Objectives and Goals

In the vast ocean of corporate strategy, the sales department functions much like a ship’s heartbeat, rhythmic and essential, setting the pace for the vessel’s journey. But what, or who calibrates this pulse? How do we ensure that this heart doesn’t race uncontrollably or, worse, skip a beat? CEOs and sales managers would concur that the answer is embedded in well-articulated sales objectives and goals. These are not just arbitrary figures or lofty dreams but are methodically set coordinates guiding the trajectory of sales initiatives.

Imagine, if you will, a vast orchestra. Each instrument represents a member of the sales team. The orchestra’s conductor, analogous to a CEO or sales manager, needs well-composed sheet music, sales objectives, and goals to guide the symphony. Without it, the melody could quickly descend into chaos. Now, consider a ship embarking on a voyage. Its captain sets a destination (the sales objective) and interim stops (sales goals) for resource replenishment. This sequential approach ensures the journey remains on track, no matter how tumultuous the seas are.

Such analogies underscore a simple yet often overlooked truth: the nuances between objectives and goals matter. It’s not just a matter of semantics but strategy. Indeed, companies that distinctively lay out both show a staggering 28% improvement in sales team performance. These figures aren’t mere data points but are a testament to the intertwined psychology and methodology behind sales targets.

However, charting this path is not without its challenges. Aiming too high can be as dangerous as setting sights too low. The former can overshadow the team with an impending sense of inaccessibility, making the climb appear insurmountable. On the other hand, the latter risks inducing a sense of complacency, stifling the potential of a talented sales force.

But how does one strike that impeccable balance? The key, I believe, lies at the intersection of retrospection, analysis, and anticipation. A thorough evaluation of past performances acts as a foundation. For instance, projecting a 50% growth based on the previous year’s 15% without significant infrastructural changes might lean towards fantasy. Furthermore, a finger on the pulse of market trends helps set realistic ambitions. Resources, often a limiting factor, need to be meticulously assessed. Remember, monumental objectives warrant monumental resource allocations. A CEO’s arsenal should also incorporate frontline feedback, an often underutilized yet invaluable asset. And as the sands of the marketplace continually shift, maintaining flexibility in these objectives and goals is paramount.

These defined objectives and goals do more than merely set targets. They breathe life into the organization. They synergize scattered efforts, fostering a culture where ambition thrives, and accountability is cherished. It transforms every deal, every pitch into a cog in the grand machinery of corporate growth.

Setting clear sales objectives and goals is akin to crafting a masterpiece symphony. Each chord, each note, when harmonized, weaves an enchanting melody. CEOs and sales managers, as the chief architects of their organizations, possess the potential to orchestrate this. And in the dynamic dance of sales, where the only constant is change, these well-defined objectives and goals don’t just serve as a compass—they become the essence of the journey. Because the goal, after all, is not just to increase sales but to understand the depth, the method, and the purpose behind it.

Create A Great Sales Organization series, Sales Management, Sales Professionalism, , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Four of Spades: Understanding your client’s business: Analyzing Customer Goals: Understanding Competitive Landscape: Recognize your client’s relationships with your competitors to better position your offerings.

Four of Spades: Understanding your client’s business: Analyzing Customer Goals: Understanding Competitive Landscape: Recognize your client’s relationships with your competitors to better position your offerings.

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

Crafting the Perfect Sales Strategy: Understanding the Competitive Landscape

In the world of sales, understanding the competitive landscape is as vital as the seasoned chess player’s ability to predict their opponent’s moves. Think of the business landscape as a grand chessboard. Each company, akin to a player, tactically moves, adjusts to threats, and seeks positions of influence. These moves signify their strategy, and a crucial part of this strategy revolves around their competitive dynamics. For sales leaders and professionals, this knowledge doesn’t just serve to inform—it reshapes the narrative and the very essence of their pitch.

