Unlocking Growth: How TriState Fabricators Transformed Their Sales Approach

Unlocking Growth: How TriState Fabricators Transformed Their Sales Approach

Have you ever wondered how a well-established manufacturing company can revolutionize its sales strategy? The journey of TriState Fabricators, a premier metal fabrication shop in the Midwest, offers compelling insights into this process. In a recent interview, I sat down with Joe Vogt, President and Owner, and Jonathon Padial, VP of Sales, to discuss their transformative experience.

With his 20-year tenure at TriState, Joe Vogt recognized the need for change to scale the business. The company’s sales approach was primarily reactive, relying on RFPs and inside sales personnel. But how do you shift from this traditional model to a proactive, growth-oriented strategy?

Enter the game-changers: a fractional VP of Sales, a robust CRM system, and comprehensive sales leadership training. These tools provided the structure and visibility that TriState had been lacking. Joe Vogt hired Sean O’Shaughnessey, CEO of New Sales Expert, to come in and revamp the sales organization and install best-in-class practices. Sean entered as the VP of Sales and quickly assessed the need to understand the deals better, so he installed Pipedrive as their CRM system. He also started to train the salespeople in the needed sales skills during L10-style meetings patterned after EOS L10 management meetings. To get closer to the biggest customers, the company started to have quarterly business reviews with the biggest and most profitable customers.

Vogt praises O’Shaughnessey several times in the full interview but at one place said, “So I look at Vistage as my board of directors essentially. You were an internal board member for me. I never met anybody with more sales knowledge in my life.”

After several months, Vogt and O’Shaughnessey agreed it was time for TSF to run autonomously and without Sean’s help. After an intense interview process, they hired Jonathon Padial to be Sean’s heir apparent in sales leadership. Coming from a software background, Jonathon continued the emphasis on Pipedrive and a structured sales process. “It’s allowed us to really capture more and for my team to see what’s coming in,” Padial noted. But is technology alone enough to drive change?

The fundamental transformation came from empowering the sales team. Vogt and Padial underwent Certified Sales Leadership (CSL) training, which Padial described as his “bible” for navigating leadership challenges. This training, coupled with their involvement in Vistage and implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), created a powerful trifecta for growth.

But how do you manage such significant changes in an established company culture? Vogt stressed the importance of communication and structure. “If you give structure with the change, it really helps. And you get the people to understand why you’re changing and what the benefits are going to be,” he explained. This approach has led to a more engaged and cohesive sales team than ever before.

Looking to the future, TriState Fabricators is poised for controlled, strategic growth. With plans to incorporate AI and new manufacturing technologies, they’re positioning themselves at the forefront of the industry. But as Padial reminded us, success in manufacturing isn’t just about technology – it’s about relationships and exceptional customer service.

Are you curious to hear more about TriState Fabricators’ journey and gain insights that could transform your business? The full video interview delves into their experiences, challenges, and strategies. It’s a must-watch for any business leader looking to drive growth and embrace organizational change. Don’t miss out on these valuable insights – check out the full interview today!

Mastering Sales in the Digital Age: A Case Study on Megan O’Hara

Mastering Sales in the Digital Age: A Case Study on Megan O’Hara

The sales landscape constantly evolves, and the tools and techniques used to reach potential clients are continually refined and reimagined. One such innovative approach to sales and marketing is pioneered by salespeople and sales managers leveraging technology to add value to their client relationships and boost their sales figures. 

Megan O’Hara, an executive solution specialist in Columbus, Ohio, is at the forefront of this movement. She has developed a unique method of reaching out to clients that adds value to their lives, increases her customer access, and builds her credibility. This method is simple yet impactful: Megan sends a weekly tech tip in a short video format every Monday.

This approach is designed to keep her name at the top of her clients’ minds. In a world where attention spans are increasingly limited and competition for customer attention is fierce, being the first person a client thinks of when they need a product or service is vital. By sending out these tech tips, Megan is providing a valuable service to her clients and ensuring that she remains at the forefront of their minds.

