Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Mastering the Art of Sales: Strategies to Outshine Your Competitors in 2024 – E68

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Mastering the Art of Sales: Strategies to Outshine Your Competitors in 2024 – E68

Welcome to another insightful episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey delve into the art of salesmanship. In this episode, Sean, author of “Eliminate Your Competition,” shares his expertise on outmaneuvering the competition and achieving sales success in 2024. Join us for a deep dive into the strategies that can transform your sales approach and set you up for a prosperous year.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. Understanding Competition: Sean emphasizes the importance of competition in sales, explaining how it can actually benefit the sales process by reducing the likelihood of a ‘no decision’ outcome.
  2. Five Sales Strategies: Sean outlines the five fundamental sales strategies – Frontal, Flanking, Fragment, Defend, and Develop – and explains how each can be effectively utilized in different sales scenarios.
  3. Strategy in Detail:
    1. Frontal Strategy: Focused on leveraging clear advantages over competitors, requiring excellence in execution and resource intensity.
    2. Flanking Strategy: Involves shifting the customer’s focus to new issues that favor your solution, requiring a deep understanding of the customer’s needs.
    3. Fragment Strategy: Useful for politically weaker positions or less feature-rich products, focusing on a subset of issues.
    4. Defend Strategy: Essential for existing customers, focusing on expanding influence and defending against competitors.
    5. Develop Strategy: Ideal for long-term engagement where immediate purchase isn’t imminent, focusing on building credibility and relationships.
  4. Salesperson Types and Strategies: Sean discusses how different types of salespeople, like Trappers, Hunters, Farmers, and Gatherers, may prefer different strategies based on their strengths and sales approach.

Key Quotes

  • Sean: “Competition is a good thing in sales. It often means you’re more likely to avoid losing a deal to No Decision.”

Additional Resources

  • Book: “Eliminate Your Competition: A Trapper’s Guide to Increasing Your Commission” by Sean O’Shaughnessey, available wherever books are sold – https://amzn.to/2K37ugx.

Summary

In this episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” Sean O’Shaughnessey shares invaluable insights from his book “Eliminate Your Competition,” guiding listeners through various sales strategies to outsmart competitors in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned sales professional or new to the field, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge on approaching sales challenges creatively and effectively. Tune in to learn how to adapt these strategies to your sales style and set yourself up for a successful year in sales.

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Holiday Reflections and Giving Back: A Special Episode – E67

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Holiday Reflections and Giving Back: A Special Episode – E67

Welcome to a special holiday edition of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey share a heartwarming and reflective episode. As we wind down the year, Kevin and Sean take a moment to step back from the hustle of sales strategies and focus on the essence of the holiday season, sharing personal anecdotes and extending warm wishes to their listeners.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. Holiday Reflections: Sean reminisces about a memorable holiday season experience that involved closing a deal in a unique and personal setting.
  2. Work-Life Balance: The importance of relaxing during the holidays and spending quality time with family and loved ones.
  3. Community Involvement: Kevin highlights the significance of giving back to the community and shares insights into their volunteer work.
  4. Building a Supportive Community: The hosts discuss their plans to continue developing their podcast and CEO workshop series in the coming year, emphasizing the value of free resources and support for the sales community.
  5. The Spirit of Giving: A reminder to consider how we can contribute positively to others’ lives, especially during the holiday season.

Key Quotes

  • Sean: “Just have a good time with your family right now.”
  • Kevin: “In this season of giving, think about how you can give to others. Happy holidays.”

Summary

In this heartwarming episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” Kevin and Sean step away from their usual sales-focused discussions to embrace the holiday spirit. They share personal stories, emphasize the importance of family time, and encourage listeners to engage in community service. This episode is a gentle reminder of the joy and fulfillment that comes from giving back and spending time with loved ones. Tune in for a dose of holiday cheer and inspiration to carry into the new year.

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Elevating Your Sales Game: Key Strategies for Pipeline Development – E66

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Elevating Your Sales Game: Key Strategies for Pipeline Development – E66

Welcome to another insightful episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey dive deep into the crucial topic of building a new pipeline for business growth. In this episode, Kevin shares his expertise on net new pipeline growth, offering valuable strategies for sales leaders and teams to enhance their sales processes and achieve success.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. Net New Pipeline Growth: Kevin emphasizes the importance of building a net new pipeline, focusing on strategic and tactical levels to drive sales success.
  2. Activities That Matter: The discussion highlights the significance of consistent, purposeful activities that contribute to sales success, moving beyond quotas to meaningful engagement.
  3. Sales and Marketing Synergy: Kevin stresses the need for sales and marketing to work harmoniously, focusing on acquiring and retaining customers through collaborative efforts.
  4. Role of Sales Leaders: The episode delves into the responsibilities of sales leaders in ensuring their teams focus on the right activities and engage with the right prospects.
  5. Importance of Sales Process and CRM: Kevin discusses how a well-structured sales process and effective CRM usage are crucial for managing and converting leads effectively.
  6. Personal and Professional Brand Building: The conversation touches upon the importance of salespeople growing their network and brand to attract the ideal client profiles.

Key Quotes

  • Kevin: “Activities do matter… It’s about doing the things consistently over time that we know return success.”
  • Kevin: “Sales and marketing should be complimentary, not adversarial… Our whole goal is to acquire and retain customers.”
  • Kevin: “As salespeople, we have a responsibility to be intentional… about creating enough relevant content via activity to get in front of the right people.”

Additional Resources

  • Sales methodologies like MEDDPICCC, SOAR, and BANT.

Summary

In this episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” Kevin Lawson discusses the critical aspect of building a new pipeline for business growth. He provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies and activities necessary for sales success, emphasizing the synergy between sales and marketing, the role of sales leaders, and the importance of a well-structured sales process. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for sales professionals looking to enhance their approach to sales and achieve their goals in the coming year. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the experts and elevate your sales game.

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.

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Special Episode: CEO Workshop – Defining Your Corporate Sales Strategy – E63

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Special Episode: CEO Workshop – Defining Your Corporate Sales Strategy – E63

Sales Strategy Isn’t Just About Hitting Numbers: It’s Your Operational Backbone for Success

A well-defined sales strategy is indispensable for long-term business success.

Importance of Market Segmentation

Don’t fall into the trap of a one-size-fits-all approach. Market segmentation is your tool to tailor unique strategies for distinct customer profiles, ensuring maximized reach and impact.

Crafting a Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

A compelling USP is your golden ticket in a saturated market. Your competitive edge makes your offer not just another option but the go-to solution for your target audience.

Sales Process Flowchart: Consistency is Key

A detailed sales process flowchart is the backbone of your sales execution. It provides a replicable structure and methodology, helping your team stay aligned and focused while enabling timely interventions to address bottlenecks.

Balance Short-term Gains and Long-term Objectives

Quick wins can boost morale but cannot derail your broader goals. CEOs must ensure alignment between immediate gains and long-term strategic objectives, further amplified when integrated with marketing initiatives.

Culture of Continuous Learning

Stagnation is your enemy. Cultivate a culture where past data serves as a scoreboard and a treasure trove of insights for future strategy adjustments.

Regular Reviews for Adaptability

The market won’t wait for you to catch up. Periodic reviews and adjustments ensure your strategy is a living, breathing entity, agile enough to adapt to market conditions and competitive pressures.

Remember, a well-defined, adaptable sales strategy is the key to corporate excellence. Take control and be the strategic architect of your company’s success.

Monitoring Client News and Updates: Stay informed about client updates to address their changing needs  – Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses – Episode 5

Monitoring Client News and Updates: Stay informed about client updates to address their changing needs  – Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses – Episode 5

Welcome to the latest episode of “Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses,” where we dive into the critical aspects of B2B sales. Today, Sean O’Shaughnessey, a seasoned consultant in sales organization enhancement, sheds light on the importance of staying updated with client news and updates. This episode is proudly sponsored by “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” a podcast by Sean O’Shaughnessey and Kevin Lawson focusing on boosting sales management and methodologies.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. The Power of Staying Attuned to Client’s Business World: Sean discusses the significance of being proactive and informed about clients’ activities and how this approach transforms sales teams into strategic forces in B2B sales.
  2. Practical Tools and Strategies for Monitoring Client Updates: Explore the utility of Google Alerts and the role of social media in gaining insights into clients’ strategic moves.
  3. Interpreting Client News as Opportunities: Understanding how to read between the lines of client announcements and news for potential sales opportunities.
  4. Context and Timing in Sales Outreach: The importance of timing your sales outreach to align with clients’ immediate needs or strategic goals.
  5. Leveraging Analytics and CRM for Comprehensive Understanding: How to use analytics and CRM software to analyze client data and market trends for a more informed sales strategy.
  6. Aligning Monitoring Efforts with Sales Objectives: Ensuring all gathered information is strategically used to drive sales goals.

Key Quotes

  • “Staying informed about your clients’ activities is not just advantageous; it’s essential.”
  • “Google Alerts is a straightforward yet powerful tool… It’s about maximizing efficiency and staying one step ahead.”
  • “Data and tools are only as effective as the strategy behind them.”

Additional Resources

Action Items You Can Do Today

  1. Set Up Advanced Google Alerts: Tailor your alerts with specific queries for each client to filter the most relevant information.
  2. Actively Engage on Social Media: Monitor and engage with your clients’ social media activities to build relationships and gather insights.
  3. Analyze Client Structural Changes: Stay informed about your clients’ mergers, expansions, or layoffs and adapt your sales strategies accordingly.
  4. Conduct In-Depth Report Analysis: Regularly review clients’ quarterly and annual reports to tailor your sales approach effectively.
  5. Perfect Your Outreach Timing: Use your insights to determine the best timing for your sales approach, making it as impactful as possible.

Conclusion

In today’s episode, Sean O’Shaughnessey has provided invaluable insights into how monitoring client news and updates can revolutionize your sales strategy. Remember, successful sales are not just about the transaction; they are about offering timely, relevant solutions that align with the client’s current state and needs. Stay tuned for more episodes to continue transforming your business into a sales powerhouse.

Sponsor

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where Sean O’Shaughnessey and Kevin Lawson discuss a single sales topic.

Kevin and Sean together have about 60 years of experience in professional selling. This podcast helps people in sales, sales leadership, and business leadership or company owners realize the maximum value of their company by improving their revenue generation capability. This podcast is designed to help those people enhance their companies’ sales management practices, methodologies, processes, teams, and messaging.

Sean O’Shaughnessey and Kevin Lawson are Fractional Vice Presidents of Sales. They operate their own companies separately but have partnered for this podcast to advise salespeople and SMB companies on successful strategies and methodologies.

Kevin is the CEO of Lighthouse Sales Advisors. Lighthouse Sales Advisors is a sales leadership solution provider for small businesses. Lighthouse helps business owners navigate the potential pitfalls around sales growth, sales turnaround, or scaling up by leveraging sales acumen and decades of experience to build effective sales teams. https://www.lighthousesalesadvisors.com/

Sean is the CEO of New Sales Expert. He helps company owners realize the maximum value of their company by improving their revenue generation capability. He helps owners enhance their sales management, methodologies, processes, teams, and messaging.

Contact Sean

You can learn more about Sean O’Shaughnessey at www.NewSales.Expert. You can drop him an email at Sean@NewSales.Expert. You can connect with Sean on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/soshaughnessey/

Discover how to stay ahead in the competitive world of B2B sales with Sean O’Shaughnessey’s expert insights. This episode of “Driving New Sales” is an essential listen for any sales professional, manager, or small business CEO looking to elevate their sales strategy and stay attuned to their clients’ evolving business world. Tune in now for strategies that will transform your approach to sales!

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Closing Strong: Mastering Year-End Sales Without the Discount Dilemma – E62

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Closing Strong: Mastering Year-End Sales Without the Discount Dilemma – E62

Welcome to another insightful episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where hosts Kevin Lawson and Sean O’Shaughnessey delve into the critical aspects of sales, especially as the year winds down. This episode is a must-listen for sales professionals looking to close their year on a high note. Kevin and Sean share their seasoned perspectives on prioritizing deals, managing customer relationships, and the art of effectively closing sales without succumbing to the pressure of year-end discounts.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. The Importance of Prioritizing Deals: Understanding how to focus on deals with the highest probability of closing.
  2. Effective Sales Strategies for Year-End: Tactics to avoid unnecessary discounts and focus on profitable deals.
  3. Building and Maintaining Customer Trust: Strategies for nurturing trust and client relationships.
  4. Time Management in Sales: Maximizing efficiency and effectiveness in the final sales push of the year.
  5. Navigating Internal Processes and Decision-Makers: Tips for understanding and working within a client’s internal purchasing processes.
  6. Post-December 15th Strategies: How to engage with clients after the critical sales period.

Key Quotes

  • Kevin Lawson: “Focusing on the right things is never a wrong thing. This is a time management moment. Don’t get caught up in the hype of what’s my biggest deal. Get caught up in the hype of what relationships have I secured.”
  • Sean O’Shaughnessey: “You need to focus on getting deals done that are profitable for the company. Don’t focus on what if I gave him a 22 percent discount that was only good for the next three days? Those are bad deals for the profitability of your company.”

Summary Paragraph

This episode of “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales” is a treasure trove of wisdom for sales professionals. Kevin and Sean, with their extensive experience, offer invaluable advice on prioritizing deals, building trust, and closing the year strongly without falling into the discount trap. Their conversation is not just about strategies but also about the mindset required to succeed in sales. This episode is your go-to resource if you want to refine your sales approach, especially as the year ends. Tune in to gain insights that could transform your sales journey!

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Happy Thanksgiving from Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – E61

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – Happy Thanksgiving from Two Tall Guys Talking Sales – E61

Kevin and Sean hope our listeners have much to be thankful for in 2023. Most of you will be taking time off this week so we have kept this episode short.