The Significance of the Competitive Environment

Let’s delve into a hypothetical situation to provide depth to our premise. Suppose you’re approaching Company A—a company recently disillusioned by a competitor’s solution. If your pitch mirrors the competitor’s offering, you’re at a disadvantage. The inherent bias against similar solutions is palpable. However, being aware of this dynamic and highlighting how your superior solution pivots your pitch from ordinary to compelling. It’s not just a strategy; it’s foundational to successful selling.

The Ever-changing Nature of Competition

But here’s where the complexity sets in. Competitive relationships are like rivers; they are seldom static. They change, influenced by external market shifts, internal strategic decisions, and evolving company needs. The true challenge is the fluidity of these relationships. Rarely does a company broadcast its grievances or alliances with competitors. Thus, as sales professionals, it’s imperative to recognize and navigate these nuances.

Navigating the Maze of Competition

To truly understand and utilize this knowledge, a multifaceted approach is paramount. Start with a bird’s-eye view. Familiarize yourself with the significant industry players and their affiliations. Who are the allies, competitors, or potential merger interests?

Delving deeper, the gold often lies in direct client interactions. Comments referencing past associations, like “We used to work with…” can provide invaluable insights into their competitive history. Furthermore, creating channels for feedback post-pitch can reveal comparisons they make with competitors—insights that can refine future strategies.

Moreover, staying updated is non-negotiable. Attend industry conferences, join forums, and subscribe to trade journals. In an era of technological advancement, tools like CRM systems and competitive analysis platforms provide real-time insights into a company’s competitive standing and relationships.

My book, Eliminate Your Competition, can be a great window into dealing with competitors. Understanding your major competition, your minor competitors, and your niche competitors can be helpful in how you develop your strategy to entice your prospect to become a customer. There is a benefit in having competition also since without competition, you are unsure if the prospect is truly serious about making a change, in other words, spending their money on your product.

You may purchase my book Eliminate Your Competition from your favorite book retailer. The ebook version is available at the most popular retailers such as Apple, Amazon, Barnes & Noble. The paperback version is also widely available at such retailers as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books A Million.

Crafting the Masterstroke: Your Sales Pitch

Armed with such rich insights, the pitch transforms. It’s no longer about selling a product or a service. It’s about situating your solution within a broader competitive context, differentiating it, and accentuating its unique value. For example, if a prospective client had scalability concerns with a competitor’s product, spotlighting scalability as a cornerstone of your offering isn’t just strategic—it’s transformative.

The Competitive Chessboard

Navigating the intricate business world, with its fluid relationships and shifting loyalties, is reminiscent of a grand chess game. The board, filled with complex moves and strategies, demands foresight and precision. CEOs, sales managers, and professionals must understand that in the realm of sales, this is more than just about the product.

Business, Create A Great Sales Organization series, Sales Management, Sales Professionalism, , , , , , , , , , , , ,
The McDonald’s Lesson: Why a Diverse Sales Team Matters for Small Businesses

The McDonald’s Lesson: Why a Diverse Sales Team Matters for Small Businesses

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

In the annals of American business history, few stories are as captivating as the rise of McDonald’s, immortalized in the 2016 biographical drama film “The Founder.” The story of Ray Kroc, a struggling milkshake machine salesman who transformed a local drive-in into a global fast-food empire, is a classic tale of ambition, innovation, and, controversially, ruthless business acumen.

However, behind the gripping narrative lies a valuable lesson for small businesses today. The McDonald brothers, Richard and Maurice, were entrepreneurs who envisioned a revolutionary fast-food system. Their only significant flaw? They relied heavily on a single salesperson – Ray Kroc – to sell their franchise concept. This dependency proved to be their Achilles’ heel and resulted in them losing control over their brand.

The McDonald brothers had an excellent product and a promising business model. But the near-total reliance on Kroc as their sole franchise salesperson left them vulnerable. When Kroc’s ambition overstepped the boundaries they were comfortable with, they had no alternative but to endure the adverse outcomes, including the eventual loss of their company.