The success of this approach is evident in the response Megan has received from her clients. Many have contacted her after receiving her tech tips, expressing appreciation for her added value to their lives and initiating further business conversations. This is a clear testament to the power of this approach in building strong client relationships and driving sales.

Read the rest of the article…
Enhancing Sales Performance Through Effective One-on-One Coaching Meetings

Enhancing Sales Performance Through Effective One-on-One Coaching Meetings

The effectiveness of sales management is paramount, particularly in how sales managers support their team members to enhance performance. The nuanced relationship between a salesperson and their manager can significantly influence their success, a topic that is gaining traction among CEOs and sales leaders seeking to maximize their team’s capabilities.

One-on-one meetings between sales managers and salespeople are not just routine check-ins but pivotal moments that can define a sales team’s success trajectory. These interactions are opportunities for sales managers to transition from merely overseeing to actively fostering the growth of future sales leaders. The effectiveness of these meetings hinges on the preparation and the approach both parties bring to the table.

A key aspect of these meetings is the focus on the sales pipeline. These are not annual reviews but regular, detailed discussions that provide immediate, actionable feedback. The format of these meetings should allow salespeople to lead the conversation, highlighting challenges and insights into their deals. By doing so, they take ownership of their responsibilities and develop critical analytical skills. It’s crucial for salespeople to come prepared, not with just a superficial overview but with a deep dive into their accounts, ready to discuss specifics such as potential roadblocks in deal closures and strategies for advancing stages in the sales pipeline.

Micromanagement can be a pitfall in these scenarios. While it may be tempting for managers to steer conversations, especially with less experienced salespeople, it’s essential to restrain this impulse. The goal is to guide salespeople to independently spot issues and develop solutions, fostering a more robust and self-reliant sales force.

Integrating technology, such as CRM systems, plays a crucial role. The sales leader and salesperson must thoroughly review all relevant data before meetings. This preparation prevents redundancy during discussions and ensures that the focus is on strategizing rather than information regurgitation. Such meticulousness shows respect for each other’s time and reinforces the value of each meeting.

Training salespeople to identify potential issues streamlines the sales process and prepares them to handle complexities in future deals. This approach enhances their problem-solving skills and aligns with broader business objectives, contributing to the company’s overall health and success.

The transformation of routine management into strategic mentorship can significantly impact a sales team’s effectiveness. Sales leaders must foster an environment where salespeople are empowered to analyze and lead discussions about their work, making these one-on-one meetings a cornerstone of a thriving sales culture. By doing so, they not only improve the immediate outcomes of their deals but also build a resilient and forward-thinking sales team.

Immediate Steps for Sales Leaders to Elevate Their Team’s Performance

  1. Schedule Regular One-on-One Meetings: Set a consistent schedule for one-on-one pipeline review meetings with each salesperson. These should be frequent enough to provide real-time feedback and support, ideally weekly or bi-weekly.
  2. Prepare Thoroughly for Each Meeting: Review the salesperson’s current pipeline and deal statuses in the CRM before each meeting. This preparation allows you to provide targeted advice and focus on strategic discussions rather than information recap.
  3. Empower Salespeople to Lead Discussions: Encourage sales representatives to prepare and lead the meetings. Provide a structure for these sessions but allow them to fill in the details and drive the agenda. This approach helps develop their analytical and leadership skills.
  4. Focus on Professional Development Goals: Be prepared to discuss sales targets and strategies during these meetings. You should identify and plan for each salesperson’s professional development and tailor coaching and feedback to help them grow into future sales leaders.
Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – The Gap Analysis Advantage: Bridging Client Needs with Optimal Solutions with Chris Cocca – E86

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – The Gap Analysis Advantage: Bridging Client Needs with Optimal Solutions with Chris Cocca – E86

Welcome to this week’s episode of Two Tall Guys Talking Sales, where hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey are joined by Chris Cocca, a sales expert, to discuss the vital aspects of discovery meetings and qualifying prospects for a robust sales pipeline. Tune in as they delve into the methodologies that distinguish successful sales strategies, particularly focusing on the RAIN training concept and the essential practice of understanding client aspirations and afflictions.

