How to Succeed Podcast

In this episode, we dive deep into understanding your sales capacity, capability, and competencies with our esteemed guest, Markku Kauppinen, CEO of Extended Disc North America. Markku, a frequent guest on our show, brings exciting news about a new collaboration between Sandler and Extended Disc: the Sales Capacity Assessment. The conversation explores the Sales Excuse Index, a metric that quantifies excuse-making behavior among sales professionals. Markku emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing these tendencies to enhance sales performance.  As the discussion progresses, we discuss balancing strengths and weaknesses in sales, highlighting the need for persistence and prioritizing achievement over mere activity for long-term business success.   Timestamps:   00:00:00 - Introduction to Sales Capacity Assessment 00:05:30 - Importance of Assessments in Sales 00:08:28 - Attitude Towards Excuse Making 00:11:42 - Benchmarking Competencies 00:14:53 - Key Sales Competencies 00:16:20 - Difference Between Behaviors and Competencies 00:19:21 - Team Training and Individual Development 00:22:50 - Defining Success in Career 00:27:56 - Overcoming Challenges in Career Key Takeaways: Assessments like the Sales Capacity Assessment aid in hiring, training, and development. It provides insights into an applicant's natural behaviors and sales competencies, facilitating better hiring decisions. The assessment evaluates behavioral styles and competency levels in various sales areas. The Excuse Index within the assessment measures excuse-making tendencies and highlights areas for improvement. Benchmarking compares team performance against industry standards, crucial for the assessment process. It identifies both strengths and weaknesses, enabling targeted development plans. Individual learning paths can be tailored based on assessment results to address specific improvement areas. The assessment can be retaken every six months to monitor progress and adjust development plans. Success in sales involves balancing strengths with development areas. Consistent focus on critical sales activities is essential for achieving success. =========================================   SUBSCRIBE: https://podfollow.com/howtosucceed Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment!   =========================================   Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr   =========================================

In this episode of the How to Succeed Podcast, social selling expert Richard Bliss from BlissPoint Consulting shares valuable insights on succeeding at social selling on LinkedIn. The discussion covers the evolution of LinkedIn as the go-to platform, emphasizing its ubiquity compared to other social media platforms. Listeners will gain practical tips on leveraging LinkedIn to generate leads, enhance their pipeline, and optimize social selling strategies.  Bliss explains that the algorithm on LinkedIn is designed to trigger conversations between members, unlike other social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, which are more focused on entertainment. He points out that the algorithm on LinkedIn rewards meaningful interactions that lead to conversations rather than simply garnering likes or views. This shift in mindset is crucial for salespeople looking to succeed on the platform. Tune in to learn how to navigate the changing landscape of social selling and maximize your results on LinkedIn.   Timestamps:    00:02:47 The upside-down world of social selling. 00:06:03 LinkedIn content engagement strategies. 00:08:37 LinkedIn sales strategies. 00:11:15 Commenting for Sales Success. 00:14:33 LinkedIn networking strategies. 00:19:14 Underrated sales prospecting techniques. 00:22:27 Cold email techniques. 00:27:28 Engaging sales team strategy. 00:31:13 Overcoming career setback. 00:34:21 Leadership and communication skills. Key Highlights: LinkedIn has become the go-to platform for social selling, with widespread adoption among professionals. The purpose of LinkedIn is to connect with prospects and customers and build relationships, rather than entertain or distract. The algorithm on LinkedIn is designed to trigger conversations between members, unlike other social media platforms. Posting text-only content on LinkedIn generates more reach and engagement compared to videos or graphics. Engaging in conversations by leaving comments on prospects' posts is more effective than sending direct messages or connection requests. Leveraging the mentioned feature on LinkedIn can grab the attention of prospects without directly reaching out to them. Sales Navigator can be a valuable tool for tracking and finding prospects, but it should be used in conjunction with understanding the fundamentals of LinkedIn. Using AI tools like ChatGPT can help generate ideas for comments and responses to prospects' posts. Authentic engagement and conversations with prospects are more important than trying to cheat the algorithm or use specific posting techniques. Success in social selling on LinkedIn is measured by the number of people you can help and the level of enjoyment you derive from your work.   =========================================   SUBSCRIBE: https://podfollow.com/howtosucceed Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment!   =========================================   Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr   =========================================

