Carson V. Heady's Blog, page 17

From Waiter to Wunderkind: How I Took a Chance Recruiting My Next Star

For me, taking chances on people has always been second nature. I’ve spent years in sales management, and while many of the people I’ve worked with have blurred together, a few stand out in my memory. One of those individuals is a waiter I met on a Friday evening, August 17, 2007.

My now wife and I had gone out for dinner, and “Ryan” happened to be our server. He had a natural charm — personable, attentive, and genuine. When the meal was over, I left my business card in the check envelope with a note on the back:

“Ryan: Thank you for your exemplary service tonight! I’ve never done this before, but your personality and character are unique. I manage an advertising sales call center where someone like you could make a lot of money. No pressure at all, but if you’d like to just discuss it, let me know. Sincerely, Carson V. Heady.”

I’d seen plenty of people succeed and fail in sales. It’s not an easy path, and not everyone is cut out for it. But there was something about Ryan that struck me. He had an energy that couldn’t be taught. I felt compelled to give him an opportunity, even though I rarely reached out to recruit people for this job.

A week later, Ryan called me. We talked for a while, and I could tell he was hesitant. “Sales wasn’t really my plan,” he admitted. “I’ve been saving up to go to nursing school.”

“Ryan, everything in life is selling,” I told him. “Whether you’re convincing someone to buy a product, or persuading a patient to follow a treatment plan, the same principles apply. You’ve got the natural skills for this. If I can offer you a stepping stone to something better, I’ll feel I’ve done my job. But there’s no pressure.”

To my surprise, he decided to take the leap. On September 4, Ryan started his first day in my call center. I remember him walking into the office, surrounded by seasoned salespeople with their flashy suits and polished confidence. It can be an intimidating environment, and I’ll admit I wondered how he’d fare.

Ryan’s first few months were a mixed bag. He wasn’t loud or flashy like some of the others, but he had a quiet determination. By December, he hit his sales target, which was no small feat. What I admired most about him was his empathy for our customers. Many of them were small business owners trying to make ends meet, and Ryan genuinely cared about helping them succeed.

The job, though, was relentless. Dialing hundreds of numbers a day, dealing with voicemails and gatekeepers — it’s not for everyone. Ryan came to my office twice, ready to quit. Each time, we had a heart-to-heart.

“Ryan, if this isn’t for you, I completely understand,” I told him during one of those conversations.

“But you believed in me,” he said, his voice breaking. “You gave me this chance, and I feel like I’m letting you down.”

“Stop,” I said, leaning forward. “You’re a human being. So am I — until proven otherwise.” That got a smile out of him. “This job is tough. But you’ve done better here than most people I’ve seen. Whether you stay or go, I’m proud of you for giving it your best.”

Ryan stayed for a while longer, but eventually, he moved on. His last day was January 20, 2009. By then, he’d earned enough to start nursing school and even pay for his honeymoon. I’ve followed his journey through social media, and it’s clear he’s thriving.

Looking back, I’m glad I took a chance on Ryan. That’s the part of my job I love most: seeing potential in someone and giving them an opportunity to grow. Ryan didn’t stay in sales, but the resilience and skills he gained during his time in my call center set him on a path to success.

Ryan often says I changed his life, but the truth is, he changed mine too. Helping someone realize their potential is one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have. For that, I’ll always remember Ryan fondly.

Here’s what I learned from this experience:

Recognize and Act on Potential: See untapped potential and act on it. Look for opportunities to help others grow and succeed, whether in personal or professional settings. A small act of encouragement can make a big impact.Take Risks to Grow: Ryan took a leap of faith by stepping into an unfamiliar sales role, which ultimately opened doors for him. Embrace opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone, as they can lead to unexpected growth and success.Empathy Creates Connection: Ryan’s genuine care for his customers set him apart. In any role, understanding and addressing the needs of others fosters trust and builds stronger relationships.Resilience in Challenging Times: The sales role was relentless and demanding, but Ryan’s perseverance helped him develop valuable skills. Face challenges head-on and use them as opportunities to build resilience and confidence.Focus on Skills That Translate: Ryan discovered that sales skills like communication, persuasion, and relationship-building are applicable across various careers. Develop versatile skills that can serve you in multiple areas of life.Leaders Should Offer Genuine Support: My team and I did everything we could to create a positive environment for Ryan, even when he struggled. Leaders should prioritize empathy and invest in their team members’ growth.Pursue What Aligns with Your Values: Ryan’s experience in sales helped him fund his true passion: nursing. Use stepping stones in your career to move toward your ultimate goals.The Power of Mentorship: I worked diligently to instill Ryan with clarity and confidence. Seek out mentors who can offer honest advice, and strive to be a mentor to others when you are in a position to do so.Find Fulfillment in Helping Others Succeed: Seeing Ryan’s success was a reward in itself. Helping others grow can be one of the most fulfilling parts of any career.

These lessons underscore the importance of taking risks, supporting others, and staying true to your long-term goals, all while learning and growing from every experience.

#CareerDevelopment #Leadership #ProfessionalGrowth #PersonalDevelopment #Success #Motivation #Innovation #Management #Entrepreneurship

How Skipping 2nd Grade Changed My Life: Lessons in Growth, Challenges, and Potential

Even as a kid, my curiosity and drive set me apart. I talked a lot for my age. Some people found it endearing; others, maybe less so. But I couldn’t help it. My mind was always racing, filled with questions and ideas.

I’ve always been eager to show what I could do, even if it meant pushing boundaries. As an only child in a small town, I felt this unrelenting drive to explore, learn, and understand.

A news crew once came to visit me at school. I wasn’t shy. I loved sharing what I knew.

Things came easily for me for a long time–until they didn’t. But that’s another story.

My 2nd grade principal proposed to my parents that I skip the grade, which I did in September 1986, significantly impacting the rest of my life.

Over the years, I often thought about that decision. What if I’d stayed in second grade? Would I still have found ways to excel, or would I have grown frustrated and disengaged? I’ll never know for sure, but I do know this: my parents and principal saw potential in me and acted on it, even when it meant stepping outside the norm.

Looking back, I’m grateful for his belief in me and for my parents’ willingness to embrace the unconventional. It’s a lesson I carry with me to this day: sometimes, the best path forward is the one that challenges you the most. And when someone believes in you, it can make all the difference in the world.

Embrace the Unconventional When Necessary

Sometimes, the best decisions require stepping outside the norm. Whether it’s skipping a grade or pursuing a career path others might not understand, embracing unconventional choices can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Recognize and Act on Potential

Great leaders have the vision to identify potential in others and the courage to act on it. Recognizing someone’s talents and providing opportunities for them to grow can change lives.

Challenge Yourself to Grow

Growth often lies just beyond the edge of your comfort zone. Taking on challenges, like joining a higher grade or stepping into a new role, helps you learn, adapt, and unlock new levels of potential.

Support from Others is Transformational

Having people who believe in you—whether they’re parents, mentors, or leaders—can make a world of difference. Their support helps you navigate uncertainty and take bold steps toward your goals.

Celebrate What Makes You Unique

Everyone has unique strengths and talents. Instead of trying to conform, focus on what sets you apart and let it shine. Recognizing and celebrating these differences can open doors to greater opportunities.

What about you? What life-changing events helped shape who you are today? I’d love to hear your stories and reflections.

#Leadership #PersonalDevelopment #CareerGrowth #Innovation #Management #Motivation #Success #ProfessionalDevelopment #Inspiration

From Believing My Own Hype to Humble: How Hitting Rock Bottom Transformed My Life and Career

The biggest mistake I ever made was believing my own hype. From 25-32, I became disillusioned by my rising star and the people who praised me, and I skated by on unbeatable results only to head towards a certain fall.

I had no mentor to pull me aside and give me a reality check or a kick in the rear end. Unfortunately, I became “friends” with people who worked for me and convinced me we were family. The high made me uncoachable because I ran circles around everyone I worked with.

Nobody taught that kid how to play the game, how to build consensus, how to win the crowd. Thankfully, I was mercilessly humbled by two unforeseen bouts with unemployment and had to scratch and claw alone back to the top.

