Marketing visionary David Meerman Scott returns to share his cutting-edge insights into the evolving digital marketing landscape. From being dismissed for his innovative ideas to becoming a global thought leader, David recounts his journey and the immense growth in online engagement that has shaped today’s marketing world. With AI, social media, and video now at the forefront, David stresses the importance of keeping human connection alive in our digital interactions.

Storytelling emerges as a powerful tool in marketing, and we discuss how businesses can form genuine bonds with their audiences through impactful content. Drawing on examples like Hagerty Insurance’s success with classic car enthusiasts, we highlight the struggle many companies face as they cling to outdated strategies. AI's role in content creation is explored, showcasing how it has transformed tasks like transcription and editing, allowing for efficient production of diverse content without compromising on quality.

We dive into modern tools that streamline content creation, eradicating the "no time" excuse. Leveraging AI models and transcription services, creating high-quality content for web and social media is now faster than ever. We emphasize establishing authority through consistent content production, as AI-based search tools gain traction. The episode wraps up with niche content strategies, revealing how specific themes can capture media interest and unlock unique opportunities amidst rapid technological advancements.

David Meerman Scott spotted the real-time marketing revolution in its infancy and wrote five books about it including The New Rules of Marketing and PR, now in an 8th edition, with more than 425,000 copies sold in English and available in 29 languages from Albanian to Vietnamese. Now David says the pendulum has swung too far in the direction of superficial online communications. Tech-weary and bot-wary people are hungry for true human connection. Organizations have learned to win by developing what David calls a “Fanocracy” - (the subject of his Wall Street Journal bestseller) - tapping into the mindset that relationships with customers are more important than the products they sell to them. He is a massive live music fan, having been to 984 live shows since he was 15 years old, is passionate about the Apollo lunar program, and he loves to surf but isn't very good at it.

Quotes:

"In an AI-driven world, maintaining humanity in digital interactions is more crucial than ever."

"Storytelling isn't just about telling tales; it's about forging genuine connections with your audience."

"The excuse of 'no time' for content creation is obsolete with the modern tools we have today."

Links:

David’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmeermanscott/

Fanocracy - https://www.davidmeermanscott.com/books/fanocracy

The New Rules of Marketing & PR (9th Edition) - https://www.davidmeermanscott.com/books/the-new-rules-of-marketing-and-pr

Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog

Unlock the secrets to thriving as a sales leader with Jean-Sebastien Guy, Chief Commercial Officer at Micro Logic. You'll gain invaluable insights into the concept of digital sovereignty, its rising significance in Europe, and the compliance hurdles faced by international companies. Jean-Sebastien's success story is built on three pivotal elements: exceptional coaching, striking the perfect balance between data-driven decisions and intuition, and embodying humility in leadership. We'll also uncover the vital role of teamwork and the power of acknowledging contributions. As a special treat, hear the heartfelt story behind a hockey stick signed by Mario Lemieux that continues to inspire Jean-Sebastien.

Transitioning from a sales role to a leadership position is no small feat, and Jean-Sebastien shares his wisdom on the importance of timing, gut instincts, and being a team player. Discover what sets standout salespeople apart, including personality, drive, and that elusive "eye of the tiger." We also explore the evolving hiring process, emphasizing the shared responsibility between individuals and companies for ensuring success. Tough interview questions and a solid onboarding program are crucial, as is the role of CRM systems in maintaining transparency and organization. Learn how to align with C-suite executives and deliver measurable results in your second year of sales leadership. This episode is packed with essential strategies for any sales leader aiming to elevate their game!

Jean-Sebastien is a high-velocity, forward-thinking executive with 20 years of experience in achieving targets and delivering sustainable recurring-revenue growth, with both large tech companies as well as scale-up and value-added reseller. With an in-depth understanding of market positioning and a passion for leveraging talent, he’s driven by excellence, while keeping in mind the people behind it. He’s currently leading the go-to-market strategy and teams that owns the customer journey, from initial brand awareness all the way through value-realization, and every step along the way. This includes Digital Marketing, Business Development, Sales, Pre-Sales, Renewals, and Customer Success. He considers himself an enthusiastic yet humble leader, who fosters collaborative culture built on transparency, empathy, frequent communications, and fun!