In this episode, we discuss buying a franchise with Josh Dubois. Most people consider business ownership to replace income or build generational wealth. Franchising fast-tracks starting a business by providing systems and resources. Josh recommends exploring options over 1-2 months without pressure to decide. He outlines the process of researching franchises, speaking with owners, reviewing financials, and managing expectations. We emphasize having a strong "why" and taking extreme ownership as a franchisee. Success requires being known in the community, following the playbook, and having a positive attitude.   Josh's father transitioned from long hours in the restaurant industry to owning a dry cleaning franchise, which allowed him to attend Josh's games and eventually become a CEO. This lifestyle change inspired Josh to pursue business ownership before becoming a franchise broker to help others without promoting any specific franchise. He lives by "conquer the mind" – being conscious and positive to manifest goals.   Timestamps: 02:05 Why pick franchising over starting your own business? 04:58 Lifestyle and legacy in franchising 10:14 Lifestyle freedom in franchising 12:09 The buying process and common mistakes 17:08 Getting started and being successful 19:41 Managing expectations between franchisor and franchisee 21:22 Taking extreme ownership 23:23 Tips, tricks, and hacks for buying a franchise 25:00 You don't need to decide today   Key Takeaways:   Spend 1-2 months exploring franchise options to make an informed choice. Research thoroughly: talk to owners and review financials. A strong "why" drives motivation and focus. Extreme ownership means fully committing to the franchise’s success. Being known in your community benefits your business. Follow the franchise's systems and guidelines. Maintain a positive attitude to overcome challenges. Personal experiences can inspire and guide business decisions. Hands-on ownership experience helps in advising others. A positive mindset, or "conquer the mind," is crucial for achieving goals. SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment!   ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================

In this episode, we discussed the crucial importance of assessing and developing sales capacity to drive business success. We prioritized the need for sales development and defined what constitutes success in this area. We explored how assessments can uncover valuable insights into natural sales behaviors and competencies. We shared examples of effective sales development strategies and introduced the Sandler Training's Sales Capacity Assessment as a powerful tool for self-improvement and performance measurement. Timestamps: 00:10: Using assessments to evaluate sales capacity, identify natural behaviors, and improve development.  05:06: Sales assessments, excuse making, and personal growth. 8:52 The Impact of Excuse Making on Sales Performance 12:13 Optimizing Sales Teams Through Benchmarking and Personalized Development 22:50 Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses in Personal Development 25:25 Defining Success and Overcoming Challenges in Business   Key Takeaways:  Assessments play a crucial role in avoiding costly hiring mistakes, providing accurate information about a candidate's natural behaviors and sales competencies. Benchmarking sales competencies help identify areas for development and tailor training programs to enhance sales team performance effectively. Understanding the balance between behavioral tendencies and skill development is key to maximizing individual and team success in sales roles. Excuse index scores offer valuable insights into sales professionals' focus on sales activities, highlighting areas for improvement and increased productivity. Utilizing individual learning paths based on assessment results can lead to   ========================================= SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment! ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================  

In this episode, we delve deep into the pervasive and often debilitating experience of imposter syndrome with Gary Frey. Gary Frey challenges the notion that feeling like a fraud is unique to a select few, revealing its prevalence across various industries and career stages. Through open and honest conversation, we explore the root causes of imposter syndrome, including self-doubt, fear of failure, and the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations. Gary shares personal experiences, offering relatable insights and practical strategies for overcoming these challenges. By emphasizing self-compassion, building resilience, and cultivating a growth mindset, we empower listeners to challenge their inner critic and unlock their full potential. Moreover, we discuss the importance of work-life balance, the dangers of burnout, and the necessity of prioritizing personal well-being. By fostering a culture of open dialogue about mental health, we aim to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive both professionally and personally. Timestamps: 00:10: Imposter syndrome and its impact on high achievers, including C-suite executives and celebrities.  07:13: Impostor syndrome, self-doubt, and behavior in sales and leadership.  11:51: Finding the balance between career and personal life to overcome imposter syndrome.  18:03: Embracing uniqueness and niching down to find success.  22:59: Overcoming imposter syndrome and defining success through core values and purpose.  28:36: The importance of gratitude and resilience in the face of adversity.    Key Takeaways:  Recognizing and acknowledging imposter syndrome is the first step towards overcoming it. Thriving in your strengths and minimizing or outsourcing weaknesses can help combat imposter syndrome. The importance of authenticity, resilience, and finding gratitude in challenging circumstances is emphasized. Practical strategies, like the "Thrive or Wither" approach and gratitude journaling, are recommended for silencing self-doubt. Niche down to unlock unique strengths, resist the usual, and make a positive difference without conforming to societal expectations. Success is defined by integrity, humility, and the ability to make a positive impact in the lives of others.   ========================================= SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment! ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================

