Revenue Builders

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan, sponsored by Force Management, delve into the crucial aspect of decision criteria in sales. Joined by Anne Gary, the team dissects the intricacies of aligning decision criteria with product differentiation to secure sales success. From handling competition to managing scope creep, they provide invaluable insights into navigating the sales landscape with precision.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:35] Understanding how competitors may adopt your terminology highlights the importance of clarifying distinctions in customer conversations.[00:01:26] Identifying who within the company influences decision criteria sheds light on the political dynamics of the sales process.[00:02:03] Aligning product differentiators with decision criteria ensures that customers are truly buying what you're selling.[00:03:04] Formalizing and quantifying decision criteria is essential to avoid ambiguity and ensure accountability.[00:04:38] Scope creep occurs when additional criteria are introduced, increasing the risk of losing the deal.[00:06:43] Failing to define criteria rigorously can lead to irreversible setbacks, especially evident in failed Proof of Value (POV) scenarios.[00:07:48] After a failed POV, complaining appears futile as it disregards agreed-upon rules and may damage credibility with the evaluation team and economic buyer.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:21] "If you're outside of the bullseye, they're not buying what you're selling."[00:04:58] "It's a seller's job to get the criteria to be... in their bullseye."[00:06:43] "If you execute the POV and you haven't locked all this down... it's nearly impossible to recover from a failed POV."[00:07:48] "Even if you did it again... you'd wind up losing again."Listen to the full episode with Anne Gary through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/decoding-decision-criteria-mastering-champions-blueprint-for-sales-success-with-anne-gary/Check out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Monica Stewart is a highly sought-after go-to-market consultant with over 15 years of experience working with B2B software companies. She specializes in helping startups in the $2 million to $20 million revenue range that are selling to large organizations. Monica has worked with companies like LinkedIn, Trello (acquired by Atlassian), and Panjiva (acquired by S&P). She is known for her sustainable growth-focused mindset and her ability to help companies bridge the gap between their current strategy and their long-term vision.In this episode, Monica shares valuable insights and discusses common mistakes made by startups, such as not targeting their ideal customer profile (ICP) specifically enough, lacking a clear understanding of lead channels, and neglecting net dollar retention (NRR) metrics. She emphasizes the importance of narrowing the ICP, prioritizing lead channels, and implementing effective post-sale processes for long-term success. Monica also highlights the need for founders to be open to change and willing to reevaluate their strategies as their companies evolve.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[02:08] Monica's Approach to Transforming B2B Startups[05:28] Common Mistakes in B2B Startup Growth Strategies[15:34] Deep Dive into Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) Strategy[20:31] The Importance of Narrowing Focus in Startup Strategy[27:20] Understanding the Three Whys of Buying[30:58] Navigating Leadership and Team Dynamics in Business[31:38] The Importance of Being Present and Adaptable in Leadership[34:48] Strategies for Effective Team Management and Role Alignment[36:00] Embracing Change and Coachability for Organizational Growth[37:10] The Founder's Journey: Vision, Commitment, and Self-Awareness[45:39] Practical Advice for Founders on Prioritizing and Implementing Change[56:40] Understanding the Role of VCs and Owning Your Business NarrativeADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyPConnect and learn more about Monica Stewart.https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-stewart/https://www.linkedin.com/company/msps-co/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:53:46] "It's really the founder and it has to be because at the end of the day, there's a tremendous amount of commitment and buy-in that's going to be needed from them in order to do this work."[00:56:23] "VC firms don't give companies money because they think that company is going to succeed, or even because they necessarily need it to succeed. They give companies money because they want to spread their risk out amongst a broad portfolio. And they know that a good percentage of the companies that they invest in are going to fail."[00:55:53] "Once you see it, you can't unsee it. And it changes the way that you look at your organization forever." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Chuck Bamford, renowned author and business strategist. Dr. Bamford sheds light on the critical issue of aligning corporate strategy throughout an organization, from top-level executives to frontline employees. Drawing from his extensive experience, he highlights the common pitfalls and challenges companies face in achieving this alignment and offers insightful strategies for overcoming them.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:24] Alignment breakdown: Many employees, especially those closest to customers, often fail to see the relevance of corporate strategy to their daily tasks, leading to a disconnect between organizational goals and individual actions.[00:01:39] Annual strategy setting: Corporate strategies are often formulated as a one-time event, lacking consistent follow-up, measurement, and adaptation throughout the year.[00:02:23] Activity alignment: Bridging the gap between high-level key performance indicators (KPIs) and frontline activities is essential for ensuring organizational alignment and success.[00:03:29] Misaligned incentives: Compensation structures and performance metrics for employees often do not align with the overarching corporate strategy, resulting in disengagement and inefficiencies.[00:05:13] Alignment is key: Success in organizational strategy hinges on effectively communicating and aligning goals at all levels, ensuring that both strategic objectives and individual incentives are harmonized.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:45] "Everything that leadership does is a hypothesis... they don't want to address what the activities are or convert it to activity metrics."[00:03:52] "I was so disconnected from those other levels... my measurements and compensation were completely misaligned with whatever the corporate strategy was."[00:05:38] "The compensation needs to be based on the activities that you want those employees to do."[00:07:00] "They're doing things that are destructive to the strategy... because they have to hit their KPI or they're out."Listen to the full episode with Chuck Bamford through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/executing-a-winning-strategy-with-chuck-bamford/Check out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

James Underhill is the Senior Director of Sales Operations and Strategy at MongoDB. He started his career as a pre-sales engineer at Videology and later spent two years at Twitter as a Revenue Operations Analyst. Since joining MongoDB, James has been promoted four times and now leads the Sales Innovation team.In this episode, John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by James Underhill to discuss the potential impact of AI on sales. They explore how AI can enhance sales productivity by automating time-consuming tasks and providing valuable insights. James breaks down the different stages of the sales process and explains how AI can be leveraged to improve territory management, discovery, preparation, coaching and forecasting. He emphasizes the importance of combining AI with human skills and highlights the need for curiosity, critical thinking, and a customer-centric approach in sales. The conversation also touches on the potential changes in the buying experience as AI becomes more prevalent in sales.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:04:42] Importance of combining IQ and EQ in leveraging AI tools[00:08:11] The role of human elements and trust in the sales process[00:11:15] Traditional territory management problem and the use of AI in contextualizing data[00:12:42] AI can assist with knowledge procurement and enablement for new reps[00:14:58] AI can aid in equitable territory management and hold managers accountable[00:21:00] AI can automate the process of gathering foundational information, but reps still need curiosity and hunger to progress in the sales cycle[00:22:21] AI will expose bottom reps and decrease ramp time[00:25:01] AI enables instant coaching and on-demand knowledge[00:34:08] AI can help transfer knowledge and boost productivity in sales[00:46:09] Warm introductions becoming more meaningful in salesADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyPConnect and learn more about James Underhill.https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-underhill-ba22313b/https://www.linkedin.com/company/mongodbinc/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:54:42] "Are they planning a merger with another company and they're going to go bonkers? Are they launching a new product? Like it's hard to predict that. And so that's where the human element is really important."[00:55:08] "And now I'm taking that information and then I can have, I can use an assistant of sorts or a tool to help me understand how that translates into what you're going to pay over time. But it's not going to tell me, Hey, James, they're going to bill this over this time period. That's unlikely." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we dive into the complexities of scaling Product Led Growth (PLG) models with guest Oliver Jay, former Product Led Sales leader at Dropbox and CRO at Asana. In this insightful conversation, they explore the nuances of PLG, its effectiveness in different market landscapes, and the strategies required to navigate its scalability challenges. From understanding the dominance dynamics in PLG markets to dissecting the intricacies of selling to end-users versus enterprise buyers, this episode offers invaluable insights for companies looking to leverage PLG for accelerated sales performance.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:00] PLG dominance dynamics: In PLG markets, the winner typically garners 80% market share due to the model's viral nature.[00:01:50] Challenges for non-leading PLG companies: Companies beyond the top two struggle to gain traction and should consider pivoting towards enterprise-focused strategies.[00:02:49] PLG's compatibility with enterprise sales: While PLG excels with end-users, scaling to enterprise level introduces complexities due to the lack of traditional enterprise sales infrastructure.[00:05:04] Hybrid approach for PLG scalability: Successful PLG companies often combine PLG with sales-led growth, using PLG to seed accounts and leveraging sales teams for enterprise deals.[00:08:30] Layered nature of PLG scalability: Scaling PLG resembles building a multi-layered cake, with each layer representing different levels of customer engagement and sales complexity.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:26] "If you're like number three, four, five, six... the wind is not going to be behind your sails. Might as well tweak your product to be a bit more enterprise from day one."[00:04:45] "A lot of companies... seed the account with end users, then back it up with sales-led growth... to get an enterprise purchase order."[00:08:30] "Building a PLG company over time... you have a strawberry shortbread bottom, you have a chocolate middle, you have a tiramisu top. It just keeps going."Listen to the full episode with Oliver Jay through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/product-led-growth-in-b2b-sales-with-oliver-jayCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode, John McMahon and John Kaplan discuss the process of champion building in B2B sales. They emphasize the importance of identifying potential champions early in the sales process and developing strong relationships with them. They also highlight the need for sales reps to earn trust, educate champions, and provide value throughout the sales cycle. The episode explores various strategies for testing champions and collaborating with them to achieve successful outcomes.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:00:42] Definition and importance of champions in sales[00:06:00] Definition of a champion: power, influence, and vested interest[00:09:13] Indications of power and influence in a potential champion[00:11:17] Building trust and uncovering information through precise questioning[00:21:46] Differentiating between a coach and a champion[00:23:33] Importance of authority and influence in the sales process[00:29:19] Developing coaches by educating them, aligning them with critical business issues, and connecting them with executives[00:34:11] Adding value to champions throughout the process builds trust and confidence[00:37:21] Sales leaders should measure accomplishment, not just activity[00:52:13] Setting clear criteria and expectations to prevent competition from changing the rulesADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyP HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:58:47] "It starts to become really collaborative because they're now on your team, like we talked about, and they're part of your team. They have invested interest in it. They have personally winning it, whether it's recognition, approval, control, money."[01:00:42] "If I truly have somebody that is the definition of a champion, where they have power and influence, they're actively selling on my behalf, and they have a vested interest in my success, and I understand that happens over time, but if I truly have the markings and the identification of somebody like this, I'm not alone." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we delve into the nuances of hiring effective leaders for various growth stages within companies. Joined by Bill Cea, Managing Director at Foster Beck Associates, the discussion navigates through the distinct requirements of sales personnel and Chief Revenue Officers (CROs) across product market fit, deal stage, and scale stage. From debunking conventional job descriptions to unraveling the myths of hiring from big-name companies, the conversation provides invaluable insights into assembling the right sales team for sustainable growth.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:14] Product Market Fit Stage: Initial job descriptions often lack relevance; insights from product and engineering teams are crucial for identifying the right salesperson tailored to the product and market needs.[00:02:45] Warning Signs of Misalignment: Inconsistencies in the backgrounds of sales team members can signal organizational issues; diverse backgrounds without a common thread indicate potential problems.[00:03:25] Importance of Early-Stage Expertise: Startups require individuals capable of building from scratch; hiring from established entities may not align with the demands of early-stage growth.[00:04:07] The Fallacy of Big-Name Hires: Hiring from renowned companies doesn't guarantee success; candidates considering both startups and established firms may lack commitment to the startup's demands.[00:06:33] Aligning Expectations: Transparent communication about the challenges and expectations of a role is essential to prevent disillusionment and turnover.[00:07:52] Navigating Deal and Scale Stages: Accelerated hiring plans demand individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset; excessive hiring can lead to revenue dilution and dissatisfaction among sales teams.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:27] "If the sellers all look differently... there's something wrong... That's the 1st warning sign."[00:03:06] "You need somebody who truly understands how to develop something from nothing."[00:04:07] "Hiring a name brand... is the absolute opposite... It's a safer bet, bigger company, which completely is the absolute opposite, right?"[00:06:33] "Transparent communication... is essential to prevent disillusionment and turnover."[00:07:52] "Excessive hiring can lead to revenue dilution... dissatisfaction among sales teams."Listen to the full episode with Bill Cea through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/hiring-for-growth-strategies-for-scaling-sales-teams-with-bill-cea/Check out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode, Mark Banfield, CEO of 1E, discusses the emerging market of Digital Employee Experience (DEX). He explains how 1E's technology monitors and manages the digital experience of employees on their devices, identifying and remedying issues before they impact productivity. Mark emphasizes the importance of providing a great employee experience, as it directly translates to a great customer experience. He also highlights the role of technical and executive champions in driving the adoption of DEX solutions. The conversation delves into the measurement of DEX, the impact on IT service desks, and the potential for cost savings and productivity gains. Mark shares insights on building trust with customers, the value of authenticity, and the significance of every employee's role in the organization.Tune in and learn more about this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:03:03] Introduction to digital employee experience (DEX) and its importance[00:04:30] How DEX is measured and its impact on employee productivity[00:07:37] Cost savings and efficiency gains through DEX[00:11:39] The impact of digital friction on employee morale and retention[00:12:08] Addressing onboarding challenges with new applications[00:13:54] The digital adoption platform is a white hot space with great opportunities[00:16:02] The executive champion is usually a VP of infrastructure, end user computing, or digital workplace[00:23:45] Building trust and relationships with customers is crucial in sales[00:34:02] Transitioning from a CRO to a CEO role requires accountability and adapting to new responsibilities[00:44:57] Importance of projecting a future for individuals to see themselves inADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyPConnect and learn more about Mark Banfield.https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbanfield/https://www.linkedin.com/company/1e/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:55:25] "There's no shortcuts. One of the four values in OneE is belief. And I put that value in place when I got here, because I thought, in my view, that whether you think you can or whether you think you can't, you're right."[00:56:00] "There are no shortcuts to success, it's about putting in the work and pushing yourself."[00:57:43] "There's no elevator for success. You have to take the stairs." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we dive into the intricacies of decision-making, the role of intuition versus data, and the importance of checking one's ego with special guest, Brian McCarthy, Chief Revenue Officer at Rubrik. Brian shares insightful perspectives on how to blend gut instincts with data-driven approaches, the significance of being secure in one's decisions, and the value of course correction when needed. Through candid discussions and personal anecdotes, listeners gain valuable insights into effective leadership strategies and sales performance optimization.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:29] Intuition in Decision-Making: Brian discusses the significance of listening to one's gut instincts alongside analyzing data when making critical decisions.[00:02:11] Ego and Decision-Making: The importance of separating ego from decisions, being open to course correction based on new data, and avoiding ego-driven attachment to decisions.[00:03:33] Integrating Data and Intuition: Brian highlights the importance of considering both data-driven insights and gut instincts, along with input from key individuals, to make informed decisions and drive organizational success.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:00:49] "They give me the data and I just, I hear them. Sounds like there's a logical solution, but my gut just is something in my stomach... I just don't feel like I want to make the decision now."[00:02:30] "Get your ego out of the way and just change [the decision]... I've always found it's okay to make a decision based upon the data that you have."[00:03:54] "If you're really listening, you're listening to what the data tells you, you're listening to what your eyes are telling you, what your gut tells you... and then quickly execute."Listen to the full episode with Brian McCarthy through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/what-the-best-sales-leaders-do-with-brian-mccarthyCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Mark Wendling is the Global VP of Data Cloud Sales and Alliances at Snowflake. He has a successful career in sales and has held various leadership positions in companies like S.C., Michael Page International, East Search Vision, ClearSlide, and Sumo Logic. Mark has been with Snowflake for the past seven years and has played a crucial role in scaling the company's sales organization.In this episode, Mark shares insights into how Snowflake organizes its commercial sales teams and the key skills young sellers need to learn. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the customer's pain points and metrics, rather than just selling the product. Mark also discusses the significance of memory in sales, the value of being coachable, and the power of creating a vision for customers. He highlights the importance of tracking meaningful metrics and shares his approach to negotiation and pricing. Additionally, Mark provides advice on scaling sales teams and the importance of focusing on the ideal customer profile.Tune in and learn more about this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:03] Overview of Snowflake's commercial sales organization[00:11:08] Command of the message framework for social selling[00:12:07] Focusing on positive business outcomes and creating a vision[00:15:08] Drive, memory, and coachability as important characteristics[00:18:04] Using MEDDICC for qualifying and forecasting[00:21:21] Coaching reps to understand and influence metrics[00:23:02] The importance of reps knowing how they are measured[00:24:45] Focusing on the answers you need, not just want[00:27:29] Focusing on what you receive, not what you send[00:28:20] Top reasons for deals going awry: lack of a champion and failure to identify pain points[00:31:45] Understanding what matters to the customer and prioritizing give-get scenarios[00:34:10] The importance of memory and being prepared with give-gets[00:37:08] Need for exit criteria before moving to the next stage[00:39:53] Importance of having multiple paths to reach sales targets[00:48:22] Importance of equitable division of potential accounts[00:56:49] Educating reps on the risks and challenges of career advancementADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyPConnect and learn more about Mark Wendling.https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-wendling-0b1503/https://www.linkedin.com/company/snowflake-computing/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:19:50] "It's not about the answers you want, it's about the answers you need."[00:25:02] "It's not about what you say. It's about all the signals that you receive and what you do with them."[00:32:45] "If you try to sell Snowflake, you're going to fail. If you sell change, you are going to succeed." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we talk burnout with Marcy Stoudt CEO and co-founder of Revel Coach. Marcy helps leaders avoid burnout, become their best selves without sacrificing success in either area. In this segment she covers a few tips to avoiding burnout.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:27] Burnout affects individuals beyond just moms, particularly leaders who lose perspective and struggle to lead effectively when overwhelmed.[00:01:45] Your attitude towards upcoming challenges greatly influences burnout; maintaining a positive mindset is key.[00:02:25] Adopt a daily practice of living "above the line," clarifying your vision and taking action aligned with your desired self.[00:04:36] Recognize and address negative events and emotions that contribute to burnout, working to stay "above the line."[00:05:55] Clear clutter from your schedule, aligning commitments with your vision of success and avoiding unnecessary tasks.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:03] "There's a fine line between working too hard and being addicted... It's real and you can't generically say how to prevent it."[00:02:47] "Living above the line... You're defining who you want to be more often."[00:05:19] "Clearing clutter from her calendar is really important and just doing it to align to her vision of success with no comparison."[00:07:34] "Being honest with yourself about the addiction... my inability to extricate myself... became a self-fulfilling prophecy."Listen to the full episode with Marcy Stoudt through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/mastering-work-life-balance-with-marcy-stoudtCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

John Jahnke, CEO of Tackle.io, has 20 years of experience in executive leadership roles. John has worked with companies like Pivotal, Greenplum, EMC, and Cognizant.Jake Simpson, CRO of Tackle.io, has led companies through substantial growth phases as the CRO of Anapsis and Catalan Technologies.In this episode, John Jahnke and Jake Simpson, discuss the emergence of cloud marketplaces as a route to market for software companies. They explain how cloud marketplaces, such as AWS, Microsoft, and Google, provide an avenue for ISVs (Independent Software Vendors) to align their sales with cloud providers and tap into the growing cloud budget. The guests highlight the benefits of using cloud marketplaces, including easier access to cloud budget, seamless transaction execution, and the ability to leverage strategic relationships with cloud providers. They also emphasize the importance of understanding the cloud ecosystem and building a cloud go-to-market strategy to take advantage of this high-growth channel. Tune in and learn more about this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:07:21] Using cloud credits to purchase software on the marketplace[00:11:38] Marketplace becoming a common channel for software companies[00:16:48] Tackle platform integration with Salesforce enables easy engagement with cloud providers.[00:19:46] Cloud budget and B2B software budget colliding to create a 2 trillion mega budget.[00:20:24] Benefits of using Tackle platform for sales reps.[00:24:03] Tackle IO allows executing transactions without engaging with cloud sellers.[00:26:39] Marketing budgets under pressure, aligning ABM campaigns with cloud.[00:28:27] Tackle IO simplifies the integration of websites with the marketplace.[00:29:37] The evolution of marketplace experience towards a console-based model.[00:32:34] The opportunity for CROs to leverage cloud marketplaces for go-to-market strategies.[00:36:18] Tackle's revenue model and pricing structure[00:37:36] Importance of marketplace strategy for all companies[00:43:25] Career opportunities in cloud co-selling[00:49:46] Jake Simpson echoes John Jahnke's thoughts on designing a cloud go-to-market strategy based on company strategy and go-to-market system.[00:50:15] Jake Simpson sees an opportunity for responsible growth with efficiencies through cloud go-to-market strategies.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyPConnect and learn more about John Jahnke.https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjahnke/[email protected] and learn more about Jake Simpson.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakewsimp/[email protected] Marketing Contact.Erika Childers: [email protected] QUOTES[00:19:46] "The cloud budget is growing faster than any other budget in technology, say 20 percent year over year. It's 600 billion today. It'll be a trillion dollars in a handful of years."[00:32:34} "There's a tremendous opportunity for those that should be leaning in here. Everyone's trying to figure out right now how to get back to growth, and throwing headcount at it is a risky proposition."[00:38:23] "I think this movement's reshaping the way that channel works. And I think it's not just like marketplace cloud or channel, it's cloud and it can actually be an easy path to initiate your channel strategy as a software." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan delve into the essential characteristics of successful hiring companies, joined by J.R. Butler, founder of the Shift Group. Together, they explore the key elements that make a company excel in recruiting, developing, and retaining top talent, particularly athletes and veterans transitioning into sales roles.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:49] Characteristics of A-Players: A-Players are hungry to learn, self-starters with a no-victim mentality, and persistent learners from their mistakes.[00:01:23] Key Considerations for Hiring Companies: Sell the opportunity and potential outcomes. Foster a culture of excellence, growth, and development. Establish clearly defined goals to drive performance.[00:02:30] Culture Beyond Surface: True culture goes beyond superficial elements like themed Zoom days. It's about what people do when nobody's looking, emphasizing structure, practice, and rewarding the right behaviors.[00:05:08] Intimate Leadership: Leaders must understand the nuances of individuals, whether athletes or military veterans, to guide their growth effectively.[00:06:44] Work Preferences of Athletes and Veterans: Consider the unique situations of career transitioners, and understand their willingness to relocate or work remotely.[00:08:35] The Art of Selling the Opportunity: Companies should be adept at not only selling the job but also articulating why the candidate should choose them over other opportunities.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:08] "As a hiring company, you need to sell the opportunity and the potential outcome. But you also have to have a culture of excellence, growth, and development."[00:02:09] "Culture is what people do when nobody's looking. To create a culture where people do the right things, you've got to have that type of structure where they can practice and are rewarded for practice."