Small businesses must take this lesson to heart in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. A diverse sales team is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Here’s why:

Control the Message: The Power of Diversity Over Singularity

In the evolving business landscape, the brand message is one of the most pivotal components for success. It is the heartbeat of your organization, resonating with the values, goals, and ethos your company embodies. Yet, when this message is funneled through a singular voice, it often becomes vulnerable to unintentional distortions and personal biases. Imagine an intricate musical piece being played only on one instrument – while it may still carry the tune, it misses the richness and depth that a full orchestra brings.

With a sole salesperson at the helm, there’s a heightened risk of this narrative skew. Their personal experiences, perspectives, or unique communication styles can inadvertently overshadow or drift from the brand’s foundational message. This is not to question the competence or intentions of the salesperson but to understand human nature. We all carry our filters and interpret things based on our lenses. In contrast, a diverse sales team acts as a safeguard. When guided by a unified strategy, multiple voices can reinforce the brand’s core message, iron out anomalies, and present a more rounded, authentic narrative to potential clients.

Moreover, by diversifying the conveyors of your brand message, you’re preserving its integrity and broadening its reach. Different salespeople can resonate differently with a varied clientele, ensuring your brand message is consistent and universally relatable. It’s about striking a balance between consistency and versatility, and in the intricate dance of sales, this balance can make all the difference.

Reduced Dependency: Spreading the Net Wide for Steady Growth

The tale of the McDonald brothers provides a cautionary narrative about the perils of leaning heavily on a singular entity for business advancement. While it seems convenient and efficient in the short term to place the onus of sales on one high-performing individual, this structure is fraught with risks. Over-reliance on a single salesperson can be likened to building a house on a singular pillar – while it might hold for a while, a single crack can bring the entire edifice crashing down.

A broad and diversified sales team acts as a buffer against such risks. Each member brings their strengths to the table, ensuring that the entire operation doesn’t come to a standstill if one cog in the machinery malfunctions. Whether it’s due to changing personal interests, unforeseen circumstances, or the natural evolution of a career, key players might exit the stage at some point. In such scenarios, a well-rounded sales team ensures that the business doesn’t just survive but thrives, adjusting and recalibrating with minimal disruptions.

Furthermore, reduced dependency on a single individual promotes collective growth and shared responsibility. It fosters an environment where team members motivate one another, learn from each other’s successes and setbacks, and drive the business forward as a united front. The lesson is clear: while individual brilliance is always welcome, the future of sustainable growth lies in collective strength and diversity.

Expanded Reach: The Power of Diversity in Scaling New Heights

A homogenous approach can stymie growth in a small company with a single salesperson. Imagine walking into a room where everyone thinks the same, has had the same experiences, and shares the same network. While there might be a comforting familiarity, the scope for fresh insights is limited. Enter a diverse sales team, a veritable melting pot of backgrounds, experiences, and worldviews. The breadth of knowledge and understanding they bring to the table allows businesses to see beyond the obvious and tap into uncharted territories.

Each member of a diverse sales team carries a unique professional, personal history, and distinct network. These networks, spanning various sectors, regions, and demographics, are like numerous doors waiting to be opened. A multicultural salesperson might provide insights into the buying behaviors of a particular community, while someone from a different industry background might spot parallels and opportunities overlooked by others. The cumulative effect is a richer, more nuanced understanding of a broad spectrum of potential clients, leading to more inclusive marketing strategies and products that cater to a broader audience.

Embracing such diversity isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s a strategic move. In a world where businesses vie for every inch of customer attention, a diverse sales team can be the very edge that sets a company apart, enabling it to resonate with a broader audience and ensuring that its message isn’t just heard but truly understood and embraced.

Increased Innovation: The Spark of Diverse Minds

Like any other sector, the world of sales thrives on fresh perspectives and new ideas. When sales teams resemble an echo chamber, echoing the same strategies and views, stagnation is inevitable. However, a diverse group of salespeople, each hailing from varied experiences and backgrounds, becomes a cauldron of creativity. Every pitch, every strategy, and every solution they discuss is a culmination of their unique journeys, a blend of traditional wisdom and avant-garde ideas.