My “friends” were nowhere to be found. I was told I was a loser. I was alone. But I never, ever quit or relented in my chase for my potential.

I thank God every day for my blessings, for the fruit of my labor and that I didn’t make even more of a mess of my life and career. At 46 years old, I’m finally 100% living my dream – getting to do what I love to do, learning from others, serving, giving, contributing and STILL winning.

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

The Raw Truth of Being the Best: What It Really Takes to Rise Above Challenges and Achieve Greatness

Do you have what it takes to be “the best?” Being the best isn’t what most people imagine. It’s not just a pinnacle of success, applause, and accolades—it’s a battleground.

How do you rise above when the challenges stack up, and the doubters grow louder?

The truth about being the best is raw, unfiltered, and demanding. Here’s what separates the great from the mediocre:

Haters Are a Badge of Honor

Success breeds envy. People will find reasons to criticize or tear you down. Instead of letting it weaken you, wear it as proof of your impact.

Sacrifice Fuels Excellence

Late nights, missed weekends, and the emotional toll of constant pressure—being at the top requires choices others won’t make. But remember, success doesn’t mean sacrificing relationships or well-being. Balance is key.

Be a Lifelong Student

Growth stops when learning stops. Seek mentors, learn from the best, and emulate what works. Excellence comes from relentless improvement.

Resilience is the Real Superpower

Setbacks aren’t obstacles—they’re fuel. Lose a deal? Miss a goal? Use it as a springboard. Success isn’t about never falling; it’s about getting back up stronger every time.

Perfect the Process, Not Just the Outcome

Winning isn’t luck—it’s execution. Master the fundamentals, focus on consistency, and let results take care of themselves.

Your Best is Yet to Come

The best never settle. They stay optimistic, push boundaries, and believe the next chapter holds even greater opportunities.

Practical Steps You Can Take NOW:

Reflect: What’s one area where you’re holding back? Face it head-on.

Learn: Who’s excelling where you’re struggling? Study them.

Act: Focus on what you can control and execute relentlessly.

The path to being the best is tough, but the rewards are unparalleled. You’ll not only achieve greatness but also inspire others to raise their game.

What’s one way you’ve risen above challenges or embraced growth recently? Let’s learn from each other!

(includes excerpt from my new book, “The Show Must Go On” – get your copy here! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DLBGCS6V/ref=tsm_1_fb_lk )

#Leadership #SuccessMindset #GrowthJourney #Resilience #LearnFromTheBest #FocusAndDiscipline #NeverSettle #RelentlessPursuit #ExcellenceEveryDay

The Three Attributes of a Modern Seller: Are You One of Them?

Mastering Modern Selling Episode #113: The Three Attributes of a Modern Seller: Are You One of Them? with Amy Franko

The role of the modern seller has evolved into a unique blend of value creation, consultative engagement, and strategic foresight.

What separates a successful modern seller from the rest? It boils down to three defining attributes:

They bring undeniable value. A modern seller is inseparable from the value they provide. Their product or service is amplified by their expertise, trustworthiness, and insight. Clients and prospects view them as an integral part of the solution, not just a representative of the brand.

They are a competitive advantage. Modern sellers improve their clients’ businesses, helping them gain a competitive edge. They’re not merely salespeople; they’re trusted partners in driving success and innovation for the organizations they serve.

They give trusted advice. Being consultative is at the heart of modern selling. These professionals ask tough questions, challenge the status quo, and provide thoughtful, actionable advice. They lean into hard conversations to guide their clients toward better outcomes.

Sales & Growth Strategist Amy Franko joins Tom Burton, Brandon Lee and Carson V. Heady on the latest episode of Mastering Modern Selling to discuss.

Bridging the Strategy Gap

While modern sellers are crucial, even high-performing organizations often stumble without a clear sales strategy. Surprisingly, many companies lack a formalized sales approach, leaving them without a “North Star” to guide their teams.