Quotes:

"Digital sovereignty is not just a concept; it's a crucial aspect of data management and compliance, especially in Europe. It's about having control over your data, ensuring it's stored, processed, and protected within the country's borders...Countries and legislation around the world need to build their own digital sovereignty to fuel the next wave of AI innovation."

"Great coaching is the foundation of success. It's about having mentors who know your potential and push you to go the extra mile."

"While data-driven decisions are important, never underestimate the power of your gut feeling. Your intuition is based on countless data points and observations, making it a powerful tool in decision-making."

Links:

Jean-Sebastien's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jstheguy/

Micro Logic - https://micrologic.ca/en/

Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog

Unlock the secrets of sales leadership and discover the power of tenacity with Sylvain Jacob, Vice President of Sales at MicroServe. Listen as Sylvain takes us on his inspiring journey from a paperboy to leading a dynamic sales team in the competitive IT services industry. You'll learn invaluable lessons on understanding customer needs, building partnerships with OEMs, and the sheer joy of acquiring new customers, as well as navigating the challenges of payment collections.

Sylvain shares his conscious transition from a high-performing individual contributor to a leadership role, underscoring the pivotal role of mentorship. Gain insight into how coaching and guidance helped him overcome initial setbacks and develop his leadership skills. This episode emphasizes the importance of mentoring within organizations and through external programs, demonstrating the rewarding experience of guiding new graduates and the broader cultural impact of giving back to the community.

We'll also explore the entrepreneurial culture at MicroServe, where autonomy and long-term relationships are key. Sylvain explains how the company avoids micromanagement and embraces a performance-driven yet flexible environment. Learn about the benefits of being privately owned, promoting from within, and the strategic importance of engaging early in the sales cycle. Don't miss Sylvain's insights on CRM management and the exciting future plans for optimizing sales processes at MicroServe.

Sylvain Jacob is a dynamic sales and management executive with a strong foundation in IT solutions and strategic partnerships across Canadian enterprise and public sectors. With a Bachelor of Business Administration in Operational Research from Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, he began his career at Hewlett Packard and advanced to VP of Sales at Microserve. Known for his communication, business analysis, and strategic thinking skills, Sylvain consistently exceeds sales goals by fostering long-term relationships and uncovering new opportunities. He is bilingual, fluent in English and French.

Quotes:

"Sales starts with a 'no.' It's about finding the customer's pain point and having the tenacity to keep the conversation going until you can help them."

"Leadership skills are honed over time, not innate. My journey from an individual contributor to a leadership role was guided by valuable mentorship."

"It's not all about you; it's about the value you provide to the organization. Shift your perspective and think about how you can deliver value."

Links:

Sylvain’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvainjacob1/

Microserve - https://www.microserve.ca

Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog

What does it take to transform a military upbringing into a thriving IT services business? Mike Wickham, a West Point graduate and the force behind the successful SD Tech, joins us to share his incredible journey. Through insightful anecdotes, Mike reveals how his curiosity, meticulous preparation, and unwavering integrity have been fundamental to his career. He also discusses the profound impact his international business experiences have had on his approach to sales and business development, emphasizing the joy he finds in meeting new people and understanding their motivations. Leadership is not just about directing but also about enabling others to succeed. Mike delves into his leadership philosophy, underscoring the importance of collaboration and open communication within a team. He advocates for a culture where team members bring solutions to the table, not just problems, fostering ownership and responsibility. We also discuss the critical role of data-driven performance monitoring, clear organizational goals, and the mentorship of future leaders. Mike's practical advice for young leaders highlights the necessity of respecting experienced colleagues and balancing confidence with humility.