In this captivating episode, we delve into the often-overlooked potential within organizations: the 'hidden salesforce'. We explore strategies for unlocking this hidden talent pool, emphasizing the importance of cultivating curiosity and providing the necessary tools for sales success. The episode underscores the delicate balance between technical proficiency and sales acumen, highlighting the need for thoughtful, informative conversations over aggressive sales tactics. By redefining the role of technical teams and integrating them into the broader business strategy, organizations can harness their full potential and drive significant growth. Timestamps: 03:44 Discussion on hidden sales potential in professional services firms. 08:08: When to involve technical experts in sales meetings. 13:50: Unlocking hidden sales force by redefining technical teams' purpose. 19:03: Techniques for technical professionals to have meaningful conversations with clients. 22:51: Empowering teams to ask hard questions and grow business. 28:00: Sales techniques, personal growth, and networking.   Key Takeaways:  Redefine technical teams' purpose to focus on business growth, not just delivery. Empower technical teams to ask challenging questions and uncover opportunities. Prioritize high-potential leads through upfront qualification. Cultivate a culture of curiosity and inquiry to deepen client relationships. Invest time in understanding client challenges for effective solution tailoring. Overcome sales aversion by reframing sales as value delivery and knowledge sharing. Use powerful questioning to uncover client pain points and aspirations. Share industry insights to position yourself as a trusted advisor. ========================================= SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment! ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================

In this insightful episode featuring Tiffany and Brad Koettels, we emphasized the pivotal role of DISC behavioral styles in navigating the complexities of sales, business, and personal relationships. Beyond recognizing the importance of understanding diverse communication preferences, we delved into the practical applications of DISC in real-world scenarios. From refining sales strategies to building stronger teams and fostering deeper connections, the podcast explored how to leverage DISC insights to achieve greater success. By dispelling common misconceptions and providing actionable advice, we aimed to empower listeners to harness the power of behavioral understanding in their personal and professional lives. Learning how to communicate effectively with different styles can transform your relationships and business interactions.   Timestamps: 0:11 How to Succeed with the Do's and Don'ts of DISC 4:14 Adapting Leadership and Sales Styles for Team Success 11:15 Adapting Communication Styles for Effective Team Collaboration 15:52 Understanding Personality Types for Better Workplace Relationships 19:21 Effective Communication Strategies for C Styles in Sales Teams 22:57 The Impact of DISC Training on Company Culture 25:37 Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses in Leadership and Parenting 27:45 Transforming Relationships and Sales with Sandler and DISC Training 29:54 Using DISC Styles to Improve Family Dynamics 32:49 Learning to Fail to Win in Sales and Life   Key Takeaways:  Platinum Rule is to treat others how they want to be treated, focusing on their preferences. Building a team with various behavioral styles enhances performance. Effective communication involves understanding others' perspectives and adjusting accordingly. Recognizing that behavioral styles are not fixed and can be adapted. Balancing strengths by leveraging the strengths of different styles to create high-performing teams. ========================================= SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment!   ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================