Key Topics Discussed:

  1. RAIN Training and Strategic Selling: Chris Cocca shares insights into how RAIN training complements traditional strategic selling concepts, helping salespeople better understand where their clients currently are and where they aim to be.
  2. Aspirations and Afflictions: The discussion highlights the importance of understanding clients’ aspirations and afflictions to maximize the perceived value of offered solutions.
  3. Gap Analysis in Sales: Kevin underscores the importance of gap analysis in sales processes, emphasizing how salespeople should position themselves as solutions within the business context.
  4. The Role of CRM Systems: Chris stresses the significance of CRM systems in capturing and utilizing quality data for sales success, illustrating how technology underpins effective sales strategies.
  5. Role-Playing for Sales Training: A discussion on the practical application of role-playing exercises as a method to enhance sales personnel’s discovery skills.
  6. The Importance of Proper Discovery: Sean wraps up the discussion by reinforcing the necessity of a well-executed discovery process, which is crucial for improving sales outcomes.

Key Quotes:

  • Kevin Lawson: “I love that you’re tying the gap analysis because as salespeople, we need to be thinking about that gap because it’s the, where do I fit into this business as a solution?”
  • Sean O’Shaughnessey: “Practice makes easy for asking discovery questions. Asking those business-related questions. Curious how you do that.”
  • Chris Cocca: “The further apart that those aspirations and afflictions are, the more value you can show because you’ve got a lot to work with. If that gap is really narrow and you don’t define that really well, guess what happens? It’s all about price.”

Additional Resources:

  • “Strategic Selling” by Miller Heiman https://a.co/d/6qJH9ME
  • RAIN Sales Training Platform https://salesxceleration.com/news-events/transform-your-sales-performance-with-rain-group-and-sales-xceleration/

Summary:

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for any sales professional looking to sharpen their discovery skills and improve their sales strategy. From understanding the critical role of CRM systems to mastering the art of asking the right questions during client meetings, our guests cover it all. Whether you’re a seasoned sales leader or a new salesperson, this discussion offers valuable techniques that can be immediately implemented to enhance your sales process and ultimately drive better results. Don’t miss out—listen now and transform your sales approach!

Join us next week for more insightful discussions on Two Tall Guys Talking Sales.

Building High-Performing Sales Teams through Strategic Alignment

Building High-Performing Sales Teams through Strategic Alignment

The challenge of aligning the right people with the right organizational roles is paramount. As sales leaders and CEOs of small companies, understanding the intricacies of building and maintaining a proficient sales team is crucial for driving growth and achieving success.

The concept of having the “right people in the right seats” is not just a matter of recruitment but an ongoing process of evaluation, development, and strategic alignment. It’s essential to recognize that the adequacy of a sales team is not solely dependent on individual capabilities but also on how these individuals fit within the broader sales strategy and organizational culture.

Compensation plans, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and the overarching sales infrastructure play significant roles in enabling sales teams to perform at their best. However, the foundation of a high-performing sales team lies in the continuous investment in people. This involves identifying talent and fostering an environment that promotes learning, growth, and adaptation.

Training and development are often overlooked aspects of sales management. Surprisingly, a significant number of sales professionals and leaders go years without receiving formal training. This gap in skill development can lead to stagnation and inefficiency. Therefore, organizations must prioritize ongoing education and training to keep their sales teams agile and competitive.

Furthermore, it is critical that individual roles align with the organization’s goals. This may involve reevaluating existing roles, responsibilities, and processes to ensure they contribute effectively to the sales strategy. Sometimes, the solution does not lie in hiring new talent but in optimizing the current team’s structure and roles to leverage their strengths more effectively.

Performance improvement plans (PIPs) and the concept of “top-grading” the sales team highlight the importance of accountability and continuous improvement. While PIPs can be a tool for addressing performance issues, they should not be the first resort. Instead, leaders should focus on setting clear expectations, providing the necessary resources and support, and fostering a culture of excellence.

