Carson V. Heady's Blog, page 15

Master LinkedIn in 2025: Proven Strategies to Boost Connections, Engagement, and Your Personal Brand

Level Up Your LinkedIn in 2025: Humanity, Strategy, and Automation in Perfect Harmony

LinkedIn has become far more than a platform for sharing resumes or job hunting. It’s the ultimate coffee shop, 24/7 conference, and networking hub for professionals across industries.

As we step into 2025, the challenge isn’t just showing up on LinkedIn—it’s about standing out, creating genuine connections, and driving results in an increasingly noisy digital landscape.

But how do you make that happen?

On the latest episode of Mastering Modern Selling, Brandon Lee, Tom Burton and Carson V. Heady dives dee into how you can level up your LinkedIn game with a perfect mix of humanity, strategy, and automation to rise above the noise and truly make an impact.

Why LinkedIn is Your Coffee Shop

Imagine LinkedIn as a bustling coffee shop or conference floor. Everyone’s wearing name tags with their title, company, and expertise, giving you the perfect opening to start a conversation. Yet, many users skip the “chitchat” phase, jumping straight to business.

If you wouldn’t walk up to someone in a coffee shop and say, “Here’s my calendar link—book a meeting,” why do it on LinkedIn?LinkedIn is about building relationships, not transactions. Treat your connections like real people, not sales targets.The Humanity Factor: Why People Connect With People

LinkedIn isn’t just a professional platform; it’s a place where authenticity shines. Sharing your story—both personal and professional—can create connections that last longer than any sales pitch ever could.

People remember who you are before they care about what you sell.

Practical Tactics:

Share your humanity: Post about lessons you’ve learned, personal achievements, or challenges you’ve overcome.Keep it relevant: Tie personal experiences back to business or leadership insights. For example, achieving a fitness goal might translate into resilience lessons for sales.Balance is key: Post a mix of personal and professional content to build relatability while demonstrating your expertise.

Example: A post about overcoming a personal challenge can inspire your audience while positioning you as a leader who’s relatable and resilient.

Mastering Strategy: Revisit Your ICP Regularly

Your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) isn’t static. Industries, trends, and customer pain points evolve. If your LinkedIn content isn’t aligned with what your audience needs today, you’re missing opportunities.

When was the last time you revised your messaging based on what your audience is actually saying?

Key Tactics:

Study your audience: Use tools like LinkedIn Sales Navigator to identify your ideal customers and understand their current challenges.Tailor your messaging: Craft posts and outreach that speak directly to their pain points. Revisit this messaging every quarter.Engage intentionally: Follow and comment on the posts of leaders your audience admires to position yourself in the same space.

Practical Tip: Conduct quarterly reviews of your content performance. Identify what resonates most with your audience and double down on those topics.

Automation Done Right: Scale Without Losing Humanity

Automation can save time, but it’s often misused. Sending generic, spammy messages or making AI-generated comments might get attention—but not the kind you want.

Automation without personalization is just spam with a bigger megaphone.

Practical Automation Tactics:

Connection Requests: Use tools like Octopus CRM to send up to 100 personalized requests per week. Include a short note explaining why you want to connect.Messaging Campaigns: Target specific audiences (e.g., industry leaders, event attendees) with carefully crafted messages that add value.Content Engagement: Use automation tools to identify and engage with trending posts in your niche. Add thoughtful comments to build visibility.

Pro Tip: Always review AI-generated messages before sending. Ensure they align with your voice and add genuine value.

Consistency Over Perfection

Many professionals hesitate to post on LinkedIn because they’re worried about getting it wrong. The truth? Consistency beats perfection every time.

What’s worse: posting imperfect content or never showing up at all?

Key Tactics:

Start small: Aim for one post per week. Gradually increase as you grow more comfortable.Set a rhythm: Dedicate 15-30 minutes daily to engage with your network through comments and messages.Experiment: Try different content formats—videos, text posts, articles, and polls—to see what resonates most with your audience.

Tip: Progress over perfection. Every post is a chance to learn and refine your approach.

Practical LinkedIn Playbook for 2025Engage strategically: Ring the bell on profiles of industry leaders and comment thoughtfully.Share your humanity: Post stories that show your personality and values, tied back to professional lessons.Tailor outreach: Personalize connection requests and direct messages to add value from the start.Leverage automation: Use tools wisely to scale your efforts without sacrificing authenticity.Stay consistent: Post regularly, review your analytics, and adapt your strategy.