Consider a brainstorming session where a salesperson with a background in tech suggests leveraging a new tool. At the same time, another with experience in the arts offers a storytelling approach. Fusing these distinct perspectives can lead to a groundbreaking strategy that neither could have conceived alone. Such diversity acts as the lifeblood of innovation, pushing boundaries and constantly redefining what’s possible. It instigates challenges to the “that’s how we’ve always done it” mindset, compelling teams to iterate, refine, and reinvent.

Moreover, in a landscape where competition is rife, the companies that stand out are unafraid to think differently, to tread unexplored paths. A diverse sales team becomes an organization’s compass in such scenarios, pointing toward opportunities for innovation, ensuring that the business meets its sales targets and pioneers change, and setting benchmarks for others to follow.

The story of the McDonald brothers and Ray Kroc dramatized in “The Founder,” offers an invaluable business lesson. While having an innovative product and a robust business model is essential, having a diverse sales team that can control your brand message, reduce dependency, expand your market reach, and fuel innovation is equally crucial.

Small businesses today must avoid the McDonald brothers’ error of over-reliance on a single salesperson. By investing in a diverse and well-rounded sales team, companies can ensure sustainable growth and maintain control over their brand’s destiny.

In the early stages of a business, budgetary constraints can make it challenging to expand an in-house sales team, even when the glaring perils of relying on a lone salesperson become evident. But, in our interconnected age, physical presence and full-time employment are just some of the means to tap into top-tier talent. Outsourcing has emerged as a powerful strategy to bolster a salesforce without unduly straining the finances.

Outsourced salespeople or fractional sales professionals offer a compelling solution. These are seasoned veterans, adept at navigating the intricacies of the sales realm, who can be brought on board for specific campaigns or durations. Their expertise ensures businesses benefit from their wealth of experience without committing to long-term overheads. Similarly, companies specializing in business-development representation can be goldmines for startups and SMEs. They can rapidly amplify a company’s outreach, bringing in leads and opening doors that an individual salesperson might need help to knock on. Leveraging such services, businesses can enjoy the advantages of a diversified team while maintaining a lean operational structure.

With Fractional Vice President’s of Sales, such as Sean O’Shaughnessey of New Sales Expert, it is possible to manage a diverse group of sellers that are not direct company employees. While a less experienced sales manager or the company owner may balk at this type of challenge, it perfectly aligns with Sean’s skills and expertise. Don’t let the lack of sales management expertise prevent the expansion of your company’s sales dreams.

The modern sales landscape offers various flexible solutions for companies eager to grow beyond a singular sales voice. Whether through fractional sales leadership, fractional sales roles, outsourced professionals, and dedicated BDR firms, businesses can craft a multi-dimensional sales strategy that combines the nimbleness of a small team with the expansive reach of a more significant force.

Crafting Tomorrow’s Sales Strategy with Lessons from the Past

The McDonald’s narrative, as described in the movie, “The Founder,” is a poignant reminder of the intricate dynamics between innovation, ambition, and brand representation. While the ambition to grow is innate in every business, the path to achieving this growth can significantly shape its future. As we stand on the precipice of a rapidly changing global market, with opportunities and challenges alike, businesses must pivot towards a more inclusive and diversified sales strategy. Embracing diversity, harnessing the power of collective networks, and leveraging innovative outsourcing solutions are not mere options—they’re necessities. Small businesses, in particular, have an exciting chance to rewrite their sales script, infusing it with the vigor of varied voices and expertise. The journey from a local idea to a global empire is fraught with decisions; ensuring that these decisions are made through a diverse prism can be the defining factor between mere survival and unparalleled success. Let the lessons from the past illuminate the road ahead, reminding us that in diversity lies immense strength and phenomenal potential.

Business, Sales Management, Sales Professionalism, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – Sales Leadership Mastery: How to Coach, Not Micromanage, Your Team – Episode 44

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – Sales Leadership Mastery: How to Coach, Not Micromanage, Your Team – Episode 44

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

Welcome to another riveting episode of Two Tall Guys Talking Sales with your dynamic hosts, Sean O’Shaughnessey and Kevin Lawson. In this episode, our duo takes on a subject that stirs strong emotions in the sales world: micromanagement. With a combined experience of several decades in sales, Sean and Kevin delve into their philosophies, personal experiences, and provide actionable insights on transitioning from micromanagement to effective leadership. Whether you’re a salesperson, a manager, or a business leader, you’re going to find value in their candid conversation.

