[Stage] The Blueprint for Modern Selling (with John Klymshyn)

Nov 24, 2025

In this engaging discussion, John Klymshyn, a seasoned speaker and coach, emphasizes the critical role of authentic connection in sales amidst an AI-dominated landscape. He advocates for a mindset shift towards curiosity, revealing how precision language and inviting questions can energize conversations. John shares insights on leading sales with empathy rather than pressure, the significance of consistent follow-up, and the power of personalized video. His advice to new sales reps includes embracing a five-year mindset and understanding the joy in the pursuit of success.

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INSIGHT

Humanity Trumps Automation

People buy from people, not companies, so leaning on AI risks distancing sellers from human connection.
Mindset — being authentic, transparent, and unapologetic — is the foundation for standing out in sales.

ADVICE

Define Who You Choose To Serve

Define how you want to be perceived and build an ideal-client personality profile using five precise words.
Use those five words as a filter to decide if a prospect aligns with who you choose to do business with.

ADVICE

Ask Questions That Invite Next Steps

Avoid closed yes/no questions; rephrase in real time to open questions using who/what/when/where/why/how/which.
Ask questions that invite next steps rather than seeking permission to move the conversation forward.

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In this episode of Take the Stage, Brad Bialy sits down with John Klymshyn to explore how sales professionals can reclaim humanity, curiosity, and authentic connection in an AI-driven staffing world.

About the Guest

John Klymshyn is a renowned speaker, coach, and author who has spent more than 27 years helping staffing organizations unlock creativity, sharpen their message, and elevate leadership through authentic communication. His work blends business practicality with creative play, empowering teams to sell with curiosity and conviction. Amazon Author Page

Key Takeaways

Authenticity is a competitive advantage.
Curiosity moves conversations forward.
Precision of language shapes outcomes.
Consistency beats urgency.
Practice makes prepared.

Timestamps

[00:34] – Why AI can’t replace human connection
[02:14] – The mindset shift sellers must make
[04:04] – Bringing your authentic self into sales
[07:47] – Asking better questions that invite the next step
[09:37] – How to remove “commission breath”
[12:36] – Leading with curiosity instead of pressure
[13:55] – Selling through down markets without fear
[17:33] – The real math behind modern follow-up
[21:24] – Why personalized video still disrupts
[24:19] – Honor your commitments and keep showing up
[29:23] – Practice makes prepared, not perfect
[38:16] – A five-year mindset for new sales reps

About the Host

Brad Bialy is a trusted voice and highly sought-after speaker in the staffing and recruiting industry, known for helping firms grow through integrated marketing, sales, and recruiting strategies. With over 13 years at Haley Marketing and a proven track record guiding hundreds of firms, Brad brings deep expertise and a fresh, actionable perspective to every engagement. He’s the host of Take the Stage and InSights, two of the staffing industry’s leading podcasts with more than 200,000 downloads.

Sponsors and Offers Heard

Take the Stage is presented by Haley Marketing. The old way of selling staffing is dead. Let’s fix it – with smarter strategies and HUGE DISCOUNTS on modern lead gen tools: https://bit.ly/Bialy20

Book a 30-minute business and marketing consultation with host, Brad Bialy: https://bit.ly/Bialy30