LinkedIn in 2025 is all about balance. To rise above the noise, you need to embrace humanity, hone your strategy, and leverage automation without losing your personal touch. Treat LinkedIn like a coffee shop: start genuine conversations, build relationships, and create opportunities by showing up as your authentic self. Whether you’re a seasoned LinkedIn user or just starting out, these strategies will help you stand out and make a meaningful impact.

Remember, progress beats perfection. Show up, engage, and keep evolving. Your network is your net worth—invest in it.

#LinkedInTips #SocialSelling #PersonalBranding #SalesLeadership #ModernSelling #AuthenticityMatters #HumanConnection #LinkedInStrategy #NetworkingMastery

Master Your Career with a Walking Deck: Tips, Insights & Real-World Success from Carson Heady

Are you ready to elevate your professional brand and stand out in a competitive world? I’m sharing my Career Walking Deck—a tool that reshapes how professionals showcase their value.

Click here to access my personal deck:

https://www.linkedin.com/smart-links/AQH8hjerRKARzw

The walking deck isn’t just another presentation—it’s your career superpower, designed to help you articulate your achievements, passions, and potential.

Whether you’re seeking a new role, building relationships with mentors, or simply aligning your team, this deck is a game-changer.

Why You Need a Walking Deck

Stand Out in the Crowd: Resumes alone don’t cut it. A walking deck tells your story visually, helping you stand out with clarity and impact.

Build Stronger Connections: Whether it’s with a hiring manager, mentor, or colleague, the walking deck fosters meaningful, authentic conversations.

Showcase Tangible Results: Your value isn’t just in your title—it’s in the measurable outcomes you’ve driven. A walking deck helps you show them off confidently.

Be Prepared for Every Opportunity: Whether it’s a performance review, a mentorship meeting, or an interview, your walking deck ensures you’re ready to articulate your value.

How to Master the Walking Deck

Start with a Strong Opening:

Your first slide should grab attention. Include awards, roles, and an overview of your unique value. Make it visually appealing with tools like PowerPoint’s Copilot and Designer.

Make It Personal:

Dedicate a slide to who you are beyond work. Share your passions, hobbies, and meaningful experiences. This humanizes your story and builds trust.

Focus on Results:

Numbers speak louder than words! Include metrics that highlight your achievements. Whether it’s revenue growth, efficiency improvements, or project outcomes, let the data shine.

Add Perspectives:

Include testimonials or feedback from colleagues, mentors, or leaders. Their words can vouch for your impact and character.

Craft a Killer 30-60-90 Plan:

Even if you’re not applying for a role, this shows you’re strategic, thoughtful, and ready to hit the ground running in any opportunity.

Update Regularly:

Your career evolves—so should your deck! Keep it fresh with recent wins, experiences, and insights.

Use It Strategically:

Share it ahead of meetings or discussions to set the stage. Let the deck guide conversations toward your strengths and aspirations.

This is more than a tool; it’s a career revolution. If you’ve used a walking deck or have tips to share, drop them in the comments! Together, let’s help each other grow and thrive.

What would you add to your walking deck? What makes yours stand out?

#CareerGrowth #PersonalBranding #LeadershipDevelopment #Networking #SalesLeadership #JobSearchTips #ProfessionalDevelopment #SuccessMindset #CareerGoals

Unlock the Secret to Team Success: How to Pause, Let Go, and Unlock Deeper Wisdom

Unlocking Team Wisdom: Episode 64 of the Connected Teamwork Podcast with Hylke Faber and Carson Heady

In Episode 64 of the Connected Teamwork Podcast, Hylke Faber and Carson V. Heady explore the third practice in the team connectedness series: Pause, Let Go, and Welcome Deeper Wisdom.

This conversation delves deep into the intricacies of modern teamwork, offering both practical tools and philosophical insights that help leaders and teams thrive.

The Core Principle: Pause, Let Go, and Welcome Deeper Wisdom

At the heart of this episode is a simple yet profound idea: To unlock deeper levels of team intelligence, we must cultivate the ability to pause, release attachments, and create space for wisdom to emerge. This practice is not just about productivity or efficiency but about fostering authentic connections—with ourselves, our teams, and our shared purpose.

Hylke sets the stage by explaining why this principle follows the foundational practices of self-care and continuous growth. He emphasizes that letting go requires a baseline of physical and mental readiness. “Once we’ve taken care of ourselves,” Hylke notes, “we’re more prepared to pause and embrace the wisdom that arises from within.”

Why Pause Matters

Carson shares his perspective on the importance of pausing, describing it as “a balcony view”—a chance to step back and gain clarity. He illustrates this with examples from his own life, including moments of professional decision-making and personal growth. Without pausing, Carson explains, we risk being consumed by the minutiae and chaos of daily life, losing sight of the broader perspective.