Sometimes, the issue may not be with the sales personnel but with the systems, processes, or even the leadership approach. Before making drastic decisions, such as replacing team members, it’s worth taking a step back to assess whether the organization provides the right environment, tools, and guidance for the team to succeed.

Ultimately, building and managing an effective sales team is an intricate process that requires a balanced approach. It involves ensuring that you have the right people in place and that these individuals are equipped, motivated, and aligned with the organization’s goals. As sales leaders and managers, it’s essential to identify and address gaps, foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, and strategically align team structures and processes to drive sales performance.

For salespeople, sales managers, and CEOs of small companies, understanding these dynamics and adopting a holistic approach to sales management can significantly enhance their team’s effectiveness and their organization’s ability to achieve its sales objectives.

Actionable items that you can do today

  1. Evaluate Your Team’s Composition: Take a moment to assess the current structure of your sales team. Identify whether each member is in the role that best suits their skills and where they can contribute the most to the team’s objectives. This could involve one-on-one discussions to understand their goals, strengths, and areas for improvement.
  2. Initiate a Training Needs Analysis: Conduct a thorough training needs analysis to identify gaps in skills and knowledge within your sales team. This should cover everything from product knowledge to sales techniques and the use of CRM systems. Based on this analysis, outline a tailored training program to address these gaps and elevate your team’s performance.
  3. Review and Adjust Compensation Plans: Analyze your current compensation and incentive structures to ensure they align with your organizational goals and sales targets. Adjustments might be necessary to better motivate your team and encourage the behaviors and outcomes you wish to see. This could mean introducing new performance bonuses, adjusting commission rates, or implementing non-monetary rewards that drive motivation.
  4. Implement a Sales Enablement Strategy: Start developing or refining your sales enablement strategy to ensure your sales team has the tools, resources, and content they need to succeed. This could involve updating sales playbooks, improving CRM processes, or investing in new sales enablement technology. The goal is to make it easier for your sales team to sell effectively and efficiently.
Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – From Missed Quotas to Major Wins: Turning Sales Pitfalls into Triumphs – E84

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales Podcast – From Missed Quotas to Major Wins: Turning Sales Pitfalls into Triumphs – E84

In this insightful episode, hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey discuss common pitfalls in sales management and strategies for maintaining customer relationships through effective tools like CRM systems. If you’ve ever missed a deal due to a forgotten follow-up or struggled with customer engagement, this episode is packed with practical advice to enhance your sales processes and hit your targets consistently.

Key Topics Discussed

  • The Importance of Follow-up: How missing follow-ups can impact sales and solutions to prevent these issues.
  • Effective Use of CRM Systems: Exploring how CRM systems can streamline operations and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
  • Project Management and Deadline Adherence: Discussing the critical role of timely project delivery in sales success.
  • Real-world Sales Challenges: Analyzing scenarios from retail and construction to understand complex sales dynamics.
  • Building Lasting Customer Relationships: Strategies for staying top of mind without being overtly sales-driven.
  • Tools vs. Human Effort in Sales: Balancing technology and personal effort in managing customer relationships.

Key Quotes

Kevin Lawson: “There’s nobody else accountable for that but me and my brain. I’ve missed a quarterly quota because I wasn’t diligent and thoughtful enough about my follow-up.”

Sean O’Shaughnessey: “We need to just take care of our customers. Embracing the value of a CRM system is crucial because today, most of us don’t have someone taking care of all the details for us.”

Kevin Lawson: “If you’re not asking your clients, ‘When do you need this by?’ or ‘How much do you need at what time?’ then you’re not really managing your sales effectively.”

Summary

Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or just starting out, this episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales” is a treasure trove of knowledge. Kevin and Sean tackle the realities of sales management, from the undeniable benefits of using CRM systems to ensuring punctuality in project deadlines. They share personal anecdotes and real-world examples that highlight common mistakes and pitfalls and offer actionable solutions to enhance your sales strategy. Tune in to learn how to leverage technology to boost your sales performance and build stronger, lasting customer relationships. Don’t miss out on transforming your sales approach—listen to this episode today!