In this insightful episode, we delve into the world of pain points in sales with Emily Shaw, we tackle common misconceptions, like treating pain as a mere formality. Then, we emphasize the power of genuine curiosity and creating a safe space for prospects to reveal their emotional drivers. We'll also talk about questioning techniques to make sales conversations more productive and empower prospects with informed decision-making. So, buckle up as we explore the art of uncovering pain points and fostering meaningful connections in the sales process. Learn how to create a safe space where they feel comfortable revealing their emotional drivers. But it doesn't stop there! We'll also bring in another sales leader to dissect powerful questioning techniques with Emily Timestamps: 00:03 Common mistakes in using pain in sales, including checklist mentality and lack of curiosity. 06:45 Identifying and addressing pain points in sales conversations. 11:07 Finding and articulating pain points in sales calls. 18:50 Sales techniques, including finding and quantifying pain points.   Key Takeaways:  Treat pain discovery as a genuine attempt to understand prospects, not a checkbox exercise. Uncover the prospect's emotionally compelling reason to act by creating psychological safety. Use upfront contracts and follow-up questions to make sales conversations more productive. Ask quantification questions to help prospects gain clarity and make informed decisions. Pay attention to emotional cues to identify pain points at any stage of the sales call. Articulate the impact of a problem on both the business and the individual personally. Give prospects agency over the decision-making process while providing guidance. ========================================= SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment! ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================  

In this episode, we dive deep into operationalizing Sandler Training for sales success. Daniel, a dedicated Sandler practitioner for over a decade, shares his journey of building and recruiting high-performing teams through this method. We also gained insights from Mike and another sales leader who implemented Sandler principles within their organizations. They discuss overcoming personal hurdles to achievement by leveraging data and self-awareness. The conversation underscores the importance of consistent application, a shared vision that unites the team, and the power of human connection, even when facing inevitable challenges. Timestamps: 00:13 Operationalizing Sandler Training for sales success.  04:26 Sales coaching and attitude, with a focus on emotional steps and buyer psychology.  08:24 Operationalizing Sandler sales methodology using data, metrics, and tools to improve efficiency and win rate.  15:28 Operationalizing sales process with playbooks, testing, and team enablement.  20:33 Sales techniques, growth strategies, and personal development with a Sandler trainer.    Key Takeaways:  Leverage Sandler Selling with upfront contracts, regular check-ins, and call evaluations to cultivate a positive sales team. Crush personal barriers by making data-driven decisions and being aware of your own biases. Consistency is key! Repetition and a shared vision are crucial for long-term sales success, but don't forget human management for those tough days. Coaching boosts performance. Weekly affirmations, feedback, and positive reinforcement are your friends. Data optimizes sales. Use metrics and tools to enhance the Sandler methodology, and explore the potential of AI to give your sales team an extra edge. Playbooks and testing reign supreme. Documented processes and experimentation are the keys to sales mastery.   ========================================= SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment! ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================  

In a fascinating episode, Kallie delved into the powerful world of behavioral science, revealing its surprising influence on our purchasing decisions. We often think we make rational choices, but as Kallie explained, unconscious biases and emotional triggers often hold the reins. This insightful discussion highlighted the key to successful marketing and sales: striking a perfect balance between logic and emotion. By leveraging psychological factors like loss aversion and availability bias, businesses can craft messages that resonate deeply with potential customers. Kallie emphasized the importance of creating an emotional connection, understanding that we buy not just products, but the feelings associated with them. The episode also offered practical techniques for building trust and persuading potential clients. Addressing concerns, setting clear expectations, and employing qualifying questions that empower prospects – all these elements were identified as crucial for successful sales conversations. Timestamps: 00:13 Improving sales performance in large enterprises, debunking misconceptions about training and attitude. 04:43 Sales training, attitude, and behavior change in an enterprise organization. 09:36 Changing behaviors in sales training, emphasizing specificity and safety. 14:23 Sales techniques for enterprise organizations, including upfront contracts and creating a common language. 19:39 Sales techniques, including reframing attitudes towards pricing and negotiation. 23:42 Sales strategies, failures, and success with an enterprise facilitator.   Key Takeaways:  Focus on behavior, attitude, and technique training to improve enterprise sales performance. Cultivate personal responsibility and desire for improvement in sales teams. Identify and change specific uncomfortable behaviors through targeted exercises. Create a safe learning environment that encourages risk-taking and gradual improvement. Establish a common language and unified selling methodology across the organization. Reframe pricing conversations as impact discussions to overcome negotiation challenges. Internalize the success triangle of attitudes, behaviors, and techniques for personal growth. Practice authentic, direct communication to connect meaningfully with clients and colleagues. ========================================= SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Z0s7ZInq7pa2sYHDc6fw_V7T6mb657f&feature=shared  Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a comment! ========================================= Follow Us:  Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandlerTraining  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/sandler-training/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandlertraining/  Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/sandlertraining/?_rdc=1&_rdr =========================================