Hylke builds on this, emphasizing that pausing isn’t about inactivity; it’s about creating the mental and emotional space to reset. He recounts her own practice of taking intentional breaks, even during busy days, to realign with her purpose.

The Power of Letting Go

The discussion then shifts to the concept of letting go. Hylke explains that our primary attachments often fall into three categories:

To ourselves (“I should feel or act a certain way”).To others (“They should appreciate or understand me”).To outcomes (“This project must succeed in a specific way”).

These attachments, he says, can limit our thinking and cloud our decision-making. Letting go doesn’t mean abandoning goals or relationships but rather releasing the rigid expectations that often accompany them. “When we let go,” Hylke observes, “we free our minds to focus on what is truly needed in the moment.”

Carson shares a personal anecdote about navigating professional pressures. By shifting his focus from rigid outcomes to broader intentions, he found greater clarity and effectiveness. “When you stop fixating on the end result,” he notes, “you open yourself to the steps and opportunities that lead you there.”

Welcoming Deeper Wisdom

The final component of the practice—welcoming wisdom—is perhaps the most transformative. Hylke underscores the importance of creating space for insights to emerge rather than forcing solutions. He compares this to receiving a gift: It requires patience, openness, and a willingness to trust the process.

Carson reflects on how this principle has shaped his leadership style. He highlights the role of curiosity and vulnerability in fostering authentic connections with his team. “When you’re honest about your own challenges and uncertainties,” he explains, “you create a safe space for others to do the same. That’s where real wisdom and collaboration happen.”

Practical Applications

Throughout the episode, both hosts provide actionable advice for incorporating these principles into daily life:

Pause regularly: Schedule moments of stillness into your day, even if it’s just a few minutes.Notice attachments: Reflect on where you’re holding on too tightly—to ideas, expectations, or outcomes.Shift to intention: Instead of focusing on what should happen, ask yourself what you can do to align with your values and purpose.Be curious: Approach challenges with an open mind and a willingness to learn.Honor your emotions: Recognize and accept your feelings without letting them dictate your actions.Attachments vs. Intentions

One of the most compelling parts of the episode is the distinction between attachments and intentions. Hylke and Carson explain that attachments are often tied to external outcomes, while intentions stem from internal values. By shifting from attachment to intention, we can approach challenges with greater clarity and resilience.

Carson shares a mantra that encapsulates this mindset: “Focus on people and processes, not quotas or goals.” By prioritizing relationships and systems, he has consistently achieved success without becoming consumed by external pressures.

The Broader Implications

The insights from this episode extend beyond the workplace. Hylke’s reflections on letting go of stress and Carson’s anecdotes about family dynamics demonstrate how these principles can transform personal relationships as well.

Hylke encourages listeners to view life as a continuous process of tuning and re-tuning. “It’s not about never being out of tune,” he says, “but about recognizing when you are and making the choice to adjust.”

Final Reflections

As the episode concludes, Hylke and Carson invite listeners to reflect on their own attachments and intentions. They emphasize that the journey toward connectedness is ongoing and deeply personal. By practicing pause, letting go, and welcoming wisdom, we can unlock not only our own potential but also the collective intelligence of our teams.

In Carson’s words, “The impact we leave on others—how we make them feel, how we inspire them—is the true measure of success.”

Join the Conversation What attachments are you ready to let go of? How can you align more deeply with your intentions? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more transformative insights from the Connected Teamwork Podcast.

#Teamwork #LeadershipDevelopment #MindfulnessAtWork #PersonalGrowth #IntentionalLeadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #WorkplaceWellbeing #GrowthMindset

AI in sales: Predictions for 2025! Practical tools, smarter SDRs and bold tips for success

2025 is here, and the sales landscape is evolving faster than ever. Are you ready to master the convergence of AI and human connection to dominate sales in 2025?

AI is no longer just a buzzword—it’s transforming how we sell, from smarter tools to deeper human connections. The sellers who embrace this shift and balance technology with authenticity will be the ones who thrive.

Sales VP and author Jeff Kirchick and I just wrapped up our annual deep dive into sales predictions, and this year’s discussion was one of the most exciting yet.

As we usher in 2025, it’s clear that AI will continue to shape our industry—but not in the way you might think.

Here’s what we’re seeing:

The shift from “sexy” AI to practical AI.

Gone are the days when AI was just about flashy personalization or automating cold emails. The real power lies in tools that improve internal operations—real-time call analysis, deal risk identification, and coaching frameworks that help sellers make better decisions based on historical data.

The evolution of the SDR.