Crafting a Sales Process Flowchart: Visualize the stages in your sales process for consistency – Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses – Episode 9

Crafting a Sales Process Flowchart: Visualize the stages in your sales process for consistency – Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses – Episode 9

Welcome to “Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses,” the essential podcast for B2B sales professionals, managers, and CEOs of companies aiming for revenue growth. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the core of any thriving sales organization: the Sales Process Flowchart. Guided by Sean O’Shaughnessey, a veteran in sales strategy, we’ll explore how to craft and refine your sales process for peak efficiency and effectiveness.

Our esteemed sponsor, Kevin Lawson of Lighthouse Sales Advisors and Sales Xceleration, is our sponsor for this episode. Kevin offers unparalleled sales leadership solutions for small businesses, focusing on navigating sales growth challenges and scaling up operations through his extensive experience. Kevin’s fractional consultancy is the answer for those looking for expert guidance in sales team development without the commitment of a full-time executive.

Contact Kevin:
Email: Kevin@lighthousesalesadvisors.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kwlawson

Key Topics Discussed

  • Blueprint of Success: Discover the importance of having a well-defined Sales Process Flowchart as your guide through the sales journey.
  • Stages of the Sales Process: Sean breaks down each stage of the sales process, from prospecting to nurturing long-term relationships.
  • Customizing Your Sales Approach: Learn the significance of tailoring your sales process to fit your unique business model and industry requirements.
  • Visualizing the Sales Funnel: An exploration of how visualizing your sales funnel can identify potential leaks and optimize the sales journey.
  • Leveraging Technology: Insight into how automation tools and CRM systems can enhance your sales process and free up your team to focus on selling.
  • The Dynamic Nature of Sales Processes: Emphasizing the importance of continuous feedback and adaptation to keep your sales process relevant and effective.

Key Quotes

  • “Success doesn’t come from random acts of effort. It requires a blueprint, a master plan that orchestrates every step of the sales journey.”
  • “Imagine your Sales Process Flowchart as the architectural plan for a skyscraper. Without it, you’re merely stacking bricks without knowing how high they should go.”
  • “Technology is the wind beneath our sales team’s wings, freeing them up to do what they do best—sell.”

Additional Resources

  • Sales Management Association Study: Highlights the performance impact of using a formal sales process.
  • Harvard Business Review Study: Shows a significant revenue increase for businesses with a standardized sales process.

Action Items You Can Do Today

  • Develop a Visual Sales Process Flowchart: Start with a simple outline and refine it to suit your team’s needs.
  • Solicit Feedback from Your Sales Team: Use their frontline insights to improve your sales process.
  • Customize Your Approach: Ensure your sales stages align with your business model for increased efficiency.
  • Invest in Training and Technology: Equip your team with the necessary knowledge and tools to excel.
  • Embrace Continuous Improvement: Regularly update your sales process based on feedback and changing market conditions.

Today’s episode with Sean O’Shaughnessey has armed you with the knowledge to construct a Sales Process Flowchart that is the backbone of a successful sales strategy. Implementing the discussed actionable strategies will refine your sales process, making it a powerful engine for business growth. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes to further empower your journey to becoming a sales powerhouse.

Contact Information

  • Sean O’Shaughnessey: Email – Sean@NewSales.Expert

For more expert advice on transforming your sales strategies, don’t forget to subscribe to “Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses.” Join us next time for another deep dive into the strategies that can elevate your sales game. Until then, keep selling smart and forging meaningful connections with your customers.

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Elevating Sales Success: Insights from Membrain’s Chief Revenue Officer Paul Fuller – E65

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Elevating Sales Success: Insights from Membrain’s Chief Revenue Officer Paul Fuller – E65

Welcome to another insightful episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey engage in a compelling conversation with Paul Fuller, the Chief Revenue Officer of Membrain. In this episode, they delve into the challenges and strategies of leading a sales team, especially as we approach the new year with fresh goals and targets.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. The Role of a Chief Revenue Officer: Paul Fuller shares his experiences and responsibilities in driving sales and revenue growth.
  2. Motivating Sales Teams for the New Year: Strategies to inspire and prepare sales teams for achieving new goals as the fiscal year resets.
  3. The Importance of Sales Methodology and CRM Tools: Discussion on how effective sales methodologies and CRM tools can enhance sales performance.
  4. Setting Realistic Sales Goals: Balancing company needs with individual salesperson goals for optimal performance.
  5. The Art and Science of Sales: Exploring the blend of methodical processes and creative problem-solving in sales.

Key Quotes

  • Paul Fuller: “Our why is to elevate the sales profession. It’s about empowering ourselves, our partners, and the companies we work with.”
  • Kevin Lawson: “Good management is always good management, whether you’re doing it with high technology influence or low technology influence.”
  • Sean O’Shaughnessey: “How do you find that importance in what you sell and in your life, especially when it’s not as inherently exciting as some products?”

Additional Resources

Summary Paragraph

This episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales” is a must-listen for sales professionals seeking to start the new year on a strong note. With Paul Fuller’s insights on effective sales leadership, the importance of CRM tools, and the art of sales, listeners are equipped with valuable strategies to elevate their sales game. Whether you’re a seasoned sales leader or new to the field, this episode offers practical advice and motivation to achieve your sales goals in the upcoming year.

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Navigating B2B Sales Complexity – Insights from Membrain’s CRO Paul Fuller – E64

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Navigating B2B Sales Complexity – Insights from Membrain’s CRO Paul Fuller – E64

Welcome to another engaging episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey are joined by a special guest, Paul Fuller, the Chief Revenue Officer at Membrain. In this episode, they dive deep into the world of CRM systems, discussing how salespeople can be more productive and the evolving role of technology in sales. Get ready for an insightful conversation that challenges conventional CRM perspectives and offers fresh strategies for sales success.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. Redefining CRM Systems: Exploring the shift from traditional CRM to sales optimization platforms and how this impacts sales productivity.
  2. Sales Methodology Integration: Embedding sales methodologies within CRM systems for effective sales processes is important.
  3. Empowering Salespeople: How CRM should facilitate sales activities, asking the right questions at the right time to guide sales professionals.
  4. Complexity in B2B Sales: Addressing the increasing complexity and committee-based decision-making in B2B sales through effective CRM tools.
  5. Balancing Technology and Relationships: The role of technology in sales and the importance of focusing on relationships over automation.

Key Quotes

  • Paul Fuller: “If every minute spent in this platform by a salesperson is not effectively helping them sell, then we’re doing something wrong.”
  • Kevin Lawson: “CRM has taken on a whole new life here, but I’m really curious about your opinion. How does sales excellence evolve with a good CRM tool?”
  • Sean O’Shaughnessey: “There’s a lot of companies out there that now have more conference room buying or committee buying, and you’ve got to cover all of these people.”

Additional Resources:

  • “The Jolt Effect” – A book recommended by Paul Fuller, discussing the fear of messing up in decision-making – https://a.co/d/iyXz8rd
  • “Changing the Game” by Larry Wilson – A book mentioned by Paul Fuller, focusing on buyer roles and decision-making processes – https://a.co/d/53LQA6T
  • Membrain – The sales optimization platform discussed in the episode – https://www.membrain.com/

Summary Paragraph

In this episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” hosts Kevin and Sean and guest Paul Fuller delve into transforming CRM systems into tools that genuinely enhance sales productivity. They discuss the integration of sales methodologies into CRM platforms, the challenges of complex B2B sales, and the crucial balance between leveraging technology and nurturing relationships in sales. This conversation is a must-listen for sales professionals seeking to optimize their CRM usage and enhance their sales strategies. Tune in for more insights, and join us again next week for another enlightening discussion with Paul Fuller.