Remember, when you return to work on Monday after Thanksgiving, you will only have about three weeks of selling time left in the year. It is really hard to close significant business after December 15!

Understanding Competitive Landscape: Recognize your client’s relationships with your competitors to better position your offerings – Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses – Episode 4

Understanding Competitive Landscape: Recognize your client’s relationships with your competitors to better position your offerings – Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses – Episode 4

Welcome to a new episode of “Driving New Sales: Transforming Small Businesses into Sales Powerhouses.” In this podcast, hosted by sales expert Sean O’Shaughnessey, we delve into the intricacies of competitive analysis in sales, a critical skill for sales professionals, managers, and business owners in mid-sized companies. This episode is brought to you by the podcast “Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” a podcast by Sean O’Shaughnessey and Kevin Lawson focusing on boosting sales management and methodologies.

Key Topics Discussed

  1. Analyzing Client’s Vendor Relationships: Understand the importance of examining your clients’ past and current vendor choices to glean their preferences and decision-making processes.
  2. Understanding Client Preferences for Competitors: Dive into why clients prefer specific competitors, considering factors like cost, quality, service, and innovation.
  3. Differentiating from Competitors: Learn to identify gaps in your competitors’ offerings to position your solutions effectively.
  4. Strategic Positioning in Sales and Marketing: Master the craft of aligning your product’s strengths with your client’s needs through strategic messaging.
  5. SWOT Analysis for Clients: Utilize SWOT analysis to understand and effectively help your clients reach their goals more efficiently than your competition.
  6. Integrating Competitive Insights: Explore ways to integrate competitive insights into client conversations, positioning yourself as a knowledgeable partner.

Key Quotes

  • “It’s not just about understanding your competitors; it’s about strategically leveraging this knowledge to enhance your sales approach.”
  • “If you are precisely the same as your competitor, why should the prospect change vendors or select between you and your competitor?”
  • “A great sales organization will customize the standard marketing message to the needs of each potential customer or prospect.”

Additional Resources

Action Items You Can Do Today

  1. Conduct a Vendor History Analysis: Investigate your client’s past vendor choices to understand their evolving needs and preferences.
  2. Undertake Competitor Analysis: Perform a detailed analysis of why clients prefer certain competitors, utilizing customer feedback and industry reports.
  3. Perform Gap Analysis: Identify gaps in competitors’ offerings and compare them to your own, extending this comparison to various aspects like customer service and pricing strategies.
  4. Refine Strategic Positioning: Regularly update your strategic positioning based on market research and client feedback.
  5. Develop Client-Specific SWOT Analyses: Craft a tailored SWOT analysis for each key client, focusing on how your solutions address their unique challenges.
  6. Strategically Use Competitive Insights: Integrate your competitive insights into sales conversations in a consultative manner, focusing on the unique value of your offerings.

Conclusion

Remember that understanding and leveraging your competition knowledge is key to meeting and exceeding your client’s needs. Implement these strategies to transform your sales approach, leading to greater success and client satisfaction. Tune in next time for more invaluable B2B sales insights.

Sponsor

Two Tall Guys Talking Sales,” where Sean O’Shaughnessey and Kevin Lawson discuss a single sales topic.

Kevin and Sean together have about 60 years of experience in professional selling. This podcast helps people in sales, sales leadership, and business leadership or company owners realize the maximum value of their company by improving their revenue generation capability. This podcast is designed to help those people enhance their companies’ sales management practices, methodologies, processes, teams, and messaging.

Sean O’Shaughnessey and Kevin Lawson are Fractional Vice Presidents of Sales. They operate their own companies separately but have partnered for this podcast to advise salespeople and SMB companies on successful strategies and methodologies.

Kevin is the CEO of Lighthouse Sales Advisors. Lighthouse Sales Advisors is a sales leadership solution provider for small businesses. Lighthouse helps business owners navigate the potential pitfalls around sales growth, sales turnaround, or scaling up by leveraging sales acumen and decades of experience to build effective sales teams. https://www.lighthousesalesadvisors.com/

Sean is the CEO of New Sales Expert. He helps company owners realize the maximum value of their company by improving their revenue generation capability. He helps owners enhance their sales management, methodologies, processes, teams, and messaging.

Contact Sean

You can learn more about Sean O’Shaughnessey at www.NewSales.Expert. You can drop him an email at Sean@NewSales.Expert. You can connect with Sean on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/soshaughnessey/


Embark on transforming your sales approach with Sean O’Shaughnessey’s expertise. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and actionable steps to elevate your understanding of competitive analysis and its application in sales. Tune in to shift your perspective from just another salesperson to a strategic, value-driven partner in your client’s success.