Shifting gears, we reflect on the true essence of career fulfillment versus the often misleading pursuit of money and status. Mike shares personal stories about the importance of gratitude and the serendipitous turns that can lead to the most rewarding experiences. We also navigate the often complex world of CRM systems, discussing how proper data management and addressing underlying sales processes are crucial before implementation. Tune in to hear Mike's candid thoughts on maintaining CRM effectiveness and the exciting future of AI in streamlining data entry. This episode is packed with rich insights and practical advice that you won't want to miss.

Mike Wickham, born in San Antonio into an Air Force family, spent his early years between Texas and various locations across Asia. After high school, he was appointed to the US Military Academy at West Point, where he later graduated and served as an artillery officer in the US Army. His final military assignment was as commander of a nuclear-capable field artillery unit in Europe. Following his military service, Mike launched a 20+ year career in international business, working for prominent telecom and technology companies like AT&T, MCI International, IDT, and V-Band. Based in the New York City area, he helped develop markets across Europe, Asia, and Latin America through strategic partnerships and joint ventures. Now residing in Texas, Mike continues to provide technology solutions to the Central Texas market.

Quotes:

"Frankness is crucial. If there's a problem, put it right in people's faces and say, 'We all own this.' It fosters a culture of ownership and responsibility."

"I've always been curious about what people do, why they do it, and how they do it. Integrity sets the tone for everything you do in sales. If people can't trust you, they won't buy from you."

"Chasing money and status can be a pitfall. True fulfillment comes from doing work that brings joy and satisfaction."

Links:

Mike’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvwickham/

SD Tech - https://www.sd-tech.net

Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog

Unlock the secrets to successful wealth management with Kevin Corbett, Managing Director of Corporate Development and Strategy at Mariner Wealth Advisors. Gain valuable insights into Mariner's rapid growth strategy aimed at affluent and high-net-worth individuals, and discover how Kevin's expertise in M&A opportunities has propelled the firm to operate across 41 states with over 800 advisors. Learn the three keystones of Kevin's success: meticulous attention to detail, unwavering honesty and integrity, and the power of teamwork. Kevin also delves into the emotional journey of entrepreneurs transitioning from owners to employees, offering a unique perspective on the psychological elements of selling.

Trace Kevin's professional journey from working directly with individual clients to liaising with institutions and advisors. Explore his career-defining move to North Texas in 2003 to join Fidelity Institutional, where he played a pivotal role in helping advisors establish their own RIA firms. Uncover the story of Kevin's relationship with Marty Bicknell, the founder and CEO of Mariner Wealth, and how their shared values and trust shape Mariner's client-first mindset. This episode underscores the cultural considerations in business acquisitions and the importance of maintaining strong personal connections for long-term success.

In our conversation, we emphasize the significance of fostering a culture of success within a team, where putting the customer first and delivering exceptional value are paramount. We discuss the challenges of evaluating cultural fit remotely and the benefits of viewing partnerships over mere vendor relationships. Reputation and integrity take center stage as Kevin shares how high standards and nurturing long-term relationships can unlock growth opportunities. Finally, we highlight the indispensable role of CRM systems in managing deals, fostering accountability, and driving strategic decision-making through meticulous data tracking. Join us for an episode brimming with actionable strategies and insights into the dynamic world of wealth management.

Kevin helps lead the corporate development function at Mariner Wealth Advisors. His work includes the strategic lift-out of advisors and teams, assessing and identifying key talent for recruiting, as well as RIA firm acquisitions across the U.S. Kevin works closely with a wide range of industry participants (investment banks, RIA custodians, COIs, etc.) across the industry in pursuit of our goals. He is also a member of the Mariner Trust Company Board of Managers.