AI isn’t replacing sales reps—it’s making them smarter. The best SDRs will use AI to connect the dots between buyers and sellers, crafting meaningful, tailored conversations at scale.

The return of the human touch.

With AI-generated emails flooding inboxes, the value of authentic, face-to-face interactions is skyrocketing. Personalized video outreach, cold calls, and genuine relationship-building are more important than ever.

Setting the table for a great year.

As I always say: Before you feast, you’ve got to set the table. Now is the time to analyze last year’s wins, optimize your approach, and map out the key relationships you need to build for success in 2025.

Key Takeaways:

1⃣ Don’t chase shiny objects—focus on solving real business problems.

2⃣ Use AI to enhance your work, but lean into what makes you human.

3⃣ Build more pipeline than you think you’ll need. There’s no such thing as too much.

As we start Q1, I’m laser-focused on combining the best of AI and the timeless fundamentals of selling. The sellers who master this convergence will win big this year.

What are your predictions for 2025? How do you plan to integrate AI into your strategy—or stand out in a sea of automation? Let’s talk in the comments!

#SalesLeadership #AIinSales #SalesTrends2025 #AuthenticSelling #PracticalAI #SalesSuccess

The Vehicle Analogy: How Relationships and Careers Follow the Rules of the Road

“It’s not the years, honey, it’s the mileage.” Indiana Jones, Raiders of the Lost ArkLife as a Highway: Navigating Relationships, Careers, and Personal Growth with the Vehicle Analogy

As I read an article comparing vehicles to relationships a few weeks ago, it sparked a cascade of thoughts about how this analogy could be applied to nearly every aspect of life—careers, marriage, personal growth, and beyond.

It’s clever, provocative, and deeply insightful when you take a moment to truly connect the dots. Here’s what I unpacked and how these lessons can steer us toward a better 2025.

1. Mileage Matters: Wear, Tear, and Repair

Like cars, relationships and careers accumulate wear and tear over time. Neglect can lead to breakdowns, but consistent maintenance—think tune-ups for your marriage, recalibration at work, and self-care—is essential for longevity.

Practical Advice:

Identify “red flags”: Burnout at work? Strains in relationships? Take immediate action.Schedule regular “check-ins” with your partner, team, or even yourself. Acknowledge what’s working and what’s not.Learn new “muscles” for relationships. For me, dropping the “bad boy” persona and leaning into empathy transformed my marriage.

Key Insight: Relationships, like cars, need visible repair. Both parties must actively participate in rebuilding after a rift, or the cracks will only widen.

2. The Right Vehicle for the Right Season

You wouldn’t drive a sports car through a snowstorm, and you wouldn’t navigate family life with the mindset of your single-party days. Life stages require different “vehicles”—adaptation is key.

Practical Advice:

Reassess your relationships: Do the people in your circle align with your current priorities?Embrace change: My wife and I quit alcohol months ago to focus on health and our marriage. It’s reshaped who and what we gravitate toward.

Key Insight: Relationships, like vehicles, evolve. What served you in one season may not in the next. Learn to let go gracefully.

3. Fuel Determines Performance

High-performance vehicles demand premium fuel. Similarly, your body, mind, and relationships thrive on quality input.

Practical Advice:

Audit your “fuel”: Are you nourishing yourself with good food, exercise, and mental health practices?Invest in personal growth: Read books, attend workshops, and learn new skills—especially relational ones, like listening without judgment or attuning to your partner’s needs.

Key Insight: The wrong fuel—be it unhealthy habits, toxic relationships, or negativity—causes inefficiency and damage. Prioritize what energizes you.

4. Breakdowns, Roadblocks, and Resilience

Flat tires, collisions, and unexpected detours are inevitable in life. Job loss, relationship struggles, or personal setbacks can feel like hitting a wall, but resilience keeps you moving forward.

Practical Advice:

When life throws a curveball, pause, diagnose, and repair. Ignoring the problem only worsens the damage.Embrace detours. A career pivot, a failed relationship, or an unexpected life change can lead to growth opportunities you didn’t see coming.

Key Insight: Perseverance is your ultimate tool. Champions aren’t those who avoid challenges—they’re the ones who stay standing when the bell rings.

5. Upgrades and Garage Time

Just as cars benefit from upgrades, so do we. Whether it’s adopting new habits, learning skills, or deepening relationships, growth is a constant. But don’t overlook the value of rest.

Practical Advice:

Take stock of your life: Which areas—career, relationships, health—need an upgrade?Schedule “garage time”: Rest, reflect, and realign. Solitude, prayer, or meditation can bring clarity.

Key Insight: Balance growth with recovery. A car that’s always running without downtime will eventually overheat.

6. Trade-Ins and New Beginnings

Letting go of relationships or roles that no longer serve you can be tough. It’s natural to feel nostalgic, but clinging to the past hinders progress.

Practical Advice:

Celebrate the old, embrace the new: Reflect on what past relationships or roles taught you and how new ones enrich you.Focus forward: Whether it’s a mentor, a new job, or a personal goal, channel your energy into what’s next.

Key Insight: Growth requires space. Sometimes, you need to trade in the familiar to embrace the extraordinary.

7. You’re the Driver

Ultimately, you’re in control. The decisions you make—where to steer, what to prioritize, and when to brake—shape your destination.

Practical Advice:

Use your faith or values as a GPS. They provide clarity when the road ahead is unclear.Relish the journey: Life isn’t just about reaching the destination. The detours, pit stops, and scenic routes are what make the trip worthwhile.

Key Insight: Ownership is empowering. Steering your life with intention and purpose ensures you’re heading where you truly want to go.

2025: Your Year of Mastery

As I approach 2025, I’m focusing on mastering relationships, career growth, and personal health. My challenge to you: What will you prioritize this year? How will you nurture your relationships, upgrade yourself, and navigate life’s twists and turns?

Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear about your goals and how I can support you.

#LeadershipDevelopment #RelationshipMastery #CareerGrowth #PersonalTransformation #Resilience #LifeLessons #FaithAndFocus #ContinuousImprovement #SuccessMindset

When ‘No’ Becomes Your Greatest Weapon: Unstoppable Sales Tactics to Defy All Odds

“Beyond the No: The Art of Turning Obstacles into Opportunity”

The decisions I have made as a seller have not always been easy. I’ve faced criticism, resistance, and outright rejection—even from C-level executives and IT personnel. There were moments when procurement teams were upset because I chose to forge relationships with business decision-makers.

But here’s the truth: If there’s no momentum or prospects for meaningful progress, what do you risk by working to create some?

The risk, of course, is your comfort.

I’ve had uncomfortable conversations. I’ve been in rooms where my persistence was questioned and my methods criticized. I’ve even had a CIO refuse a meeting, only to have the CEO, CFO, and Treasurer force him to take it after my diligent prospecting and relationship-building.

That CIO stood in front of my executive leadership and his team and dressed me down for what he called “fruitless persistence.” Yet, I don’t regret a single moment. Why? Because even in the face of hostility, I landed that deal.

Persistence Turns “No” into Opportunity

Once upon a time, I pursued a customer executive who outright refused to meet with me. Using my network, I connected with Board members, the CEO, and the CFO. Together with an internal dream team and a vendor partner, I demonstrated what we could achieve for their organization. That same executive who initially refused to meet—and publicly disparaged my persistence—eventually gave me multiple projects. We delivered exactly what they needed and won their business.

The lesson? “No” or silence is only final if you let it be. Every rejection is an invitation to find another way.

The Courage to Be Unliked

Sales is not about being everyone’s favorite. It’s about being an advocate for your customer’s success. Sometimes, that means being seen as the villain to certain stakeholders while pushing for solutions that benefit the whole organization.

That CIO notoriously hated vendors and refused to return my calls. Using LinkedIn and internal resources, I bypassed his resistance, connecting with other leaders in his organization.

Ultimately, I realized he was more concerned with proving himself than collaborating with vendors. By pivoting and involving a trusted third-party reseller, I helped his team win without forcing him to directly collaborate with me. The deal closed because I removed myself as the obstacle.

The Holy Sales Trinity

Success in sales comes when all parties leave the table feeling victorious:

The customer gains value, solves a problem, or achieves ROI.The company makes a profit, earns goodwill, and builds market presence.The seller grows, whether through commission, experience, or reputation.

Some sellers fail by focusing only on their quota or bending over backwards to please the customer at the company’s expense. True success lies in finding balance—where all three sides win.

The Power of a Team

No one closes deals alone. One of my most important lessons has been to rally the right people around opportunities. Internal allies, external vendors, and partners who share your vision can amplify your impact. When I brought in my division GM and assembled a team of experts to address a customer’s concerns, we didn’t win the deal in that room—but we built the credibility and momentum that eventually led to success.

Ego is the Enemy

I’ve learned that success isn’t about being the smartest person in the room. It’s about creating an environment where others feel valued and empowered. By stepping back, I’ve helped others take the lead, and in turn, they’ve helped me win in ways I never could have on my own.

As sellers, we must ask ourselves: Are we seeking personal validation, or are we truly serving our customers, our companies, and our teams? When we put ego aside, we open the door to greater collaboration, innovation, and success.

A Final Thought

Persistence is not about brute force; it’s about finding creative, strategic paths forward. It’s about listening to the unspoken needs of your customers, building bridges, and being unafraid of discomfort. Some of the most meaningful wins of my career came from enduring rejection, criticism, and doubt—and refusing to accept “no” as the final answer.

If you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the risk of rejection, you’ll discover that even the toughest obstacles can become stepping stones to success.

#PersistencePays #BeyondNo #NeverAcceptNo #TurningNosIntoYes #StrategicPersistence #OvercomeObstacles #PersistenceWins #SuccessBeyondNo #NoIsNotFinal

10 Game-Changing Tips for Success in 2025: Master Your Strengths, Build Trust, and Turn Challenges Into Opportunities

What if the key to your greatest success in 2025 isn’t about working harder—but mastering your unique strengths, building unshakable trust, and turning challenges into opportunities? My 10 Tips for Success in 2025:

What does it take to succeed in a world that constantly challenges you?

The show must go on in 2025, no matter how you fared last year. Resilience, innovation, and a focus on what truly matters are the keys to thriving in 2025.

Here are my top tips, forged through experience and inspired by the lessons I’ve learned in 24 years of sales and sales leadership:

Embrace Your Superpowers

Lean into what makes you unique. Focus on your strengths—they are your greatest assets in delivering value to your team and customers.

Never Settle for Average

Good is not enough. Dare to push beyond what others think is possible, and you’ll discover extraordinary opportunities.

Be Data-Driven

Numbers tell a story—listen to them. Consistent execution, paired with data insights, is your ticket to sustained success. Data helps diagnose. Don’t react because of data, but perfect your process based on where the data points you.

Master Your Schedule

Discipline your time. Start your day with purpose and protect the moments that fuel your energy and creativity.

Leverage Social Selling

Relationships matter. Platforms like LinkedIn aren’t just for networking—they’re game-changers for building trust and landing deals. Whether you are looking to learn, build relationships with potential hiring managers, or prospect, you’re in the right place.

Understand Customer Risk

Decisions are driven by the fear of failure, not just FOMO. Help your customers feel secure, and you’ll win their trust.

Build a Personal Brand

Your reputation is your currency. Cultivate it by showing up authentically and sharing your value with the world.

Communicate Transparently

Clarity builds confidence. Keep your customers informed and aligned to foster stronger partnerships.

Lead with Value, Not Products

It’s not about selling—it’s about solving. Focus on how you can empower your customers to achieve their mission.

Turn Challenges into Opportunities

Every obstacle hides an opportunity. Find it, and you’ll create lasting impact for your team and customers.

What’s your superpower, and how are you using it to make 2025 your best year yet?

#TheShowMustGoOn #SalesLeadership #CustomerValue #PersonalBranding #SocialSelling #Resilience #DataDriven #TimeManagement #GrowthMindset

10 Game-Changing Tips for Success in 2025: Master Your Strengths, Build Trust, and Turn Challenges Into Opportunities

What if the key to your greatest success in 2025 isn’t about working harder—but mastering your unique strengths, building unshakable trust, and turning challenges into opportunities? My 10 Tips for Success in 2025:

What does it take to succeed in a world that constantly challenges you?

The show must go on in 2025, no matter how you fared last year. Resilience, innovation, and a focus on what truly matters are the keys to thriving in 2025.

Here are my top tips, forged through experience and inspired by the lessons I’ve learned in 24 years of sales and sales leadership:

Embrace Your Superpowers

Lean into what makes you unique. Focus on your strengths—they are your greatest assets in delivering value to your team and customers.

Never Settle for Average

Good is not enough. Dare to push beyond what others think is possible, and you’ll discover extraordinary opportunities.

Be Data-Driven

Numbers tell a story—listen to them. Consistent execution, paired with data insights, is your ticket to sustained success. Data helps diagnose. Don’t react because of data, but perfect your process based on where the data points you.

Master Your Schedule

Discipline your time. Start your day with purpose and protect the moments that fuel your energy and creativity.

Leverage Social Selling

Relationships matter. Platforms like LinkedIn aren’t just for networking—they’re game-changers for building trust and landing deals. Whether you are looking to learn, build relationships with potential hiring managers, or prospect, you’re in the right place.

Understand Customer Risk

Decisions are driven by the fear of failure, not just FOMO. Help your customers feel secure, and you’ll win their trust.

Build a Personal Brand

Your reputation is your currency. Cultivate it by showing up authentically and sharing your value with the world.

Communicate Transparently

Clarity builds confidence. Keep your customers informed and aligned to foster stronger partnerships.