[00:07:34] "Why would somebody want to work for this company? Why would somebody want to work for you? It's a really good exercise. So important."Listen to the full episode with JR Butler through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/assembling-a-top-sales-team-with-jr-butler/Check out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode we are joined for a second time by Jeremy Duggan, President and Board Member of Multiverse. Jeremy is a highly talented sales leader known for his expertise in B2B sales, ability to drive results and develop successful sales teams, and track record of changing lives and inspiring his team members to achieve greatness. He is passionate about leadership and believes in prioritizing the growth and development of his people.In this episode, Jeremy Duggan joins hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan to discuss the differences between leadership and management in the context of sales. Jeremy simplifies the concept by stating that managers focus on the work, while leaders prioritize the growth and development of their people. He emphasizes that true leadership comes from vision and purpose, noting that making an impact on people and attending their needs ultimately leads to better business outcomes. The hosts and Jeremy delve into the role of difficult conversations in leadership, the significance of having a clear vision, and the importance of data-driven development plans. They also highlight the need for belief and passion in achieving goals and the joy of changing lives as a leader.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:03:17] Discussion on the difference between leadership and management[00:08:15] Example of a difficult conversation with an employee[00:10:11] The importance of being coachable and open to learning[00:12:08] The importance of having the best interest of your team members at heart[00:15:54] The need for leaders to consistently analyze development data[00:17:23] The combination of management and leadership in effective leadership[00:19:18] The importance of purpose in leadership and creating a vision for the team[00:22:29] Leadership is about inspiring people and having a clear vision[00:31:39] Setting the stage with purpose and passion[00:36:55] Motivation and shaping thinking[00:42:16] Leadership is about influencing people and having a positive impact[00:58:09] Legacy is a proof of great leadership.[01:04:17] Importance of developing a leadership tree and the success of the organization after leaving.[01:05:15] The significance of being able to discuss the thriving of the organization and the leadership tree.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyPLearn more about Jeremy Duggan and about their company.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-duggan-819473/https://www.linkedin.com/school/joinmultiverse/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:53:32] "The need for loyalty as a leader... If you've got somebody and they've got those two things, and you do know it, after a few weeks, right? If they have, then if you're going to call yourself a leader that wants to change people's lives, you owe it to that person to stick with them."[00:57:22] "Loyalty provides so many things culturally... It provides safety in an unsafe job. It drives courage for people to take risks, to think they've got somebody backing them up... And people want to repay it as well... People would, the people I would ask about the leaders that they've had that I know, almost all of them will say they were there when I needed them."[01:00:24] "Legacy means... That people want to follow you to the next opportunity because they believe in you, they understand the rules of the game, then they understand what you're going to lay out, and they understand that underneath you, they can become a much better person, they can develop as a person... That's what you've really developed is pride." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan, sponsored by Force Management, delve into the intricacies of sales hiring, dissecting the reasons behind sales rep failures, and exploring the critical aspects of assessing the hiring process in a leadership role. Joined by Chris Riley, CEO of Winning Edge Advisors and former president of Worldwide Field Operations at DataRobot, the trio shares insights into the challenges of identifying the wrong hire, the importance of coaching, and the nuances of adapting to evolving business landscapes.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:52] Identifying Sales Rep Failures: Chris Riley discusses the multifaceted reasons behind sales rep failures and emphasizes the role of managers in daily coaching and feedback.[00:01:56] Critical Traits: The hosts and Chris highlight the significance of work ethic, coachability, and the ability to absorb and learn as key traits in successful sales hires.[00:03:33] Character Traits: The discussion touches on the challenge of changing inherent character traits, emphasizing the importance of recognizing a person's fundamental nature.[00:05:10] Skills Transferability: Chris shares insights into evaluating if a salesperson's skills are transferable to different sales environments and the potential pitfalls of misplacing talent.[00:06:34] Strategic Hires: The hosts stress the importance of strategic hires in business ops and go-to-market strategy, pivotal for proper business metrics and effective training.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:03:47] "If they're hungry enough, as you said, they're persistent. You might be able to help them develop skills, but you're not gonna change their character."[00:04:20] "Persistence, heart, and desire. You just have to give it everything you got."[00:06:52] "One, if you hire really good people and then when you onboard them the right way so you can decrease the ramp time and then you train them and develop 'em to increase their productivity and you give 'em to good leaders, you're probably not gonna churn them either."Listen to the full episode with Chris Riley through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/driving-accountability-and-building-trust-with-chris-rileyCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this milestone 100th episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan reflect on their journey and share some of their most memorable takeaways from previous conversations. They discuss the importance of authentic leadership, the power of debriefing, and the value of leading with a vision. They also highlight the significance of balancing work and personal life, the impact of Navy SEAL principles on leadership, and the role of customer success in reducing churn. The hosts express their gratitude to the listeners and emphasize the importance of caring for the guests and their stories.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:00:00] Introduction to the 100th episode celebration[00:01:08] Memorable episodes from previous guests[00:11:41] Conclusion and final thoughts on the 100th episode celebration[00:12:08] Sarah Dillegaard's story of staying calm in a crisis[00:15:14] Chris Kin's rare journey from salesperson to CRO in a startup[00:16:53] Cedric Pesce's insight on giving the team a vision to stay motivated[00:19:28] Mark Roberge's strategies to reduce churn at HubSpot[00:21:00] Leading authentically and the importance of caring for your team[00:21:39] John Mosley's selfless leadership as a basketball coach[00:23:06] Customer-centric approach with discovery and the significance of MEDDIC qualification criteriaADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyP HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:04:40] "The podcast is about giving back and taking the experiences from our guests and letting them share those life lessons."[00:10:23] "A good leader needs to give the team a vision that keeps their mind away from the monotony of everyday work.[00:17:38] "If you wanna build a ship, don't drum up people to assign them tasks, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast as they dive into the intricate world of churn with special guest Allison Pickens. Former COO of Gainsight, Allison shares her insights into scaling a company and understanding the nuanced reasons behind customer departures. From measuring churn metrics to the importance of responding to external factors, this episode provides valuable lessons for businesses aiming to enhance customer success and retention.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:54] Superficial Understanding of Churn Causes: Alison discusses how some companies may view churn too superficially, attributing it to external factors like a change in company leadership or losing to a competitor.[00:01:44] Strategic Response to Churn: Emphasizing the importance of responding appropriately to churn events and considering them as opportunities rather than inevitable losses.[00:02:48] Honest Evaluation: Encouraging companies to be honest about what aspects of their operations can be improved and aligning strategies with company goals.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:00:54] "One way in which they might think about it too superficially is they might note things, root causes that are outside of their control."[00:01:44] "When your customer gets acquired by another company, that is not an obvious churn or like an inevitable churn reason. It might be an opportunity to expand your deployment to the larger company."[00:02:48] "What's important is just being honest with yourself about what you can improve and what you can based on the strategy of your company at the time."Listen to the full episode with Allison Pickens through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/mastering-the-art-of-customer-success-with-allison-pickensCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Dan Barrett is the Senior Vice President of Customer Success at MongoDB. With a background in sales, Dan has held various leadership roles in the technology industry. He started his career at IBM before moving on to Q Associates, Symantec, and ServiceNow. Dan joined MongoDB as a Regional Director for the UK and Ireland and has since been promoted to Vice President of Northern Europe and then to his current role as Senior Vice President of Customer Success.In this episode, Dan discusses his transition from sales to customer success and the importance of aligning sales and customer success teams. Dan shares insights on reducing churn, proactive customer success strategies, and the changing expectations of customers in a consumption-driven world. He emphasizes the need for measuring and demonstrating the impact of customer success and the role of customer success in driving business outcomes. Dan also highlights the significance of cultivating advocates and engaging economic buyers throughout the customer journey.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:40] Dan's initial thoughts on transitioning from sales to customer success[00:06:41] Organization structure: customer success, product-led sales, account management, and renewal[00:09:19] Challenges of silos and lack of alignment between teams[00:12:18] Building skills, trust, and impact in customer success[00:15:14] Reviewing and addressing risks on a weekly basis[00:17:48] Promoting internal talent and maintaining company culture[00:19:59] Challenges in selecting and developing customer success leaders[00:22:10] Understanding the complex root causes of churn[00:26:00] Moving to a consumption-based model is the ultimate test of value[00:29:47] Customer success is often the first to be cut due to lack of impact measurement[00:32:00] A good customer success team should be able to pay for itself[00:36:24] The importance of a positive customer experience and the potential impact on future projects[00:39:00] Economic buyer engagement and the changing dynamics of the sales process[00:47:09] The importance of aligning the customer journey with the software development lifecycle[00:51:53] Being data-driven and analyticalADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about aligning customer-facing teams to improve execution: https://forc.mx/48o1jyPLearn more about Dan Barrett and about their company.https://www.linkedin.com/in/newbusinesssales/https://www.linkedin.com/company/mongodbinc/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:54:26] "If I can't self-identify on how that makes me feel, I call it the indignity of the close. If I'm not understanding what that means, that the sale really begins with probably an objection or a no or somewhere, and I'm not comfortable with that, then I'm probably not gonna do so well in that sales career."[00:55:41] "I wanna understand someone's character more so than anything. So I think those, As part of our structured interview framework, we're trying to focus more in the early stages of that process of identifying what are the aspects of someone's character and capability that we're looking for."[01:01:41] "I think if the sales reps need to remember where they came from and help invest in that SDR 'cause it's gonna lead to success for them if they make those investments." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan dive deep into the concept of negativity bias and its impact on sales performance. Joined by Jim “Pouli” Pouliopoulos, a seasoned sales management facilitator and author of "How to Be A Well-Being," the conversation explores the roots of negativity bias, its evolutionary significance, and practical strategies to counteract it. The hosts emphasize the importance of focusing on the sales process rather than fixating on closing deals, offering valuable insights for sales professionals looking to enhance their mindset and performance.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:57] Understanding Negativity Bias: Jim explains negativity bias as a hardwired human tendency to interpret external events negatively, rooted in evolutionary survival instincts.[00:02:25] Impact on Sales: The hosts discuss how negativity bias can adversely affect sales professionals, leading to self-doubt, fear of rejection, and a negative spiral in their approach.[00:03:27] Counteracting Negativity Bias: Jim suggests countering negativity bias by training the brain to focus on positive aspects daily, cultivating gratitude for small things.[00:06:28] Shifting Focus to Process: The conversation shifts to the idea of focusing on the sales process rather than fixating on closing deals, emphasizing the importance of controlling what can be controlled.[00:08:13] Empathy in Sales: Jim advises sellers to approach conversations with empathy, asking, "How do I help this person right now?" instead of being overly concerned about closing deals.[00:09:21] Managerial Support: The hosts discuss the role of managers in fostering a positive mindset, encouraging them to shift their focus from demanding closed deals to understanding and supporting the seller's efforts to help their clients.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:20] "Negativity bias is hardwired into us; it gave us the tools to evolve, but we need to recognize and manage it in sales."[00:03:45] "Training our brains to focus on daily positives can counteract the immediate negative interpretations of events."[00:07:53] "Instead of fixating on closing deals, ask, 'How do I help this person?' – it leads to better questions, rapport building, and positive outcomes."[00:09:21] "Managers play a crucial role; shifting focus from closing deals to understanding and supporting the seller's efforts leads to better results."Listen to the full episode with Jim “Pouli” Pouliopoulos through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/how-to-be-a-well-being-in-salesCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Joe Young currently holds the position of Vice President of Worldwide Commercial Sales at Zscaler, where he oversees both the inside and field Commercial sales organization consisting of 200 people, along with the sales development organization of 100 people. Before joining Zscaler, Joe accumulated over 9 years of experience at EMC & Dell EMC, contributing to various inside sales, field sales, and leadership roles across different segments of the company. A native of the Boston area, Joe is a Babson College graduate with a degree in Business Administration and Finance. Additionally, he served as a two-year captain of the Men's Varsity Golf Team.In this episode, Joe Young shares insights into how Zscaler organizes its commercial sales team, including inside sales, SDRs, and field sales. He discusses the segmentation of the commercial market into SMB (500 employees and below) and commercial (500-2,500 employees) accounts. Joe also highlights the importance of having field presence for commercial accounts and the role of SDRs in building pipeline and demand generation. He emphasizes the need for consistent enablement, common language, and sales processes across geographies. Additionally, Joe provides valuable advice on recruiting and developing talent, the key qualities of successful SDRs and inside salespeople, and the challenges of territory balancing.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:13] Joe Young's background and experience at EMC Dell[00:07:40] Adjusting the line between SMB and commercial based on productivity[00:11:02] SDR organization's role in building pipeline and future talent pipeline[00:14:29] Distribution of commercial reps in local offices and managed by local leaders[00:17:26] Importance of enablement business partner and consistent enablement[00:20:15] Standardizing processes and language across stages to facilitate promotion and transition[00:22:15] Importance of establishing the three why's: why buy anything, why buy now, and why buy from me[00:26:20] Difficulty in finding multiple champions in SMB accounts[00:29:11] Deals stall due to lack of pain qualification or champion[00:33:04] Conversion rate decreased from 28% to 18% in the past year[00:36:45] Difficulty in holding onto inside sales reps and providing career paths[00:44:24] The average tenure for SDRs and inside sellers is 18 months[00:57:19] Joe Young highlights the importance of overcoming adversity and being a grinder in a sales roleADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Joe Young and about their company.https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-young-6959742b/https://www.linkedin.com/company/zscaler/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:54:26] "If I can't self-identify on how that makes me feel, I call it the indignity of the close. If I'm not understanding what that means, that the sale really begins with probably an objection or a no or somewhere, and I'm not comfortable with that, then I'm probably not gonna do so well in that sales career."[00:55:41] "I wanna understand someone's character more so than anything. So I think those, As part of our structured interview framework, we're trying to focus more in the early stages of that process of identifying what are the aspects of someone's character and capability that we're looking for."[01:01:41] "I think if the sales reps need to remember where they came from and help invest in that SDR 'cause it's gonna lead to success for them if they make those investments." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

SHOW SUMMARYIn this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan in a deep dive with industry expert Anne Gary as they explore the essential steps in preparing for the Economic Buyer meeting. Ann shares valuable insights on how salespeople can differentiate themselves, become true business partners, and align their solutions with both corporate and individual objectives.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:49] Research is Key: 8 out of 10 executives feel sales meetings are wasted time. Research company objectives, risks, and competition beforehand.[00:01:46] Be a Partner: Differentiate by helping run their business. Provide insights into unconsidered business issues.[00:02:56] Align for Success: Link solutions to corporate and individual performance, focusing on revenue growth, cost reduction, and risk mitigation.[00:04:55] Articulate the Pain: Quantify the current situation, showcasing the full ramifications of the customer's process and connecting it to positive business outcomes.[00:08:14] Differentiate Effectively: Identify required capabilities, differentiating based on unique strengths addressing specific pain points for winning the Proof of Value (POV).[00:09:00] ROI Confidence: Develop a preliminary Return on Investment (ROI) confidently before entering Proof of Concept (POC) discussions.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:25] "Be a business partner, not a salesperson. Help them run their business, inform them about business issues they haven't considered."[00:03:57] "The terms that resonate with your champion may not be the same terms that resonate with the economic buyer. Speak on their business terms."[00:07:54] "Understand how these people are measured. Highlight the business outcome that aligns most with how they're evaluated."Listen to the full episode with Anne Gary through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/getting-to-the-economic-buyer-with-anne-garyCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

John Donnelly III is a seasoned global operational executive with over 25 years of experience in growing enterprise B2B SaaS companies. He has successfully managed various stages of growth for tech companies, ranging from series A to over $900M in revenue, leading large global teams in sales, support, services, and marketing. With a track record of delivering multiple millions in returns to private equity and venture investors, John has played key roles in two IPOs and several M&A exits. In this episode, John McMahon and John Kaplan talk with John Donnelly about his sales career journey, the challenges of business acquisitions, effective sales forecasting, and the importance of storytelling in sales campaigns. Donnelly also stresses the need for sales reps to build emotional connections to their customers and to deeply understand their needs. This episode illuminates valuable insights for sales executives navigating forecast challenges and business acquisitions.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[01:27] John Donnelly's Career Journey[03:19] John Donnelly's Experience with Acquisitions[05:35] The Challenges of Cultural Fit in Acquisitions[11:49] The Importance of Listening and Understanding in New Leadership Roles[24:52] The Impact of Slip Deals on Forecasting[28:05] The Role of CRM Systems in Forecasting[32:00] Understanding Why Deals Slip[32:13] Top Reasons for Deal Slippage[32:28] The Importance of Attaching to the Biggest Business Issue[33:04] The Role of a Champion in the Sales Cycle[34:09] Differentiating Yourself from the Competition[34:40] The Art of Asking the Right Questions[35:03] Understanding the Timeline of a Deal[38:05] The Importance of Testing Champions[46:15] The Power of Storytelling in Sales[48:59] The Role of Emotional Intelligence in SalesADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about John Donnelly and about their [email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/johncare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/up-2-speed/HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:41:55] "And I, like I said earlier, at the very beginning, I think, the reps that get, more people involved and more people involved in a deal, you get more perspective on something. And I think if a rep is holding a deal very close to the chest and not really willing to get other people involved in the business, I always worry about that as well."[00:46:27] "I love this because that's really important. Sorry, Johnny when, especially when they can tell a story that aligns to the same issues that customer had. so they're, because I found that a lot of customers, sometimes they're. Reluctant to talk about all their issues 'cause they think they're the only ones, those issues they have are very unique."[00:51:46] "And I think that's something that's so important. And whenever I talk to customers now, it's always, okay, tell me what we've done to make, why are we, why are you different now using DTIQ? What's different about it? I wanna know what that is and why, and because ultimately, of course, not every customer can speak publicly. But I'm always looking for the next referral, the next customer that can speak on our behalf to say, Hey, we brought DTIQ in before, before we had DTIQ, we had these problems, we brought it in, and now we don't and we saved money." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast as they sit down with Terry Tripp, the Chief Revenue Officer at Tynes. In this insightful episode, Terry shares his experiences and key strategies for navigating the critical first steps as a Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). From understanding the team and connecting with customers to identifying early opportunities, Terry provides valuable insights for both new and seasoned CROs.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:31] Understand the team: Prioritize one-on-one conversations with each team member to grasp goals and perspectives.[00:02:56] Explore customer insights: Delve into how customers use the solution, identify problems, and collect valuable feedback.[00:03:19] Seek early wins: Listen for blockers to tackle and discover near-term growth opportunities for quick successes.[00:08:40] Importance of sales process: Establish a common language, facilitate scalability, and ensure consistency for training and forecasting.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:31] "The first thing for me is really getting to understand the people... one-on-one conversations with every single person in my organization."[00:02:36] "I really wanted to get into the shoes of our customers and understand really what's driving them to tackle this problem and choosing to tackle it with us."[00:06:00] "You've gotta get everybody speaking the same language... important part of a well-defined process is everybody understands what it means when a deal is at a certain stage."[00:06:57] "If you don't have a well-defined sales process, you can't really see any patterns."[00:07:28] "It's a great way to kind of bring those two together and look for those enablement opportunities that probably aren't isolated."Listen to the full episode with Terry Tripp through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/perfecting-the-process-with-terry-trippCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

John Care spent numerous years building world-class Sales Engineering organizations at Oracle, Sybase, Vantive, Clarify, CA, Business Objects, and HP Software. He has a BSc with Honours in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College, London, and is a former contributing member of the MBA Advisory Council for the Fox Business School of Temple University, Philadelphia. He has been published in such diverse media as CIO, InfoWorld, Touchline, and The Wall Street Journal. He now serves on the Advisory Boards of several hi-tech startups dedicated to the Sales Engineering community.In this episode, John Care, co-author of "Mastering Technical Sales," joins hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan to discuss the role of technical sales and how sales leaders can effectively utilize sales engineers (SEs) to demonstrate customer value and differentiate their solutions. They emphasize the importance of building relationships, storytelling, and slowing down to go fast in the sales process. The conversation also covers the partnership between SEs and account executives (AEs), the value SEs bring to the sales team, and the significance of qualification and preparation before demos and proof of concepts (POCs)Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:03:19] Discussion on what makes a good SE[00:05:49] Data on the value provided by SEs[00:07:01] Importance of storytelling for SEs[00:11:08] The attribute of patience in SEs[00:20:30] Sales engineers should be seen as partners in the sales cycle[00:23:55] Constant communication with the sales engineer is key for success[00:28:55] The importance of debriefing after sales calls[00:35:38] The pros and cons of dashing to the demo[00:42:03] The importance of qualification before a demo[00:54:01] The role of SEs in post-sales and consumption-based modelsADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about John Care and their [email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/johncare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/up-2-speed/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders:https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:57:19] "The SE knows more people, that knows where the bodies are buried, as we like to say, and can actually be the guide for, a new rep as they come in or a new strategy."[01:01:26] "If you're an SE who wants to go over into sales, normally it's better if you go over either into an overlay position or into a pharma type position, as opposed to, hunter killers, new logos type accounts." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts Jon McMahon and Jon Kaplan sit down with special guest Brent Gleeson, a Navy SEAL veteran and leadership training expert. Together, they explore the concept of a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset, drawing insights from Brent's experiences and research. The discussion delves into the challenges, efforts, feedback, and setbacks associated with each mindset, providing valuable lessons for individuals and teams seeking to enhance their performance. Brent shares anecdotes from SEAL training, offering practical applications for leaders in any industry. The episode concludes with a focus on leading individuals out of the "gray area" of self-sabotage and fostering a shared sense of purpose.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:30] Fixed Mindset Traits: Individuals resist growth, avoiding challenges and clinging to their existing skills.[00:04:44] Growth Mindset Traits: Embracing challenges, seeking continuous improvement, and staying resilient lead to ongoing success.[00:08:42] Spotting the "Gray Man" Phenomenon: Recognizing disengaged individuals trying to blend in, analogous to workplace disinterest.[00:12:16] Leading Individuals Out of the Gray Area: Establish emotional connections to goals, emphasize shared purpose, and address structural issues for better team engagement.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:07:52] "My training is never complete, and therefore, I'm open for feedback and constantly looking for continuous improvement."[00:11:55] "Self-sabotage often happens when individuals in the gray area convince themselves they won't succeed and subsequently neglect necessary actions."Listen to the full episode with Brent Gleeson through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/embrace-the-suck-with-brent-gleesonCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

As the Chief Revenue Officer at Skyflow, Tammy Sexton is responsible for driving revenue growth and scaling the go-to-market team for the company's innovative data privacy platform. With more than 20 years of experience in enterprise sales,Tammy has a proven track record of leading and developing high-performing sales teams, building strategic partnerships, and delivering value to customers across various industries and regions. She has successfully managed and grown sales organizations at early and mid-stage startups, such as LaunchDarkly, LogicHub, and Sumo Logic, as well as established companies, such as PagerDuty, EMC, and PTC.In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, Tammy discusses the importance of data privacy and how Skyflow's data vault as a service helps companies protect sensitive information. She shares insights on the impact of data breaches on brand reputation and revenue, as well as the role of data privacy in building customer trust. Tammy also reflects on her journey as a sales leader and provides valuable lessons on transitioning from an account executive to a manager, managing managers, and becoming a CRO.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:01:19] Tammy Sexton's background and role at Skyflow[00:03:48] Examples of companies that use data vaults for privacy protection[00:05:18] Skyflow's certification program and compliance benefits[00:07:53] Tammy Sexton's experience and lessons learned in sales leadership[00:10:22] Avoiding the mistake of becoming a "super rep" as a manager[00:14:12] Coaching first line managers on recruitment and finding the right fit for the company[00:20:17] Focusing on the basics and fundamentals as a second line manager to make a big difference[00:27:48] Challenges of managing different groups as a CRO[00:40:48] Key things to learn as a new CRO in a company[01:06:44] Discovery and pain metrics drive urgencyADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Tammy Sexton and about their company.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-sexton/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skyflow/Email: Tammy Sexton [email protected] our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders:https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:50:55] "So it's not just about the data. It's not just about necessarily the numbers at the top, but the conversion numbers, the SC conversion from POV to win, the AE conversion at each stage. So if I can sit down with a manager that has six AEs and help that manager with data that says this AE always gets stuck at this part of the sales cycle. Why do they have a 20 percent POV win rate and technical win rate when all the other AEs have a 60 percent chance of moving to the next stage."[01:06:26] "Nothing better than good discovery and good pain and good influence on decision criteria. And at the end of the day, the metric will drive the urgency. If you did it right. If you did it right, go back to the basics." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we delve into the intricate world of sales negotiation with expert Tim Caito from Force Management. We explore the crucial aspects of negotiation, from preparing champions to dealing with procurement and the power of starting early in the sales process. Tim shares valuable insights and strategies to help organizations preserve value in the final deal and achieve successful negotiations.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:07] Starting early in the sales process is crucial for successful negotiation.[00:02:09] Begin the negotiation process before the other side believes you're negotiating.[00:02:58] Having a better alternative gives leverage in negotiations.[00:04:00] Making negotiations about the client's alternative rather than yours is a powerful tactic.[00:05:51] Procurement's role and the importance of preparing champions for the negotiation process.[00:08:23] The significance of creating a powerful cost justification to resist procurement pressure.[00:10:46] The role of champions as the great equalizer in the negotiation process.[00:12:17] Anticipating competitive tactics and preparing champions to handle external pressure.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:26] "Start the negotiation process before the other side believes we're negotiating."[00:03:18] "If the rep doesn't have a solid alternative, it gives the power back to procurement."[00:08:48] "You have to have done such a good cost justification that they feel like they're losing every day that goes by."[00:10:27] "Champions are the great equalizer in a negotiation process."[00:13:52] "We have to prep them because it is going to happen, and we have to role play and ask specifically, what are you going to say when they ask this question."Listen to the full episode with Tim Caito through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/the-secrets-of-sales-negotiation-with-tim-caitoCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Carl Cross has an established career transforming and leading superior teams resulting in high performance and vibrant revenue growth. Carl has advanced through multiple leadership roles and has consistently been asked to lead key projects that drive corporate strategy. Currently, Carl is the Chief Revenue Officer of Alkami, a SaaS based digital banking platform. He started his career at Peoplesoft where he climbed into the sales leadership ranks before moving to SAP. After SAP he moved to BMC where he was responsible for the company's global outsourcing business and after a two year stint with HP, Carl headed up worldwide sales at AppSense and helped lead the company through its acquisition by ThomaBravo. He then held the position of Executive Vice President of Worldwide Sales at Workfront and remained in that role leading the go to market integration after the acquisition by Adobe.In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, Carl Cross, the Chief Revenue Officer at Alkami, shares his insights on sales leadership and scaling a sales organization. He emphasizes the importance of effective leadership, creating a strong sales culture, and aligning sales and marketing efforts. Carl also highlights the significance of understanding the buyer's journey and conducting thorough discovery in the sales process. When it comes to scaling a sales force, Carl discusses the need for a sales capacity plan and the importance of staying ahead in recruiting to avoid falling behind in sales goals.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:05:20] Lesson learned as a first line manager: it's not about you[00:09:59] Challenges of transitioning to a second line manager[00:12:24] Transition from tactical to strategic thinking[00:17:16] Importance of skills and pipeline in sales[00:19:27] Accountability for recruitment and development of reps[00:23:11] Importance of understanding and motivating individual team members[00:27:08] Living by the culture and taking responsibility for it as a leader[00:32:08] Challenges of being a CRO and the need for alignment[00:41:27] Motivation and individual differences in sales[00:51:14] Lessons on scaling a sales forceADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Carl Cross and about their company:https://www.linkedin.com/in/crosscarl/https://www.linkedin.com/company/alkamitech/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders:https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:52:48] "But for me, scaling is really it's, you know, do you have a sales capacity plan? Right? And I'm not talking about like we're getting ready to come into a new year. We already know the sales capacity plan. We know what we're hiring to, but the most effective CROs, most every SAS company is going to have a 3, 4, 5 year plan, right?"[00:53:28] "But have the plan higher to it, hold the leadership accountable to it and that's how I think about scaling it. There's a lot of things in it, but your sales capacity plan and your average productivity per head is probably the biggest driver in that well." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

If you’re a leader and you want your revenue teams to really own their number, treat their territory or accounts as their own franchise, have them join Force Management's webinar THIS FRIDAY with John Kaplan. In the "Plan to Make the Plan", John Kaplan will cover:Having the right mindset to attack your territory or set of accountsWays to more effectively enter into Account PlanningBest practices on building an Operating Rhythm that works for youAs you know, John is a master at providing salespeople with actionable tips they can use to execute. We’d love to have some Revenue Builders listeners there. Sign up here: https://forc.mx/4aR4OQS Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we engage in a riveting conversation with Alan Chhabra, the Executive Vice President of Worldwide Partners at MongoDB. Alan delves into the intricacies of establishing, nurturing, and enhancing partnerships within the realm of sales and channel organizations. Alan shares insights into prioritizing partnerships, aligning them with customer needs, enhancing sales productivity, and turbocharging relationships with various types of partners.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:12] Importance of partnering strategy for selling software at scale.[00:02:15] Assessing partnerships through a customer-centric lens: relevance, ecosystem enhancement, and simplifying procurement.[00:03:55] Focusing on crucial partners: cloud providers, system integrators, ISVs, and resellers.[00:08:49] Convincing partners by highlighting the additional value MongoDB brings to drive their sales.[00:10:40] Establishing trust and momentum through successful mutual deals, leading to a long-term relationship.[00:11:57] Factors that can potentially disrupt partnerships: compensation model changes, competitive products, lack of focus, or overextension.[00:13:44] Turbocharging partnerships with system integrators by offering certification programs aligned with high-margin, strategic projects like cloud migration.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:33] "You really need people around the product set to be able to sell at scale."[00:05:37] "It was a nice agreement at the top, but there's no underlying relationship at let's call it the street level."[00:09:44] "That's when trust is established, and then you can build and maintain a long-term relationship."[00:11:06] "Partnerships at the central level, they can be struck quickly, but they also can be destroyed quickly."[00:14:26] "There's ways that companies like MongoDB can get big with SIs if we help them with the cloud migration journey."Listen to the full episode with Alan Chhabra through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/the-ideal-partnership-with-alan-chhabraCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Jeremy Burton is the CEO of Observe and a board member of Snowflake. He has a background in product management and marketing, with experience at companies like Oracle, Symantec, and Dell.In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, Jeremy Burton, CEO of Observe, shares insights from his transition from working at large companies to leading a startup. He emphasizes the importance of introspection and humility, building a culture of open feedback and discussion, and understanding the continuous process of product-market fit. He also discusses the potential of AI to transform industries and increase productivity, while acknowledging its limitations.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:09:01] Importance of optimism and comfort with the unknown in a startup[00:10:53] Importance of being prepared to make mistakes and learn[00:13:11] Pride is detrimental, need to readjust and reassess decisions[00:19:42] Look for a startup that could become a big company[00:21:50] Importance of humility and listening to customer feedback[00:26:01] Building for larger enterprises can have a stronger value proposition[00:29:30] Focusing on solving customer problems rather than cool features[00:40:31] Skill sets of sellers and understanding users and enterprise[00:47:38] Generative AI can automate troubleshooting tasks and improve efficiency[01:00:00] Marketing's role in making sales successfulADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Jeremy Burton and about their company:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jburton0/https://www.linkedin.com/company/observe-inc/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders:https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:54:33] "And I think all of those kinds of industries where a domain expert is required to explain, they're sort of the gatekeeper and you've got to pay them a lot of money. I think that interface is changing. It's going to be blown wide open. And so, if your value is in doing this translation from complicated domain specific language to layman's, you find somewhere else to add value because that's not going to be it."[00:55:52] "But the number of people that can then interact with that is going to be an order of magnitude greater. And so you better make sure your system can scale because more people are probably going to engage. There's a whole bunch of sort of caveats that I think almost every software company is going to have to think through, which is why, if you don't have someone really important in your company working on this, then you're making a mistake." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this curated episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, we engage in an insightful conversation with Hollie Castro, a seasoned Chief People Officer and business transformation leader. Hollie delves into the evolving landscape of loyalty in the workforce, dissecting changing career expectations, motivations behind career transitions, and the shifting definitions of loyalty across different life stages. Holly shares invaluable insights on redefining loyalty in the modern workplace, emphasizing the importance of mindset shifts and transparent conversations between leaders and their teams.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:52] Traditional career longevity is evolving; individuals are more inclined to pursue diverse career paths, influenced by factors like peer comparison, financial gains, and personal growth.[00:01:44] Different life stages dictate varied motivations for career changes. Social media plays a pivotal role in shaping individuals' perceptions of success.[00:03:01] Loyalty remains a fundamental concept, but the expression and expectations surrounding loyalty have transformed over time. Leaders must adapt to the changing dynamics of employee loyalty.[00:04:49] A shift in mindset is crucial. Loyalty doesn't necessarily equate to lifelong commitment; it involves honest conversations and continuous re-recruitment efforts.[00:06:28] How employees exit a company is as vital as their contributions while working there. Leaving transparently and with a positive plan benefits both the departing individual and the organization.[00:08:25] The world is smaller than perceived; leaving a positive legacy matters, as personal reputations endure through professional connections and references.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:18] "Social media is a powerful force. So when they perceive their peer group to be, you know, making more money or having a bigger title, that has a huge influence on how they think about themselves."[00:04:49] "Loyalty means something different... It's more about having an honest conversation. Somebody's going to leave. Who's going to leave? What do we need to do to re-recruit them?"[00:06:54] "How you leave is more important than actually everything you did because it's the only thing people will remember about you."[00:07:42] "At some point, you're going to quit a job. And when you do that, how you do it... are you going to be a pro or are you going to be a loser?"Listen to the full episode with Hollie Castro through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/hiring-in-the-post-covid-19-era-with-hollie-castroCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Doug May is the Chief of Staff to the CRO at Datadog. He has extensive experience in sales leadership and has a deep understanding of driving business value for customers.In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, Doug emphasizes the importance of quantifying value in the sales process. By aligning solutions with customer goals and strategies, sellers can show real business impact. Discovery is crucial for understanding customer challenges, and building trust is essential for successful sales engagements. Presenting the results of a business value assessment in a simple and compelling way is key to gaining customer buy-in.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:10:16] Distinguishing oneself as a salesperson through business value.[00:11:57] Importance of how you sell and what you sell.[00:18:07] Earning the right to discuss personal pressure.[00:20:21] Using the value pyramid framework to align solutions.[00:28:30] Collecting metrics and understanding the problem worth solving.[00:31:36] Building trust through understanding and consultative approach.[00:34:51] Story about differentiating through understanding customer challenges and providing a business case.[00:38:59] Creating a customer version of the sales process to set expectations.[00:45:24] Importance of message framework and story arc in sales.[00:53:15] Lifecycle of a BVA and its ongoing measurement of value.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Doug May and about their company:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougmay/https://www.linkedin.com/company/datadog/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders:https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:55:00] "What metrics are we going to help them measure? And when you can integrate this pre-sale value experience into the post-sale value experience. Value is the red thread from the very beginning, from my first call to the customer through the closing of a deal, onboarding, and customer expansion. It's something that's just there all the time."[00:56:18] "In the best scenarios, the champion will get on the phone, invite us to the call with procurement, and explain a couple of critical points."[01:00:20] "I've made a slide that highlights that incident, it's the punch in the gut. Now you're the procurement person, you see the people you've met, the incident, the quotes, this real-world incident. You almost become scared, not wanting to be the one that said no to this vendor." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Join hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast as they delve into the art of storytelling in sales with Maury Rogow, CEO of Rip Media. Discover how storytelling shapes sales strategies, transforms brands, and influences purchasing decisions. Uncover the crucial role storytelling plays in building relationships, captivating audiences, and driving revenue.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:10] The significance of storytelling in sales for both salespeople and executives.[00:01:27] Understanding the customer journey and tailoring stories for various stages.[00:02:07] Making customers the heroes of your stories to address their needs and solutions.[00:03:42] Simplifying complex information into compelling narratives for emotional connection.[00:08:09] Adapting storytelling techniques based on the buyer's position in the purchasing cycle.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:00:49] "Your brand will thrive or die based on the story you tell."[00:01:47] "The folks that tell great stories, get to the point, and build relationships bring in the 6, 7, even 8-figure deals."[00:06:32] "It's not about you; it's about how you help those on the other side of the table. They need to be the hero."[00:07:13] "If you walk in there to serve, the 'what's in it for me,' they're thinking what's in it for me to be sitting here with you."Listen to the full episode with Maury Rogow through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/make-your-customer-the-hero-with-maury-rogowCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

John McMahon and John Kaplan as they express gratitude to their dedicated audience while reflecting on the impactful moments of 2023. In this festive episode, the duo discusses the diverse array of esteemed guests, key takeaways, and listener engagement that shaped the Revenue Builders Podcast. From top-tier executives to specific sales strategies, the hosts invite feedback and suggestions for future episodes. They also share exciting plans for 2024 and offer a heartfelt holiday message to their listenersCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, they engage in a dynamic discussion with Mark Thurmond, COO of Tenable, a veteran revenue builder. Mark shares insights on recruiting top talent using the concept of the "three H's" – head, heart, and hard work – emphasizing the significance of character attributes in addition to skills. The conversation delves into the crucial role of effective enablement in empowering sales teams and the necessity of removing friction within an organization to boost productivity.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:55] The Three H's of Recruitment: Mark simplifies recruitment by focusing on intellect (head), passion (heart), and work ethic (hard work) as essential attributes.[00:04:15] The Vitality of Enablement: Enablement is a cornerstone for success, ensuring teams are not only technically competent but also equipped with essential skills.[00:08:05] Frictionless Operations: Identifying and eliminating obstacles within an organization significantly enhances the productivity and effectiveness of the sales force.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:55] "I look for the head, which is obviously the intellect, the intelligence... the heart, the passion, the enthusiasm... and the last one is the hard work."[00:04:15] "Enablement is maybe the most important function a company has... to train, enable, and ensure the most competent salespeople."[00:08:05] M "Removing friction is about simplifying and removing obstacles for your team... it's on you to make sure there's no cholesterol building up in the organization."Listen to the full episode with Mark Thurmond through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/hard-work-grit-and-removing-friction-for-your-teamsCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, our special guest, Anne Gary, the Managing Director at Force Management, is back again to discuss the intricacies of decision criteria while mastering the role of champions in sales success. Delving into the depths of sales strategy, they explore defining decision criteria, aligning it with customer needs, and differentiating products effectively. John McMahon, John Kaplan, and Anne Gary navigate through the risks of scope creep in Proof of Value (POV) or Proof of Concept (POC) stages, emphasizing the importance of formalizing criteria and engaging stakeholders. Discover the critical role of champions in aligning criteria with business outcomes, understanding customer pain points, shaping compelling points of view, and leveraging their influence to drive sales success. This insightful discussion equips sales teams with actionable strategies and anecdotes to secure customer engagement and ace the sales process.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:03:12] Decision criteria are specific requirements and quantifiable metrics used by customers to evaluate potential solutions.[00:04:21] Aligning product differentiators with decision criteria enhances the chance of winning the validation event.[00:06:38] Differentiation strategies include unique, valuable, and comparative differentiators, but vigilance is needed as these can become targets for competition.[00:12:39] Scope creep in decision criteria introduces more risk, necessitating continuous monitoring and alignment with evolving customer needs.[00:19:06] The process of defining decision criteria begins in the discovery stage, involves scoping and champion involvement, and should be finalized with the economic buyer's approval.[00:22:28] Challenges arise when criteria change, warranting a deeper understanding of who influenced the change and why.[00:23:09] Champions need to be prepared for objections in advance to increase the chances of success in complex sales cycles.[00:26:06] Keeping champions prepared ensures successful meetings and sustains their support for the sales process.[00:27:02] Understanding and quantifying pain points during discovery and scoping stages are vital for success.[00:32:50] Summarizing and understanding customer problems helps in overcoming seller deficit disorder.[00:33:27] Constructing a pain matrix aids in prioritizing and solving identified pain points promptly.[00:37:41] Adapting to changing criteria by utilizing pain matrices enhances adaptability and customer understanding.[00:39:36] Champions play a key role in influencing stakeholders and formalizing decision criteria.[00:43:04] Champions' timely feedback is crucial for addressing challenges and managing stakeholder expectations.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Anne Gary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-gary-a054aa96/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders: https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:03:00] “I define the decision criteria as a specific set of requirements, standards, and real importantly, the quantifiable metrics that the customer uses to evaluate the potential solutions. And making a purchase decision with that definition, though, the importance of the decision criteria is winning in the proof of value lies in the ability of the salesperson to align to the customer's needs and expectations, you know, with their solution. So, with that, by helping to create the decision criteria with the customer, you know, salespeople can demonstrate the value and relevance of their product and increase the likelihood of a successful POV. And ultimately, you know, they're really going to close the deal for higher price points.”[00:27:22] "You really need to show up with a compelling point of view, meaning you've done your homework. You understand the customer and their use cases, you know, knowing their use cases gives you the ability to discuss it with the customer in a confident way. I just can't imagine showing up to a call and not really understanding what they do, what they're about, and you almost understand the patterns of what they're looking for."[00:46:30] "And so if you're listening and you're technically inclined, decision criteria is a great place for you to really help the sales team. What I used to, I love doing when I'd go on a forecast, I'd have the technical people on the forecast as well. I'd ask what the decision criteria is, and then I wouldn't ask the seller. I would ask the, the technical person, I would say, how do you feel about that? Number 1, is that the correct decision criteria? Number 2, can we win with that criteria?" Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This sh

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan they engage in a captivating conversation with Cedric Pech, the Chief Revenue Officer at MongoDB. Cedric shares insightful experiences and lessons learned in transitioning from a VP role to a CRO position, focusing on the challenges of managing global teams, fostering purpose-driven leadership, and creating a unified vision that motivates teams beyond just financial incentives. The discussion delves into the significance of purpose in motivating teams, navigating the complexities of global leadership, and distinguishing between mercenaries and patriots in an organization.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:59] Transitioning from VP to CRO: Managing global teams brings a shift in scale, complexity, and the need for a different leadership approach.[00:04:26] Purposeful Leadership: Articulating a collective vision and values fosters team alignment and motivation, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.[00:08:15] Building a Vision: Leaders need to emphasize a compelling, meaningful vision that transcends mere financial gains to inspire loyalty and dedication in their teams.[00:12:26] Patriots vs. Mercenaries: Creating a culture of patriots, driven by a shared vision and purpose, sustains resilience in tough times compared to organizations reliant solely on financial incentives.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:04:26] "The moment you start asking [why am I doing what I'm doing], then you start needing to dig into yourself and do some introspection to come up with answers."[00:06:16] "If you don't go beyond execution and don't explain to your people why they need to excel, they start feeling it's a grinding organization, not very inspiring."[00:12:26] "Great leaders build patriots versus mercenaries. Tough times reveal the difference in cultures, where patriots stay dedicated to the 'why' amidst challenges."Listen to the full episode with Cedric Pech through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-20-cedric-pechsuccess-is-a-marathon-with-cedric-pechCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

JP Bolen is the VP of Global Sales at Rubrik. He has a wealth of experience in sales and sales leadership, having worked at various companies such as Wallace Computer, PTC, Primo, Blade Logic, BMC Software, Dynamic Ops, VMware, ClearSlide, MongoDB, and ThoughtSpot.In this episode, JP emphasizes the importance of sales enablement and the three types of training: onboarding, ongoing, and field training. He shares his experience in implementing a comprehensive onboarding program at Rubrik, which includes interactive classes and real-life scenarios to help new hires become conversationally fluent in the problems Rubrik solves. JP also explains the concept of "winning the stage" in the sales process and how Rubrik measures conversion rates between different stages to identify areas for improvement. The conversation also touches on the significance of having a compelling point of view (POV) when engaging with customers and the role of continuous learning in sales success.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:08:43] JP's initial perception of enablement and his transition into the role[00:09:50] Introduction to Rubrik's onboarding training challenges[00:13:00] A deconstructed approach to onboarding was implemented for better learning.[00:15:59] Onboarding is structured into three tracks for scalability and continuous learning.[00:18:04] The first track focuses on value-based conversations and messaging.[00:19:41] Importance of leaders following up and providing support[00:25:12] Empathy, listening, questioning, and curiosity in discovery[00:28:30] "Change the Game" initiative to drive mindset shift[00:37:39] Stage 1: Identifying pain, stakeholders, quantifying pain, developing champions[00:39:18] Stage 2: Creating a plan, technical validation, financial conversation[00:40:23] Importance of stage 1 and finding the real champion[00:43:12] Focus on understanding how deals got to their current stage[00:44:08] Importance of quantifying pain and understanding why they have to buy[00:45:17] Difficulty in conversion between stage 1 and 2[00:46:15] Implementing friction and champion go/no-go in stage 1 and 2[00:48:00] The importance of answering the 4 essential questions for success[00:49:17] Example of adding information to the framework[00:51:11] Initial challenges faced and the need for a common framework[00:53:55] Training reps to go into accounts with a compelling point of viewADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about JP Bolen:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpbolen/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders: https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:05:11] “The single most important metric inside a company is sales productivity. You have quota, a product, and how well you perform against the quota. The variables and leverage points are obviously who you hire because that's going to dictate a lot. But once you get them in, it's how quickly they can actually understand the customer's problems, the things that customers are going through, the pains they have, and how well you differently address those problems and become productive with the skills and execution.”[00:57:10] “I remember you and I spoke a lot before I took this role. I talked to Grant Wilson a lot. At one point, I was talking to Grant about the things that we were doing. I was explaining to save the data. I was explaining these different pieces. And he said, ‘You're not enabling, like you're not just enabling, you're transforming, you're doing sales transformation inside of the company.’” Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan dive deep into the critical role of the CFO in sales deals, especially in uncertain times. Michael Cremen joined us when he was the CSO of Elastic. The discussion revolves around the importance of understanding and addressing the CFO factor, failing fast, and asking the hard questions. The episode provides valuable insights for sales professionals on navigating financial implications, engaging champions effectively, and using strategic language to secure deals.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:36] Competing Beyond Competitors: Salespeople must recognize they're not just competing against direct competitors but against all the other potential investments the CFO could make.[00:01:44] Stacking Up Against Priorities: The real competition lies in how your cost justification compares to all the other initiatives the CFO is juggling.[00:03:24] The Timing Dilemma: Discussion on whether to go early and seek advice or go late and face critique from CFOs. Emphasis on the importance of early engagement and seeking guidance before formal proposals.[00:05:08] Champion Dynamics: The significance of going with a champion and the potential pitfalls of leaving them out of crucial conversations with CFOs.[00:07:36] Strategic Language: The hosts and Michael Kremen discuss the importance of using precise language that conveys the value proposition and justifies the presence of the sales team at the CFO level.[00:09:28] Embracing Paranoia: Encouragement for sales teams to be paranoid and vigilant, especially when dealing with high-stakes deals and engaging CFOs.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:08:18] "The best sales teams on the planet are paranoid, like viciously paranoid. If you think it's going to sail through and everything's fine, be careful, be paranoid."[00:10:09] "People rarely argue with their own conclusions. When you ask them to walk you through a scenario and they realize that they've just answered the question, it just makes it a lot easier."[00:11:38] "It needs to be in their language, in their parameters. If you're forcing your goals, the way you read things, the way you're measured onto your customers, they don't understand it."Listen to the full episode with Michael Cremen through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/connecting-to-value-with-michael-cremenCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Harsha Jalihal is the Chief People Officer at MongoDB. She has a background in HR and has worked in various leadership roles at companies like Cognizant and Unilever.In this episode, Harsha emphasizes the importance of balancing the needs of the business with the needs of the employees. She discusses the role of different departments in driving business outcomes and highlights the significance of understanding human behavior and motivations. Harsha also emphasizes the role of trust in building strong relationships and the importance of authenticity and transparency in leadership. She shares insights on managing conflicts, setting clear expectations, and addressing stress and burnout, particularly among salespeople.Tune in to this conversation with John McMahon and John Kaplan on the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:03:01] Balancing the needs of the business and employees[00:08:55] Understanding individual employee motivations[00:12:59] Embracing reality and being direct leads to success[00:15:48] The power of being honest and authentic as a leader[00:18:06] Trusting gut instincts and giving people space and time[00:22:23] Importance of giving feedback to employees about performance issues[00:29:11] Enjoyment of work environment and culture impacts employee retention[00:39:20] Trust is built through credibility, reliability, and selflessness[00:47:38] Handling conflicting motivations and emphasizing the bigger objective[00:55:00] Employee motivations in a changing economyADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Harsha Jalihal:https://www.linkedin.com/in/harshajalihal/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders: https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:51:59] "It's how their words land. The impact they're having is what causes the problem. Sometimes you have to help them see how they are showing up, how the other person is perceiving it. Because when you're in the moment, you don't see it, but a 3rd person watching this interaction between 2 people can see it."[00:57:28] "I think employees are starting to look for slightly different things. Now, even in the technology industry, you talk to our recruiters. They'll tell you simple things like they want just what they just want stability because they've seen so much upheaval up and down. They want to work for a company that is still growing as opposed to a company that's laying people off." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast, join hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan as they explore the multifaceted world of sales champions with veteran sales leader and author Richard Rivera. Discover the nuances of champion dynamics, including the often-overlooked aspect of bias for action. Rivera breaks down the four champion tendencies—Complacent, Teaser, Protector, and Transformer—revealing strategies to navigate each and ensure successful deals.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:02] Understanding the Bias for Action: Richard Rivera introduces the concept of bias for action in champions, emphasizing its crucial role in sales success.[00:02:29] The Defining Characteristics of a Champion: The importance of champions not just having power and influence but actively taking action on behalf of the salesperson.[00:03:36] Dimensions of Champion Tendencies: Rivera introduces a framework with two dimensions—appreciation for innovation and bias for action—to categorize champions into four tendencies.[00:05:59] The Protector Tendency: Exploring champions who take action but lean towards risk-averse decisions, and how to navigate objections from such individuals.[00:06:38] The Transformer: Rivera's favorite tendency, champions who prioritize innovation and have a bias for action, but with potential pitfalls. Strategies for dealing with Transformers in the sales process.[00:08:44] Selling in a Collective Yes Environment: Acknowledging the shift towards collective decision-making and the challenge of navigating the intricacies of multiple decision-makers and influencers.[00:11:19] Becoming the Protector: When dealing with Transformers, the importance of assuming a protector role—anticipating risks and ensuring a smooth decision-making process.[00:12:48] Early Challenges with Transformers: Highlighting the risk of Transformers going too early to the economic buyer and losing the deal due to lack of preparation.[00:14:37] What We Heard Concept: Introducing a mature approach to address potential conflicts with Transformers by referring back to shared understandings and perspectives.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:03:16] "If they're not taking action, they are not being a champion for us."[00:06:18] "Recognize who you have and then fill their gaps."[00:09:10] "If you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with."[00:13:46] "What we heard is a mature way to address potential conflicts."Here are the links to our full episodes with Richard Rivera: Part 1: https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/developing-buyer-champions-with-richard-rivera-part-1Part 2: https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/developing-elite-sales-habits-with-richard-rivera-part-2Check out Richard Rivera’s book here: https://www.amazon.com/CHAMPION-SELL-L-I-T-Building-Champions/dp/B0BV415V9M/ref=sr_1_1Check out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, Kelly Connery delved into the nuances of transitioning into leadership roles, specifically focusing on the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) position. Kelly shares invaluable insights from his extensive experience in various leadership positions, offering crucial advice on leadership, team alignment, and global perspectives crucial for success in the CRO role.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:10] Transitioning to Leadership: Moving from a singular contributor to a manager requires a shift from a selfish mindset to a selfless one, focusing on team success over individual achievements.[00:02:33] Embracing Coaching: Finding fulfillment in guiding and coaching the team often marks a natural progression for effective leadership.[00:03:51] Emphasis on Fundamentals: Emotional connection to the fundamentals is a key indicator of an individual's potential to excel as a coach or leader.[00:04:30] Realities of the CRO Role: Moving into a CRO position involves seeking alignment with the board, understanding growth objectives, leveraging technology, and comprehending global perspectives.[00:07:33] Decision-Making and Managing Influences: Handling situations where multiple stakeholders offer conflicting advice and ultimately making decisions as a CRO.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:28] "It's not about certain individuals. It's all about the team."[00:03:51] "If they're emotionally connected to fundamentals, they're typically going to be a really good coach."[00:05:59] "Look for alignment. Challenges will come, but without alignment, it's going to be difficult."[00:07:33] "You have to make a decision. Get all these people whispering in your ear, and the buck stops with you."Listen to the full episode with Kelly Connery through this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/the-art-of-selfless-leadership-with-kelly-conneryCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Join hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan in a profound exploration of Product-Led Growth (PLG) and its seamless integration with traditional sales strategies. Guest expert Alex Bilmes, CEO of Endgame, shares practical insights and strategies for revenue leaders aiming to leverage product data to supercharge their sales efforts. Discover how PLG, far from being a threat to sales, serves as a force multiplier when intelligently integrated. Gain valuable perspectives on aligning product signals with conversion and expansion, making sales teams more efficient, and navigating the evolving landscape of modern go-to-market strategies.Tune in and learn more in this episode of the Revenue Builders podcast.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:04:10] Understanding PLG Spectrum[00:05:54] Product Suitability for PLG[00:09:38] PLG Implementation Questions[00:13:28] Sales Integration with PLG[00:22:32] Ownership of PLG[00:35:11] Implementing PLG[00:43:42] Endgame's Role[00:46:39] Implementation Process[00:49:06] Standard Product Signals[00:55:30] Navigating Uncertain EconomiesADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Alex Bilmes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bilmes/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders: https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:02:24] "The definition of PLG is effectively that the product is the primary driver of your go-to-market."[00:06:19] "Calendly is a prototypical, very easy-to-get-started-with PLG example. The product would be so great that people could just come in and use it."[00:10:59] "We see a huge opportunity for a PLG company who's done some amount of that work already. How do you better tie in the sales efforts to accelerate the sales process using a lot of that product data?"[00:24:20] "In a PLG motion, everybody's interfacing on the same product data. So that entire team is operating against that shared source of truth, which makes it more multi-threaded, maybe a little bit more complex, but also easier for the customer to understand." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, Chris Reising, a five-time Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) with extensive experience in scaling sales at early-stage tech companies, shares invaluable insights into the challenges and strategies involved in scaling sales functions for startups. From finding product-market fit to hiring the right sales reps and understanding the importance of pain points, this conversation provides a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:17] In the early stages of a startup, you must wear multiple hats, including being a product manager and a sales professional. Understanding the ICP and gathering customer insights are crucial.[00:02:31] The early days of a startup involve learning every day, attending sales meetings, understanding objections, and identifying the value your technology brings. Effective communication with the product team is key.[00:04:05] Investor relations play a significant role. Early-stage investors look for different data points, and their feedback can be invaluable in understanding market signals.[00:06:11] The importance of prioritizing technology components based on customer pain points and the potential to generate immediate revenue.[00:07:44] Recognizing a recurring pattern in sales discussions where customers react positively to specific functionalities is a sign of repeatability and scalability.[00:09:05] Founders who want to remain deeply involved in the sales process need guidance on when to step back. It's a common challenge in early-stage startups.[00:12:42] Breaking down a grand vision into bite-sized chunks of value that address specific business problems is crucial for achieving repeatability and market success.[00:13:30] Expanding the vision is essential but keeping the framework simple enough for the market and sales team to understand and execute is key to early-stage success.[00:13:50] The importance of focusing sales efforts on the most productive areas and avoiding the mistake of spreading sales teams too thin.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:06:56] "When you start to recognize a recurring pattern...you start to say, 'Now I have some sense of repeatability,' and that's really important."[00:10:08] "There's a huge difference between a first and second-time founder...you need to help them understand that stepping away is an important part of growing the business."[00:13:01] "Recognize you've got to break that big vision down into bite-sized chunks that can be digested by your go-to-market team and by the market, by customers."[00:13:30] "Where are we going to place our salespeople? Where are they going to be the most productive? That's really a key point."Listen to the full episode with Chris Reisig in this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/building-a-scalable-culture-with-chris-reisigCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Devdutt Yellurkar is a managing partner at CRV and has a wealth of experience as a sales VP, CEO, and venture capitalist. He has worked with several successful startups and has a deep understanding of the sales process and building successful companies. Devdutt is also a co-founder of the VC fund named Propeller, which focuses on investing in companies that address climate change.In this conversation with John McMahon, Devdutt shares his insights on how his experience in sales has helped him as a CEO and venture capitalist. He discusses the importance of sales in building a company and the role of a CEO in selling the company's vision. He talks about making hiring mistakes and how sales has changed with the speed of new technologies and new sales models. Devdutt emphasizes the need for empathy and non-judgmental support when working with founders and the importance of persistence in achieving success. Finally, he discusses the impact of climate change and how venture capital can be a powerful tool in addressing this global issue.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:08:10] The importance of selling as a CEO[00:11:11] Selling enterprise software and the importance of storytelling[00:11:53] Jack Welch admitted to making hiring mistakes as a CEO.[00:14:48] Forecasting in sales helped in forecasting as a CEO.[00:16:49] Pipeline coverage is key to mitigating deal slippage.[00:19:03] Tough experiences provide valuable lessons for growth.[00:27:01] Implementation of sales methodology and importance of qualification.[00:30:51] Importance of being a grandparent, not a parent, as a board member.[00:44:04] The power of persistence in achieving success.[01:04:48] Propeller VC fund was started to address climate change.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Devdutt Yellurkar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devduttyellurkar/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders: https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:54:15] "Because you want your resource, your best resources are actually focused on taking a pro license and moving it to a strategic relationship, because that's when emotional intelligence is needed."[01:04:23] "You can't just be a sales guy because, you know, as we discussed earlier, a lot of this is around product market fit. And that is a lot through kind of understanding the market, understanding your customer. Understanding technology." Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, Anne Gary, Managing Director at Force Management, dive into the crucial topic of identifying and understanding champions in the sales process. They explore the differences between business champions and technical champions, the significance of the power chart, and the role of coaches. Discover how to distinguish between these key players, the indicators to look for when meeting potential champions, and the importance of aligning with individuals who have both authority and influence within an organization.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:01:21] Start with an organization chart to understand the hierarchy, reporting structure, and positional authority within an organization.[00:02:33] Identify not only positional authority but also influence within the organization, as influence plays a crucial role in decision-making.[00:03:44] Just because someone holds a position in the organization doesn't guarantee their influence in the sales process, especially with the economic buyer.[00:04:30] Look for change agents on the "power chart" who have a track record of making a positive impact on the organization.[00:06:02] Influence and authority are independent of hierarchy; influential champions can be found at various organizational levels.[00:07:23] Business champions focus on articulating positive business outcomes, while technical champions possess deep domain expertise.[00:10:10] Champions provide access to the economic buyer's power, which is essential for controlling the decision process.[00:12:26] Coaches offer valuable insights and guidance but may lack the authority and influence to access the economic buyer.[00:13:40] Continuously test conversations to identify whether you're developing a technical champion or a champion with the necessary business acumen.[00:15:11] Business champions address substantial business problems "above the noise" and speak in terms of business outcomes.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:03:44] "Just because somebody has positional authority in a company, we can't automatically conclude that they have power in the organization over a potential decision to buy our software."[00:04:30] "Start by looking for change agents on the 'power chart,' individuals who have made a positive impact on the organization in the past."[00:07:23] "Business champions focus on articulating positive business outcomes, while technical champions possess deep domain expertise."[00:10:10] "You really know you're in control when you have a champion that's selling on your behalf, helping you control the decision criteria in terms of influence."[00:15:11] "Business champions address substantial business problems 'above the noise' and speak in terms of business outcomes."Listen to the full episode with Anne Gary in this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/finding-your-champion-with-anne-garyListen to the episode we did with Anne Gary on Economic Buyers here: https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/getting-to-the-economic-buyer-with-anne-garyCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender Platform: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Paul Ohls is the Chief Revenue Officer at Sprinklr. He has had a successful career in sales leadership, working at companies like Aerotech, Ariba, NuScale, Zillent, Lattice Engines, Medallia, Fuse, tenfold, and now Sprinklr.In this conversation with John McMahon, Paul shares his insights on sales leadership and the importance of hiring the right people. He emphasizes the need for intelligent, driven, and coachable individuals who can ask insightful questions and think critically. Paul also discusses the challenges of forecasting and the importance of focusing on the fundamentals. He highlights the value of understanding the customer's pain points and aligning the solution with their objectives. Additionally, Paul emphasizes the need for a strong pipeline and the importance of conversion rates in driving sales success.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:11] - Overview of Sprinkler and its purpose[00:07:16] - Testing for key characteristics in potential hires[00:24:23] - Focus on testing and optimizing fundamentals in the sales process[00:30:06] - Enabling the team to have a realistic view of their forecast[00:35:45] - Considering the stage of new deals and their likelihood of closing[00:38:56] - Diagnosing reasons for consistently high forecasts.[00:40:12] - Implicated pain and alignment with decision criteria indicate a committable deal.[00:42:07] - Differentiating recruiting process through sales manager pipeline generation.[00:44:35] - Using a simulation exercise to assess candidate skills and fit.[00:54:40] - Key KPIs for decision-making: leading indicators and conversion rates.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Paul Ohls: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulohls/overlay/about-this-profile/Download our Sales Transformation Guide for Leaders: https://forc.mx/3sdtEZJHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:19:38] "If you've done the right things and you truly are connected to a corporate objective, if you think about the concept of a value pyramid, those handful of things that are at the top of that value pyramid, oftentimes the things that the C level CEO has promised Wall Street, has promised investors. We aspire to go from X to Y. We are making acquisitions. We got to monetize those acquisitions, those acquisitions, these, these big things. If you have started there and your solution is you can make a direct correlation between what you are working with your champion on. To the inability of a company to deliver upon those things at the top of the value pyramid, the CFO meeting should be relative, like a relatively easy thing to do." - Paul Ohls[00:55:34] “What we ask our leaders to do is we call it sales manager or sales leader PG. So we're asking pipeline generation. For those that don't know what that means. We ask sellers and other people in the ecosystem to dedicate time. To go build their pipeline on future deals, block out the world, spend your time doing this set of work in a defined period every single week." - Paul Ohls Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

In this episode of The Revenue Builders Podcast hosted by John McMahon and John Kaplan, Snowflake's CRO Chris Degnan delves into the pivotal decisions and strategies that led Snowflake to its incredible growth. Chris shares insights into recognizing key moments and adapting to changing market dynamics. From selling to large enterprises to navigating the shift to the cloud, Chris provides valuable lessons on scaling a successful business.KEY TAKEAWAYS[00:00:53] The pivotal moment when Capital One became a game-changer for Snowflake's growth.[00:02:21] Identifying an ideal customer profile and how it reshaped Snowflake's strategy.[00:03:06] Mechanically expanding the addressable market and pursuing a larger customer base.[00:06:40] Balancing the rapid expansion of the addressable market while maintaining focus and not overextending.[00:08:40] Adapting to changes and reorganizing the sales team to effectively target large enterprises.[00:10:32] The importance of adaptability, coachability, and a willingness to try new strategies.[00:12:40] The significance of understanding your company's culture and capabilities before making major changes.HIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:01:19] "We got something, and it was a lot of work because they wanted us to do more engineering work than we originally planned."[00:04:43] "You can't build a business on just the large enterprise. Getting new logos matters."[00:05:53] "The competition can't help them vacate the data center; Snowflake can."[00:07:28] "You can't sell to the large enterprise the same way you're selling to small and medium businesses."[00:09:24] "What worked before doesn't mean it's going to work forever."[00:10:50] "You gotta figure out, is this game-changing? How do you balance it and understand what you have in the kitchen before bringing something new?"[00:12:40] "Before you decide to remodel, figure out what's in the kitchen first."Listen to the full episode with Chris Degnan in this link:https://revenue-builders.simplecast.com/episodes/scaling-and-growth-with-chris-degnanCheck out John McMahon’s book here:Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/1K7DDC4Check out Force Management’s Ascender platform here: https://my.ascender.co/Ascender/ Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management

Pawan Deshpande is a serial entrepreneur and angel investor, and a Head of Product & Growth at Linea. He has founded multiple successful companies, including Curata, a content marketing and analytics software company. Pawan has extensive experience in customer success and has implemented a critical care framework to improve customer retention and satisfaction.Pawan shares his experience with customer success and introduces the concept of critical care, a proactive approach to customer support. He discusses the four distinct ways companies handle customer success: reactive support, onboarding, business reviews, and critical care. Pawan emphasizes the importance of a culture of ownership within the customer success team and the need for proactive monitoring of customer health. He also highlights the role of instrumentation and telemetry in detecting issues and setting appropriate thresholds. Pawan concludes by discussing the mindset shift required for effective customer success and the potential for upselling within the customer success role.HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:05:11] Discussion of the challenges faced by Curata and the need for a culture change[00:07:28] The importance of breaking down silos between customer success, sales, and product/engineering teams[00:09:00] Creating collaboration between customer success and sales through pod structures[00:10:36] Outcome-oriented goal setting for customer success teams[00:11:01] Reactive support is like urgent care for customers[00:16:58] Building instrumentation and telemetry into the product is important[00:31:04] Importance of setting up thresholds for customer intervention[00:38:21] Incentivizing customer success team through variable compensation[00:41:42] Customer success is more important than sales for sustaining a business[00:46:30] Client success should be involved in upsells, but may need partnershipADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Pawan Deshpande: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pawandeshpande/How to Make QBRs Valuable for Your Customers: https://forc.mx/3s1Q3JzBecome a Must-Have Solution for Customers in Any Economy: https://forc.mx/45ZRo1zHIGHLIGHT QUOTES[00:06:36] So what I did is I pulled my desk into the customer success room. And it was really eye-opening when I pulled up a desk in there and I would just work out of there and hear the conversations. What I really heard was a culture of futility. - Pawan Deshpande[00:10:18] And that's like the impetus for critical care. That was one of the key instrumentations we had was detecting if someone hasn't used the product for 14 days, then we kind of swarmed the customer and tried to revive the account. - Pawan Deshpande[00:22:37] And just on the usage, you know, that was particular to us and not all companies are like that. Our product is more like a gym membership. If you don't go to the gym every day, you're probably not going to show up ever again. - Pawan Deshpande Hosted by five-time CRO John McMahon and Force Management Co-Founder John Kaplan, the Revenue Builders podcast goes behind the scenes with the sales leaders who have been there, done that, and seen the results.  This show is brought to you by Force Management. We help companies improve sales performance, executing their growth strategy at the point of sale.  Connect with Us: LinkedInYouTubeForce Management