Key Topics Discussed:

  1. Micromanagement in Sales: Sean’s personal aversion to micromanagement, his challenges, and how he navigated them during his 38-year career.
  2. Transitioning from Micromanaging to Leadership: Kevin’s insights into the delicate balance between engaging the team and inadvertently falling into micromanagement.
  3. Differentiating Between Green and Seasoned Salespeople: How to manage new salespeople who need structure versus seasoned reps who require trust.
  4. The Importance of Trust in a Sales Team: Bad examples of trust violations and the cultivation of a culture of trust within the sales organization.
  5. Becoming a Leader: Strategies and practical advice for transitioning from a micromanager to a leader, and the value it brings to the sales culture.

Key Quotes:

  • Sean: “I despised anybody who was going to drive me day to day, ask me every single thing, question every single deal just didn’t fit well with my personality.”
  • Kevin: “How can I help? That’s how the shift comes in my mind from a micromanager to an effective leader. Instead of asking detail, detail, detail, they’re asking about resource, resource, strategy, that’s the big shift for me.”

In this engaging episode of Two Tall Guys Talking Sales, Sean and Kevin don’t just identify the problems associated with micromanagement but provide actionable insights and solutions for how to evolve into an effective leader. Whether you’re just beginning in sales or leading a team, their candid conversation will offer you strategies to avoid micromanagement, build trust within your team, and create a culture of success. Don’t miss this chance to learn from two seasoned sales veterans – tune in to this episode and take your sales leadership skills to the next level!

Business, Podcast, Prospecting, Sales Professionalism, Two Tall Guys Talking Sales, , , , , , , , , , , ,
The Kaivac Impact: Harnessing Faith, Innovation, and Sales Excellence in the Cleaning Industry

The Kaivac Impact: Harnessing Faith, Innovation, and Sales Excellence in the Cleaning Industry

By soshaughnessey1 Comment

Bob Robinson, Jr., and his mechanical-engineer father, Bob Robinson, Sr., came up with the idea for a product the world truly needed 25 years ago: a “no-touch” restroom cleaning machine. Their company, Kaivac, is a Hamilton, OH-based manufacturer of cleaning machines. Hamilton is a suburb of Cincinnati, OH.

Bob Robinson, Jr.

“We were on our hands and knees, crawling around the bathroom,” recalls Bob, Jr. “It was disgusting. We said, ‘There’s got to be a better way.'” 

Through hard work and dedication, the Robinsons created the KaiVac to help solve that initial problem in public restrooms. Over the years, they grew the idea to create dedicated machines to clean kitchen floors, hallway floors, and grocery displays. Beyond its bathroom cleaning technology, it has expanded into floor cleaning and spill response machines and has 18 patents with 16 pending.

Along with growing their manufacturing capabilities, they also grew their sales capabilities. They adopted a hybrid strategy of selling through distribution and selling directly to key customers. Their direct team, under the leadership of Bob Robinson, Jr., who had taken on the role of VP of Sales, closed many enviable customers with massive deals, including Walmart, Kroger, and Target.

They realized that they needed to step up their sales professionalism after having a down year during COVID after having a record-breaking year the year before. They wanted to grow to $75 million in annual revenue within three years and a Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG) of $1 billion in annual revenue within 20 years. 

Bob Jr. says Kaivac is just getting started. “At 20 to 25 years in business, you’re at an inflection point where you’ve got resources, tenure, and history and have been through ‘adolescence,'” he says. “Now is the chance to build a professionalized organization.”

They contacted New Sales Expert LLC as the nation was coming out of the global pandemic, but before all the supply chain problems had paused. New Sales Expert LLC is a fractional vice president of sales consultancy. Sean O’Shaughnessey, the CEO of New Sales Expert, is aligned with SalesXceleration and has 38 years of experience in sales and sales management.