Lead with Value, Not Products

It’s not about selling—it’s about solving. Focus on how you can empower your customers to achieve their mission.

Turn Challenges into Opportunities

Every obstacle hides an opportunity. Find it, and you’ll create lasting impact for your team and customers.

What’s your superpower, and how are you using it to make 2025 your best year yet?

#TheShowMustGoOn #SalesLeadership #CustomerValue #PersonalBranding #SocialSelling #Resilience #DataDriven #TimeManagement #GrowthMindset

How Checking My Ego Saved My Career and Redefined Success

The Biggest Mistake I Ever Made Was Believing My Own Hype

For much of my career, I found myself chasing the kind of success that sparkled on the surface but ultimately left me vulnerable to a hard fall. From ages 25 to 32, I became intoxicated by my rising star. My results were unbeatable, my name frequently praised by peers and leadership alike. I won every contest and was #1 every month, quarter and year.

I thought I had it all figured out.

Looking back now, I see the trap I fell into: I believed my own hype.

A Star Burning Too Bright

It was a period of my life where the accolades came easily. I skated by on results, convinced that numbers were the only thing that mattered. My work ethic and natural abilities allowed me to run circles around my colleagues, but I was uncoachable, ungrounded, and, ultimately, unsustainable.

Nobody taught that kid how to play the game, how to build consensus, how to win the crowd, I often reflect now. At the time, I thought I didn’t need anyone to teach me. I was flying high on my own. Unfortunately, I became “friends” with people who worked for me. They convinced me we were family. It felt good to believe that — until the tides turned.

The Fall and the Lessons That Followed

The first cracks in my foundation came from unemployment—twice. These weren’t mere career hiccups; they were gut-wrenching, soul-searching periods of my life. My so-called “friends” disappeared when the accolades stopped. I was told I was a loser. I was alone. For the first time, I felt the full weight of my decisions, my ego, and my lack of preparedness for real adversity.

These moments forced me to confront the person I had become. With no mentor to guide me, I had to dig deep and claw my way back. I relied on grit and resilience to redefine what success meant to me. I realized the importance of humility, self-awareness, and, most importantly, the value of building genuine relationships rather than superficial alliances.

The Power of Humility and Mentorship

One of the greatest tragedies of those early years was the absence of mentorship. Nobody was there to give me a reality check or the kick in the rear I desperately needed. Now, as a leader and mentor myself, I see how vital it is to guide others before they reach a breaking point. I’ve made it my mission to invest in the people around me, to offer them the wisdom and accountability I lacked.

Humility didn’t come naturally. It was forged in the fire of those painful experiences. But it’s a lesson I carry with me every single day. As I rebuilt my career, I discovered the incredible strength in admitting what I don’t know and seeking help from others. That vulnerability became my superpower.

Living the Dream at 46

Fast forward to today. At 46, I’m finally living my dream. I wake up every morning with gratitude for the blessings in my life and the fruit of my labor. I get to do what I love: learning from others, serving, giving, and contributing while still achieving success. But now, that success feels richer because it’s built on authenticity, collaboration, and resilience.

Every win today is sweeter because it’s not just about me. It’s about the people I work with, the lives I touch, and the lessons I’ve learned. I’m a better leader, a better colleague, and a better human being because I never gave up.

The Takeaways

Stay grounded: Success is fleeting if you let it go to your head. True growth comes from humility. Be grateful: Every challenge is a stepping stone to becoming the person you’re meant to be. Invest in others: Be the mentor you wish you had. Resilience wins: No matter how low you fall, you can rise again with determination. Redefine success: It’s not just about results; it’s about the journey, the people, and the impact you make.

I thank God every day for the second chances, for the humbling experiences that shaped me, and for the opportunity to keep growing. My journey is a testament to the power of never giving up, of owning your mistakes, and of constantly striving to become the best version of yourself.

If you’re reading this and feel stuck, know this: It’s never too late to turn things around. The biggest mistake you can make is not learning from your past. Keep chasing your potential, but don’t lose sight of the people and lessons that will truly shape your legacy.

#LeadershipLessons #GrowthMindset #CareerDevelopment #OvercomingAdversity #SelfAwareness #PersonalGrowth #MentorshipMatters #Resilience #NeverGiveUp

The Books That Defined My 2024 Journey

Reading brings me immense joy; so much so that I typically have a paperback, Kindle, and Audible book all going at once. This year, I devoured 44 books—each with its unique flavor and impact—but a handful left indelible marks on my heart and mind. Here are the ones that resonated most deeply with me:

“Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins

David Goggins’ journey from an overweight, bullied kid to a Navy SEAL and ultramarathon runner is nothing short of astonishing. His mantra, “Stay hard,” and the concept of the “40% rule”—that most people stop at 40% of their true potential—challenged me to push beyond my perceived limits. I vividly remember listening to Goggins’ audiobook while running, feeling unstoppable as his words fueled my pace.

“Atomic Habits” by James Clear

This modern classic on habit formation provided a roadmap for change. The idea that “small habits compound over time” transformed how I approach personal growth. Clear’s advice on “identity-based habits”—focusing on becoming the kind of person who does certain things rather than merely achieving goals—was a game-changer.

“Solve for Happy” by Mo Gawdat

Gawdat’s equation for happiness (“Happiness ≥ Your perception of the events of your life − Your expectations of how life should behave”) is deceptively simple yet profoundly life-altering. After reading this, I found myself more mindful of my expectations and reframed challenges as opportunities for gratitude.

“Factfulness” by Hans Rosling

“The world isn’t as bad as we think,” Rosling declares, and he backs it up with enlightening data. This book dismantled my pessimistic assumptions and instilled a sense of optimism grounded in facts. It’s a powerful reminder of the progress humanity has made and a nudge to view the world through a lens of curiosity rather than fear.

“Churchill on Leadership” by Steven F. Hayward

Winston Churchill’s resilience, wit, and ability to inspire during Britain’s darkest hours are timeless lessons in leadership. One quote that stuck with me: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” This book reinforced the importance of courage and conviction in times of uncertainty.

“Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

Willink and Babin’s principles of taking total responsibility for everything within your sphere of influence revolutionized how I view accountability. Their stories from the battlefield translate seamlessly into lessons for leadership and life.

“First, Break All the Rules” by Marcus Buckingham

The central premise—that great managers focus on individuals’ strengths rather than weaknesses—challenged traditional management paradigms. This book inspired me to rethink my approach to leadership, focusing on what people do well rather than what they need to fix.

“The Score Takes Care of Itself” by Bill Walsh

Bill Walsh’s philosophy on leadership and standards of performance is a masterclass in striving for excellence. His belief in setting a “Standard of Performance” resonates deeply. It’s not about winning every time but about creating a culture of excellence where success becomes inevitable. As a lifelong San Francisco 49ers fan, this book was a fun read.

“Sober on a Drunk Planet: Stoic Sobriety” by Sean Alexander

As someone on a sobriety journey, this book hit home. Alexander’s blend of stoic philosophy and practical advice felt like a lifeline. A favorite takeaway: “Sobriety isn’t about giving something up; it’s about gaining everything.” My wife and I gave up alcohol in September.

“Lead Like Jesus” by Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges

This book is a call to servant leadership. By exploring Jesus’ example of humility and service, it’s a refreshing take on leading with purpose and compassion. It’s one of those books that stays with you, urging you to lead not just with your head but with your heart.

“The Greatest Salesman in the World” by Og Mandino

Mandino’s scrolls—principles for living a successful and meaningful life—are timeless. Each page is filled with wisdom, but the idea of persistence stood out most: “I will persist until I succeed.” It’s a mantra that continues to guide me in both personal and professional pursuits.

“Raising Daughters Who Like Themselves” by Kasey Edwards and Christopher Scanlon

As a parent of daughters, this book resonated on a deeply personal level. It’s a guide to fostering resilience, confidence, and self-love in young women. The actionable advice has already impacted how I approach conversations with my daughters, ensuring they grow up believing in their worth. Thankful to my wife for recommending this one as we work to be the best parents we can be to our 3 daughters.

“Your Next Five Moves” by Patrick Bet-David

Bet-David’s approach to strategic thinking—planning five moves ahead like a chess grandmaster—is brilliant. This book taught me to think long-term and align my decisions with my overarching goals, a skill that has already borne fruit this year.

Reading isn’t just a hobby; it’s a journey of transformation. These books—with their wisdom, challenges, and inspiration—have not only expanded my mind but also enriched my life. As we close the chapter on 2024, I’m curious: What books resonated most deeply with you this year?

Super grateful for book recommendations I got this year from Paul Shoberg, Scott Kildebeck, Richard Vickers, Ivan Tornos, John Roosa, Mark Hunter, Tyler Bryson, Mitchel Howell, Danny Vogt, Paul Reitz, Arturo Diaz, Chris Schraf and Jerry Carlson plus my bride Amy Heady.

#ReadersOf2024 #LeadershipLessons #SelfGrowth #HabitBuilding #InspirationalReads #ParentingWisdom #SobrietyJourney #PersonalDevelopment #BookLoversUnite