Here’s the reality:

Missing strategy: Organizations often succeed “in spite of themselves” but need clear, prioritized goals to reach the next level.Focusing on the vital few: With countless potential strategies, the key is zeroing in on the initiatives that deliver the greatest impact.Execution and accountability: Strategy without follow-through is just a wish. Leadership needs to own workstreams and create mechanisms to keep initiatives on track.Implementation: The Missing Piece

Organizations excel at brainstorming but often struggle with execution. Amy, a leader in sales strategy consulting, shares two tips to address this:

Outside perspective: Bringing in external expertise provides clarity. As the saying goes, “You can’t see the label from the inside of the jar.”Ownership and accountability: Assign clear leaders to drive specific workstreams, such as lead generation or market intelligence.Building Trust Before the First Conversation

Trust begins before you even speak with a prospect. Proactive visibility in the marketplace—via LinkedIn posts, webinars, or live shows—positions sellers as experts before any interaction. Whether through content creation or meaningful introductions, modern sellers focus on earning conversations, not demanding them.

AI: Efficiency and Effectiveness in Sales

AI is revolutionizing sales strategy, but the best sellers use it to enhance relationships, not replace them. AI tools can:

Identify industry trends to inform client discussions.Streamline research to tailor outreach.Generate data-rich insights to guide prospecting efforts.

The key? Balance AI’s speed and scalability with human authenticity and strategic thinking.

Sales and Marketing: Better Together

For true demand generation, sales and marketing must integrate. When CEOs foster alignment and use tools like CRMs to track shared goals, organizations thrive. Success isn’t about silos—it’s about collaboration.

Are you a modern seller, or are you aspiring to become one? Let’s hear your thoughts!

#SalesStrategy #ModernSelling #TrustedAdvisor #SalesLeadership #CustomerCentricity #SalesAndMarketing #AIInSales #B2BSales #ValueCreation

My Dream Interview and Timeless Lessons from ‘Cocktail’ and Coughlin’s Laws

Dreams are achievable when you just ask. Today, I want to share a story that’s been a highlight for me that tapped me directly into a source of my inspiration.

When you think about legendary sales movies, goofy Tom Cruise-Bryan Brown 1989 classic “Cocktail” might not be the first to come to mind. Yet, for me, it’s an absolute masterpiece, and the opportunity to interview the man behind it, Heywood Gould, was a dream come true—all because I tracked him down and asked.

If you needed a sign to shoot your shot, consider this one.

The film is a symphony of ambition, mentorship, and the hard knocks we all face on our road to success. Here’s why Cocktail is still incredibly relevant to anyone with career aspirations:

1⃣ “Anything else is always something better.” We often chase what’s next instead of nurturing what we have. In our careers, we think greener pastures will solve our problems, but the real value lies in doubling down on our current path and refining our craft. Keep investing in your journey.

2⃣ “Never show surprise, never lose your cool.” Handling rejection, setbacks, or deal-breakers with grace can turn the tide in our favor. In sales and in life, our resilience, composure, and ability to pivot make all the difference.

3⃣ “There are two kinds of people in this world: the workers and the hustlers.” Hustlers might take shortcuts, but workers understand that true success is built on grit and consistency. Choose to be a worker who also hustles with purpose.

Cocktail is more than just flair bartending and 80s nostalgia. It’s a story about dreams deferred, decisions made for love, and understanding what truly matters in life.

Heywood Gould revealed to me that the film drew from real, gritty bartending experiences. It was about friends who chased their dreams and sometimes found themselves on the brink of surrender. Yet, it was their ambition, camaraderie, and relentless pursuit of something more that kept them going.

Dreams come true when you pursue them relentlessly. From starting as a bartender to writing scripts for legends like Paul Newman, Heywood’s journey reminded me that the best career opportunities come from following your passion, taking chances, and being ready for when luck comes knocking.

Check out our full interview on Salesman on Fire here: https://youtu.be/DyxK57zAvKc

So, to all the dreamers out there: keep asking, keep hustling, and never be afraid to chart your own course. Your next big break could be a simple “yes” away.

What do you think? Which Coughlin’s Law do you find most relevant today? Drop your thoughts below!

#CareerLessons #Sales #CocktailMovie #Mentorship #NeverLoseYourCool #TakeTheShot #Ambition #DreamBig #LessonsFromTheBest

Unleashing Your Superpowers, Navigating Challenges & Abundance Mindset: Career Development Insights with Carson Heady & Richard Vickers

Why Career Development is More Important Than Ever
November is Career Development Month, and it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on how we can grow, advance, and invest in our careers. In a captivating conversation between Carson Heady and Richard Vickers, we explore the profound impact of mentorship, the value of discovering your superpowers, and the art of navigating professional challenges. From embracing a career lattice to maintaining a resilient mindset, this discussion is packed with insights that can transform your approach to work and life.

Career Development Month: A Time to Invest in Yourself

Richard Vickers begins by shedding light on the significance of Career Development Month. He emphasizes how corporations can empower their employees through training, skills development, mentoring, and more. Richard introduces a fresh perspective on career advancement:

“Think of it not as a career ladder but as a career lattice. Growth can come in all directions — sometimes you move laterally or even take a step down before you rise higher.”

This shift from a linear career path to a multidirectional one encourages us to be flexible and open to various opportunities for development.

The Role of Leaders in Career Growth

Carson Heady highlights the crucial role leaders play in career development. He explains how leaders can use their knowledge to mentor and illuminate paths for their teams. Reflecting on his own experiences, Carson shares an essential lesson:

“You can connect the dots backward, not forward. Even if things don’t make sense in the moment, they eventually lead you to where you’re meant to be.”

He emphasizes the importance of having a clear North Star to guide your career journey, even when the path seems uncertain.

Mentorship: The Power of Being a Mirror Holder

Richard introduces the concept of a “mirror holder,” someone who reflects back our strengths and areas for growth. He says:

“A mirror holder is crucial in our professional lives. It’s that person who reveals what we can’t see in ourselves — whether it’s a mentor, confidante, or friend.”

Carson agrees, sharing how he’s benefited from mentors who illuminated opportunities he couldn’t see on his own. This analogy underscores the importance of having someone who can provide honest feedback and guidance.

Carson Heady’s New Book: The Show Must Go On

Carson shares the personal motivation behind his new book, The Show Must Go On. Inspired by the song by Queen, the book explores resilience in the post-pandemic world:

“The fundamentals of career, sales, and leadership remain unchanged, but how we work has evolved dramatically.”

Carson opens up about the challenges he faced during significant negotiations and how the theme of perseverance guided him. He shares a relatable insight:

“Some days, it feels like getting punched in the mouth repeatedly. But the key is to keep pressing forward, no matter what.”

Uncovering Your Superpower: What Sets You Apart?

One of the standout chapters in Carson’s book focuses on identifying your superpower. He explains:

“What are those things you do uniquely well? What can you do that elevates everyone around you? Double down on those strengths.”

Carson emphasizes the importance of leveraging your strengths to add value to others. Richard echoes this, adding that developing superpowers like handling difficult conversations is essential for career advancement.

Who’s in Your Head? Conquering Mental Barriers

Carson delves into the voices that influence our self-perception and drive. He shares stories of past managers and coaches who shaped his mindset, using these voices as fuel to excel:

“We all have someone in our head pushing us to be better. I’m not competing with anyone else but my own potential.”

This powerful mindset shift can be a game-changer. Richard adds a memorable analogy:

“Where your head is, your direction follows — whether you’re driving a car or navigating your career.”

The Abundance Mindset: The Best is Yet to Come

The blog wraps up with Carson discussing the abundance mindset and the concept of taking a “balcony view” of life. Inspired by Hilka Faber’s Taming Your Crocodiles, Carson explains:

“Life is full of chaos. The key is to find comfort in ambiguity and view the bigger picture. That’s why I believe the best is yet to come.”

Richard concludes with a heartfelt reflection on surrounding yourself with “balcony people” — those who uplift and inspire you:

“Get rid of basement people who drag you down. Invite balcony people into your life who encourage you to see the beauty and potential around you.”

Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Superpowers and Move Forward

This rich dialogue between Carson and Richard offers invaluable lessons for Career Development Month and beyond. From identifying your strengths to cultivating resilience and embracing mentorship, there’s no shortage of wisdom to apply to your own career.

Ready to transform your professional journey? Pick up Carson Heady’s book, The Show Must Go On, for more actionable insights on leadership, sales, and personal growth.

Share Your Thoughts:
Which of these concepts resonated most with you? Do you have a mirror holder in your life, or are you someone else’s mirror holder? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you’re investing in your career this month!

#CareerDevelopment #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #Mentorship #Resilience #Superpowers #TheShowMustGoOn #ProfessionalJourney #MindsetShift #CareerLattice

Mastering Sales: Confidence, Consistency, and Craft (An excerpt from “Birth of a Salesman”)

In sales, countless techniques promise success, yet none are effective without one crucial element: belief in yourself. No matter how much you read, train, or prepare, confidence is the backbone that sets exceptional salespeople apart.

Sales is Everywhere

From pitching a new job opportunity to persuading a child to use the potty, we engage in sales every day. The essence of sales lies in its psychology and probability. The fortunate ones master this art, turning it into a rewarding career that elevates both their lives and those of others.

Master the Game, Log the Lessons

Success demands reflection. Keep a daily log of your efforts, choices, and challenges. Growth only comes from learning and evolving, and mistakes are an essential part of that process. But making the same mistake twice? That’s a recipe for failure. Adapt your strategies to develop positive consistency — a core element of lasting success.

The Science and Art of Selling

Sales isn’t about overwhelming prospects with a barrage of product features. It’s a sophisticated dance of understanding needs, asking intelligent questions, and providing targeted solutions. The goal is to lower defenses, uncover pain points, and demonstrate why your solution is the best path forward.

Instead of desperately listing features, make your conversations resonate with your prospects’ struggles. People buy when they feel understood, not when they feel sold to. Your role is to guide them, not to force them. People are naturally averse to change, but if you can make the fear of missing out outweigh their resistance, you’ll inspire action.

Confidence is Everything

Your attitude defines your success. Confidence allows you to face obstacles with resilience, whether it’s dealing with customer objections, handling morning setbacks, or navigating a tough manager. Sales requires the fearlessness to handle rejection and the tenacity to keep pushing forward.

Imagine yourself as Neo in The Matrix. At first, he doubted himself, but with the right mindset and repetition, he became unstoppable. In sales, you can reach that level, too. A well-practiced call flow and strategic approach become your bullet-dodging skills.

Sell Strategically

People buy from those they trust and like. Your charm, wit, and understanding of their situation are often more important than your product knowledge. Learn to present benefits tailored to their specific pain points. The most successful sales reps transform sales calls into conversations that lead to “yes” without relying on luck.

Communication is Key

Craft statements that resonate, acknowledge your prospects’ concerns, and offer solutions rooted in their unique circumstances. Use phrases that demonstrate your understanding and elevate their sense of importance. This strategic use of language builds rapport and shifts the focus from features to outcomes.

Handling Objections with Confidence

Objections are a part of the sales game. Anticipate them, acknowledge them, and address them with poise. Confidence in your approach allows you to handle setbacks gracefully, moving forward with determination.

Adapt and Evolve

Sales is a game of adaptation. Analyze each interaction and adjust your approach based on what works. Learn from every experience and apply those lessons in your next pitch. Remember, it’s not about avoiding mistakes; it’s about learning from them.

Resilience in the Face of Rejection

Setbacks are inevitable. The true measure of a salesperson is how they respond. Confidence isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the courage to act despite it. Be prepared to “fake it till you make it” if necessary, and never let frustration erode your demeanor.

Confidence: Your Secret Weapon

Great salespeople exude confidence. They believe in themselves, their product, and the value they offer. It’s this belief that gives them the ability to close deals, lead teams, and drive success. But be cautious: confidence should never slip into arrogance. Stay grounded, be open to learning, and focus on what you can control.

Embrace the Journey

Sales is about strategy, confidence, and constant growth. Whether you’re handling objections, refining your pitch, or learning from every “no,” stay committed to evolving. Success in sales is a combination of preparation, resilience, and the ability to influence others through your belief in what you offer.

Great salespeople aren’t born; they’re made. Every call, every pitch, and every rejection molds you into a stronger, more confident version of yourself. Stay adaptable, keep learning, and remember: your confidence is the foundation of your success. Never stop refining your craft.

#SalesSuccess #ConfidenceMatters #SalesLeadership #MindsetShift #SalesStrategy #BusinessGrowth #AdaptAndOvercome #ProfessionalDevelopment #MasterYourCraft

Empowering Positive Change & Bringing Everyone Together

Are you truly creating positive change, or just alienating others? The success of any positive change you aspire to create isn’t just about what you bring to the table—it’s about how you bring others along for the ride.

True influence is not just about being heard; it’s about hearing, understanding, and collaborating. Are you ready to step back, understand others’ perspectives, and create collective impact?

Here’s how to truly make a difference:

Respectful Expression: Share your opinions, feedback, and ideas without diminishing the thoughts of others. Your voice matters, but so does theirs.

Know Your Place: Understand that your value is equal to that of others. Your ideas serve the mission, not the other way around.

Seek Understanding: Dive deep into where others are coming from. Empathize, listen, and find common ground to create trust.

Serve, Don’t Command: True leaders serve. Offer to support change by becoming part of the solution and actively contributing.

Create Shared Ownership: Make others feel invested in the journey. Collaborate and welcome feedback to solidify positive change.

Influence without respect and collaboration is like building a bridge that no one wants to cross. Bring others along, and watch the magic of united progress unfold.

#Leadership #PositiveChange #Empathy #Collaboration #Respect #Communication #ChangeManagement #ServeOthers #CollectiveImpact

From Rock Bottom to Sales Leader: How Losing Everything Transformed My Career and Built My Personal Brand

Have you ever faced a moment in your career where you felt completely lost, only to find that it was the beginning of something extraordinary?

15 years ago, I found myself in a humbling position. I had been a successful, award-winning director of sales, but after unexpectedly losing my job, I realized I had no network to help me forward.

It took me 1 year and 1,600 job applications to find a job making half of what I made before (and I only got noticed because I got a book published in that year). This experience began my personal brand journey.

Fast forward to today, and I’ve earned a reputation in the sales and sales leadership ecosystem working for the greatest brand in the world, with 300,000+ followers, 5 books, and 3 podcasts.

My journey has been filled with ups and downs, but each step has been a learning experience that has shaped my personal brand and career.

Here are some key takeaways from my journey that you can apply to your own career:

Embrace Vulnerability: When I joined Microsoft, I felt like a fish out of water. I had to ask for help and seek out others to learn from. This vulnerability made me stronger and more valuable to my team.

Build Your Network: After my layoff, I realized the importance of networking. I started reaching out to people, building relationships, and creating a personal brand that stood out.

Leverage Social Media: I began using LinkedIn to share my experiences and insights. This not only helped me build my brand but also opened doors to new opportunities.

Create Valuable Content: Whether it’s writing articles, starting a blog, or hosting a podcast, sharing your unique perspective can resonate with others and establish you as a thought leader.

Be Authentic: Your authentic self is your most powerful asset. Don’t strive for perfection; instead, focus on progress and being genuine in your interactions.

Diversify Your Efforts: Think of your career like a diversified stock portfolio. Engage in various activities that showcase your skills and experiences, making you the obvious choice for future opportunities.

Embrace Continuous Learning: Always seek to learn from others and improve. This mindset will help you adapt and thrive in any environment.

Focus on Relationships and Value: In sales and in life, focus on building relationships and delivering value. Everything else will follow.

Your personal brand is a journey, not a destination. It’s about continuously evolving, learning, and making meaningful connections.

What steps will you take today to build your personal brand and network?

#PersonalBranding #Networking #CareerGrowth #LinkedInTips #Authenticity #ContinuousLearning #AI #SalesLeadership #Microsoft