According to Sean, “Kaivac is a joy to work with. They are the shining star of Hamilton, OH, and Butler County. They had so much raw potential when I walked in the door; all I had to do was to focus their energy and enthusiasm on working smarter and just a little harder.”

Building an organization with a heart

Bob Robinson, Sr.

Kaivac had a great culture to build on to make a great sales culture. Before Sean showed up, the company leadership had already developed their One-Page Strategic Plan and their “Why?” statement that reflects the owners’ Christian faith: “To glorify God by using KAIVAC as an instrument for Good.” 

In addition to the “Why?” statement, they had drafted an acronym called FIGS that conveys the “heart” of the company. FIGS—which appears on signs that hang on the factory floor and in break rooms—stands for 

  • F: “First shall be last, last shall be first.”
  • I: Integrity—as in “The truth shall set you free.”
  • G: Golden Rule—meaning “treat others how you want to be treated.”
  • S: Servant’s Heart, as in “We are in a race to help people.”

The company uses the first three letters of its name–KAI–to inspire the team’s thinking and actions. These letters stand for inspiring phrases such as: “Keep At It,” “Keep Always Improving,” “Keep Attempting the Impossible,” and “(creates) Kick-Ass Inventions.” 

Prioritizing net income and growth

Sean’s first change was to make a compensation plan that motivated the sales team to sell bigger deals and to sell them quickly. Kaivac implemented a 50/50 plan in concert with defined territories to keep the Key Account salespeople focused on the goal of more significant and profitable orders.

After the motivation component was in place, it was time to help the team learn how to sell big deals more repeatedly. The big deals of the past had been challenging to work on and, while very profitable, had been disruptive to close. Sean encouraged the company to read John McMahon’s book, “The Qualified Sales Leader,” and with that tome as inspiration, quickly deployed MEDDPICCC to help them qualify deals. 

MEDDPICCC by itself is not enough. The company had already licensed Salesforce, one of the highest-rated CRMs on the market, but Sean put MEDDPICCC into the various stages of the sales process to ensure that the salespeople knew all the required information about a big deal. Sean also created dashboards within Salesforce to track deal progress at the management level. The company implemented Sales Plans for Key Accounts and the Power Matrix to document the most influential people in the customer’s decision-making process.

The very first big deals that the company found after Sean started to help them also benefited from the Decision Timeline. The Decision Timeline is a tool to allow the sales team to walk through the entire decision-making process of the customer to understand all of the steps required to make a significant investment decision. It allowed frank and honest conversations to take place with the prospect as the team worked to close the largest deal in the company’s history to date.

Time to run on their own

Mike Perazzo, Allen Randolph, Bob Robinson, Jr., and Nick Wehby after passing their Certified Sales Leader exams.

As with most of the assignments with New Sales Expert, LLC, the goal is to allow the company to run independently. Bob Robinson Jr. was the company’s VP of Sales. Still, he needed to shed those responsibilities to help run the entire company. To finish the transition, Bob and three of his leaders took SalesXceleration‘s Certified Sales Leadership course delivered by Sean O’Shaughnessey. 

The Certified Sales Leader (CSL) designation is the country’s most comprehensive sales leadership certification program offered. CSL leadership training and certification will prepare you with the analytical, tactical, and strategic sales management skills needed to drive revenue growth now…and into the future. CSL training expands the skill set of a Sales Manager by providing coaching, techniques, and tools to lead a successful sales team. 

All four Kaivac leaders passed the CSL test. One of them, Mike Perazzo, was tagged to take over as Executive Vice President of Sales. According to Mike, “Sean is a master coach for helping shape sales process and methodology. Following his methods will help grow sales faster, transactionally, and strategically. Often a couple of pieces of the puzzle are missing, and Sean helps quickly identify them.

You have everything to gain by having Sean look at your current approach. He is a change agent and disruptive to the status quo. Pushing the pace and flow of deals is his sweet spot. I am a better sales leader because of my time with him.”

Bob Robinson, Sr., and Jr. with their sales team celebrating a recent patent award

Sean O’Shaughnessey of New Sales Expert, LLC states, “Kaivac is a wonderful company. They have created a line of machines that gives pride to the workers in one of the toughest jobs in America – keeping things clean. They are focused on the success of their customers and their employees. They had all of the raw skills within their sales team to be a great sales organization; they only needed me to focus them on activities and techniques that allowed them to close bigger deals faster and at a higher profit level.”

“If anyone works in a clean building with clean restrooms and hard surface floors, they are either cleaning it with Kaivac technology or paying too much for that cleanliness,” Sean explains.

Revenue and profitability have grown since Sean helped Kaivac develop a higher level of sales professionalism. Recent results have shown a dramatic increase in revenue and profitability. The sales and revenue growth have allowed the entire family of Kaivac to prosper. The Robinsons have always considered their employees an extension of their family. The company’s prosperity is passed along to team members through a bonus structure for the whole company. It all fits into the spirit of Kaivac. Bob Jr. says, “Our organization was built to have heart.”

If you want to learn more about Kaivac, you can head to their website at www.Kaivac.com. You should also check out this video: The Story of Kaivac. Kaivac is on its way to outer space on revenue growth, and everyone should check out their entertaining Q3 kickoff video about the growth of Kaivac.

To learn more about Fractional Sales Management and how it can help your company, go to www.NewSales.Expert.

The Story of Kaivac
Business, Sales Management, Sales Professionalism, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – Breaking Growth Barriers: When Should CEOs Stop Leading Sales?– Episode 40

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – Breaking Growth Barriers: When Should CEOs Stop Leading Sales?– Episode 40

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

In this insightful episode of Two Tall Guys Talking Sales, hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey deep-dive into the crucial topic of assigning the right person to the sales leadership role within a company and the risks and opportunities that come with it. Leveraging their experiences in sales consultancy and drawing from the wisdom of thought leaders and successful entrepreneurs, they explore how CEOs can de-risk their company’s growth potential by stepping back from direct sales and fostering a culture of accountability, infrastructure, and high performance in their sales teams.

Key Topics Discussed:

  1. The Risk of CEO-led Sales: The episode starts with a discussion on the potential risks of having a CEO or owner-operator as the sales leader, emphasizing how this could constrain business growth.
  2. The Theory of Constraints: The hosts explain the theory of constraints using a compelling example from a book called The Goal, drawing parallels to how constraints can hinder sales and growth within a company.
  3. Building a Sales Organization: They delve into the necessity of professional salespeople and a dedicated sales manager to bring in new revenue, enabling the CEO to focus on larger issues within the organization.
  4. EOS and Right Person, Right Seat: Sean mentions EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) and the importance of having the right person in the right seat to drive growth, particularly once a company reaches a certain size.
  5. Building a High-Performance Culture: The hosts discuss how to build a high-performance sales culture that is systematic and repeatable, using examples from sports dynasties and successful companies.

Key Quotes:

  1. “What is the risk of the owner-operator being the only salesperson or the sales leader when the person is leading the company and leading sales? What you end up with is a business that is constrained by the amount of time that leader has.” – Kevin Lawson
  2. “If you want to know how we know this, it’s cuz we’ve done this a few times, we’ve worked with a number of businesses, and this is how we help people grow.” – Kevin Lawson
  3. “It’s okay to ask for help, but it’s also very important that you have experts doing the job as much as possible so that you can be very, very effective at driving performance and driving your company forward.” – Sean O’Shaughnessey

Additional Resources:

In this episode, Kevin and Sean break down the importance of implementing a well-structured sales team and the necessity for CEOs to delegate sales leadership. They highlight the risks of an owner-operator leading sales and how it can limit business growth. Using their experience and the wisdom of successful entrepreneurs, they provide valuable insights into creating a systematic, repeatable, and high-performance sales culture. So, if you’re an entrepreneur looking to streamline your sales process and drive your company forward, this episode of Two Tall Guys Talking Sales is a must-listen. You won’t want to miss it!

Podcast, Sales Management, Two Tall Guys Talking Sales, , , , , , , , ,
Leadership Styles Differ Based on the Situation: Sales Growth vs. Sales Recovery 

Leadership Styles Differ Based on the Situation: Sales Growth vs. Sales Recovery 

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

By Sean O’Shaughnessey & Kevin Lawson

As B2B-focused businesses navigate the ever-changing landscape of a post-COVID economy, sales leaders must adopt and institute strategies to meet the demands of a business in growth or recovery mode. 

While the goal for a sales organization may be to sustain the growth trajectory aligned with organizational goals, the year-over-year approach to achieving success can vary significantly. Sales leadership styles depend on the current situation, the starting point, and the existing team charged to accomplish the goal. Good sales leaders find a way to achieve the annual goal; great sales leaders find ways to achieve the goal and systemize the process to allow for repeatable growth, pivots, and rapid scale.      

Growth Focused Leadership

Sales leaders focused on growth must proactively identify new market opportunities, verticals, geographies, platforms, or sales talent. They must invest in new sales channels and technologies, along with onboarding and training programs to support the growth of their sales teams and the acquisition of new client relationships.

When sales teams are in a breakout stage of growth, it can be challenging to gain the discipline to systems and alignment on processes and approaches due to the nature of managing client expectations on a wildly rising revenue outlook. This situation demands that all of the skills of a sales leader be applied consistently and strategically across the team and sales practices.  

Seasoned leaders know that hiring for an increased workload and rapidly scaling teams can be tempting. However, this approach can often lead to problems down the line. Further, we must suppress the desire to hire quickly instead of exercising patience in finding the right candidate to continue to scale teams and culture appropriately. That patience means we must endure the short-term challenges of being under-resourced and under a great deal of pressure to keep performing as if we already had the resources on the team.  Instead, it is essential to focus on finding the right candidate who will not only be able to handle the current workload but also contribute to your team’s culture and help your organization achieve long-term success. Take the time to vet candidates carefully and consider not only their skills and experience but also their values and how they fit into your team’s dynamic. By prioritizing quality over speed, you’ll set your team up for success in the long run.

Another important consideration when building a team is to prioritize scalability. It’s easy to get caught up in your organization’s immediate needs and hire for the present moment, but it’s crucial to think about how your team will grow and evolve. Look for candidates with the potential to take on new responsibilities and leadership roles as your organization expands. Consider investing in training and professional development programs to help your team members acquire new skills and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends. By prioritizing scalability, you’ll be better equipped to adapt to changing business needs and continue to achieve success over the long term.

Discipline to proven systems is essential for leadership and having transparent KPIs and organizational goal communications. The rigor and discipline of a sales leader in a growth cycle are particularly demanding. One primary concern for leaders in this mode is talent loss due to competitive pressures to grab your resources for their growth. It would help if you had experience and discipline for these growth moments.

(more…)
Business, Sales Management, Sales Professionalism, Training, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – Adapting Sales Strategies in a Changing World – Episode 32

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – Adapting Sales Strategies in a Changing World – Episode 32

By soshaughnessey0 Comments

In this episode of the podcast, Kevin and Sean discuss the necessity for sales leaders to adapt their advice and strategies in today’s ever-changing environment. With the numerous changes and challenges that businesses face daily, sales leaders must constantly evolve and stay ahead of the curve to help their teams succeed.

The discussion touches on how being a trusted advisor to clients is crucial for success regardless of market shifts and economic turmoil. The ability to understand and professionally empathize with clients and their challenges allows salespeople to guide clients and prospects toward solutions effectively. Emphasizing the significance of leading indicators in sales activities and reframing value propositions according to clients’ perspectives is vital.

To achieve enduring success, sales leaders must instill the importance of understanding a prospect’s business, its competitors, and its market value to the sales team. This will ultimately make them trusted advisors to their clients and help them navigate the complex and ever-changing business landscape.

Podcast, Two Tall Guys Talking Sales, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,