Prior to joining the firm, Kevin was a senior relationship manager at Fidelity Investments, where he worked closely with Mariner Wealth Advisors. Through his 17-year tenure at Fidelity, Kevin held various roles throughout the retail and institutional brokerage businesses, including positions in national financial services, capital markets and institutional wealth services. Kevin’s past experience also includes working as a head trader with Bainco International Investors. Kevin has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.

Quotes:

"I think attention to detail is paramount. Understanding every facet of a potential acquisition ensures our conversations are in-depth and truly beneficial."

"Honesty and integrity have been hallmarks of my career. In financial services, where trust is everything, being upfront and truthful builds lasting relationships."

"You can't achieve success in isolation. It's about leveraging the strengths of your team and knowing that it takes a village to close a deal."

Links:

Kevin’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-w-corbett/

Mariner - https://www.marinerwealthadvisors.com

Find this episode and all other Sales Lead Dog episodes at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog/

Unlock the secrets to successful sales leadership as we sit down with Lee Weech, Vice President of Sales for Executech. Learn from Lee's vast experience as he discusses how Executech has thrived over the past 25 years in managed services, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions. Discover why cloud migration and robust cybersecurity measures are more critical now than ever and get tips on how to protect your corporate data in the age of AI technologies like ChatGPT.

Gain priceless insights from Lee’s early sales experiences, where transparency and confidence played a pivotal role in closing deals. Hear his candid stories about failures and the lessons they imparted, illustrating how accountability and resilience can turn professional hardships into stepping stones for success. Lee's personal philosophy on sales will inspire you, whether you're starting your career or looking to overcome your own professional challenges.

Peek behind the curtain of sales leadership with Lee as he shares the ups and downs of steering a team in the managed service provider industry. Learn the art of balancing responsibilities, the importance of self-care, and the role of delegation in fostering a cohesive and successful team. Lee’s approach to hiring, transparency, and leadership will offer you practical strategies to build a supportive, honest, and high-energy work environment. Tune in for invaluable lessons and inspiring stories that can transform your approach to sales and leadership. Lee Weech is the Vice President of Sales for Executech having helped clients find solutions for Managed IT, Security and Cloud-based solutions to improve their efficiencies for 8 years within 8 locations in 6 states.

Lee is originally from San Diego moving to Utah is 2005. Along with his two kids, Jackson 18 and Kara 16, they enjoy a very active life together including ATV riding, skiing, golf, hiking, paddle boarding, traveling and proud to carry the National Park annual pass. Lee enjoys giving back to the community as the former chair of the Salt Lake City President Ambassadors and volunteers within the Daybreak community in South Jordan, UT.

Quotes:

"Honesty, showing up, and transparency are the core values I hold true. Whether it's telling a client they don't need an expensive solution or showing up in a snowstorm, these principles build trust and long-term relationships."

"The hardest thing for me in leadership is delegation. By doing everything myself, I'm not helping my team grow. It's important to give them opportunities to handle challenging situations, knowing I've got their back."

"Reflecting on past failures, I've learned that lack of effort and attention to detail can lead to job losses, but these experiences also serve as critical learning opportunities. Accountability and resilience are key to transforming professional hardships into stepping stones for success."

Links:

Lee’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leeweech/

Executech - https://www.executech.com

Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog

Kevin Kostiner, Chief Commercial Officer of ClimaFi, joins us to discuss their revolutionary microgrid technologies and strategic energy solutions. As grid instability grows, Kevin emphasizes the crucial need for businesses to secure reliable energy sources to avoid disruptions. Drawing from his own career, he shares invaluable advice on the importance of focus, passion, and perseverance. We also explore the shifting landscape of career trends in the tech industry, from long-term employment to frequent job changes.

In a heartfelt segment, we tackle the transformative power of vulnerability and genuine confidence. Behind the polished exteriors often seen at business events, many rely on artificial confidence to hide insecurities. By sharing personal anecdotes from my entrepreneurial journey and my daughter's post-college challenges, we highlight how embracing discomfort and being open about struggles can lead to meaningful connections and personal growth.

Lastly, we delve into authenticity in leadership and the evolving virtual work culture. The shift to remote work has allowed for greater authenticity and a healthier work-life balance. We discuss the importance of supporting employees' passions, the benefits of casual attire, and how personal touches in virtual settings can foster deeper connections. We also emphasize the significance of effective CRM systems in enhancing productivity and avoiding manual inefficiencies. Tune in for a comprehensive look at achieving success in sales leadership and creating a thriving, authentic work environment.

Kevin Kostiner is the Chief Commercial Officer at ClimaFi, an innovative startup backed by Google Ventures, focused on revolutionizing microgrid solutions through advanced software and funding. Prior to recently joining ClimaFi, Kevin spent 5 years as Head of Business Development & Partnerships at a leading electric vehicle charging manufacturer. As a recognized leader in the EV charging and renewable energy sectors, Kevin is focused on driving growth and forging impactful partnerships that expand sustainable solutions to deliver a greener present and future.

Quotes:

"In today's world of grid instability, businesses must proactively secure their energy needs to avoid operational disruptions. It's about building resilience and reliability into their infrastructure."

"The ability to focus, find interest in your work, and persevere through challenges are key drivers of success. It's not about a perfectly curated life plan but about being adaptable and seizing opportunities as they come."

"True confidence comes from embracing vulnerability and being genuine. The façade of artificial confidence at business events hides insecurities that many people have."

Links:

Kevin’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkostiner/

ClimaFi - https://www.climafi.com

Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog

What does it take to transition from engineering to leading a high-performing sales team? Join us on Sales Lead Dog as Cody George, Co-founder and Chief Sales Officer of RavenVolt, reveals his inspiring journey. Listen in as Cody discusses how his engineering roots and family background shaped his rise in sales leadership, and how he played a pivotal role in Ravenvolt's growth as a turnkey microgrid EPC since its inception in 2020. From maintaining integrity to fostering teamwork, Cody shares the core principles that have driven his success and fueled the company's rapid expansion.

Discover the nuances of building trust in sales leadership as Cody dives deep into his experience of moving from an engineering manager to VP of Sales, and ultimately, gaining a firsthand understanding of a salesperson's challenges. He emphasizes the importance of a team-centric approach, asking the right questions, and enabling star performers. Cody also underscores the significance of early wins, cross-departmental collaboration, and personal goal planning in creating a thriving work environment. The episode sheds light on overcoming trust deficits and building strong, lasting relationships with team members and customers alike.

Effective communication can make or break a sales team, and Cody brings this point home with compelling personal anecdotes. By highlighting the 7-38-55 rule and the power of face-to-face interactions, he illustrates how authentic listening and open dialogue are key to resolving trust issues. The episode also delves into the traits that matter most in building a successful sales team—competitiveness, discipline, and reliability. Wrapping up, we encourage you to connect with Cody on LinkedIn and subscribe to Sales Lead Dog for more engaging conversations. Don't miss out on this insightful episode packed with actionable takeaways for sales professionals!

Cody George, P.E. is one of the co-founders and President of Sales for RavenVolt Inc., An ABM Company providing commercial microgrid and utility battery solutions throughout the country operating as a turnkey EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction). An degreed Mechanical and licensed Electrical engineer at heart, Cody loves working with people and teams to find reliable long-term solutions to challenging, multifaceted energy problems as our country continues to electrify and work toward modernizing our electricity grid with renewable resources. He and his family enjoy a very active life including sports of any kind, exploring the outdoors, travel and early morning exercise.

Quotes:

"Passion for what you do is a huge strategic advantage in sales."

"Maintaining integrity, passion, and teamwork are the cornerstones of my success."

"Trust is foundational. If you're going to ask someone to do something, be willing to do it yourself."

"Sales might look like an individual sport, but it's truly a team sport."

Links:

Cody’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/codytgeorge/

RavenVolt - https://ravenvolt.com

Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog