Carson V. Heady's Blog, page 39

The Art of Team Decision Making: Navigating Power Dynamics and Conflict – Connected Teamwork

Team decision making is a vital aspect of effective collaboration and achieving shared goals. In the realm of teamwork, learning to make decisions together is a crucial skill that contributes to the overall success of a team.

In this episode of the Connected Teamwork Podcast from Growth Leaders Network, Olena Sergeeva, Hylke Faber and Carson V. Heady discuss the complexities of team decision making, exploring how to stay connected to one’s authentic self, each other, and the team’s purpose in the face of challenges.

How do teams learn to thrive together? How do they stay connected to their authentic selves, each other, and their purpose, especially when confronted with challenges? How can teams unlock deeper levels of group intelligence?

Decisions are choices made at every moment, from how team members relate to their thoughts and feelings to how they allocate their time and resources. There is a six-scenario approach to decision making, categorizing decisions into “I decide,” “We discuss and decide,” “We discuss, you decide,” and “You decide” scenarios.

By creating clarity around decision rules and focusing on the team’s purpose, teams can navigate this phase more effectively.

Effective team decision making requires a balance between understanding individual vantage points and aligning the team towards a collective mission.

By encouraging team members to share their concerns and motivations, teams can identify common ground and work towards solutions that satisfy everyone’s interests.

Context Matters: Understand the context of each decision-making situation and choose an appropriate approach that aligns with the team’s needs.

Decision-Making Framework: Establish clear decision rules and categorize decisions based on scenarios, allowing for smoother discussions and resolutions.

Communication and Transparency: Foster open communication, trust, and transparency within the team to ensure everyone’s perspectives are heard.

Equal Participation: Encourage equal participation by orchestrating discussions and giving space for diverse voices to contribute.

Conflict Resolution: Address conflicts by understanding the underlying interests of each team member and working towards solutions that align with the team’s mission.

By embracing a structured decision-making framework, promoting open communication, and valuing each team member’s input, teams can unlock their collective intelligence and navigate through challenges effectively.

#TeamworkSuccess #DecisionMakingMastery #ConnectedTeamwork #LeadershipInsights #CollaborativeGoals #ThriveTogether #EffectiveCommunication #GroupIntelligence #ConflictResolution

The Life-Altering Impact of Building & Shaping Communities

During this week’s Social Selling 2.0 with Tom Burton and Brandon Lee, I had a realization: that for every area of my life and career that I’m passionate about, I have or have built a community. And it’s been life-altering.

In communities, people come together to collaborate for a greater purpose, enhancing the sum of their individual parts.

From the internal teams I’ve nurtured within various organizations over the years to the intentional communities I’ve forged with customers, partners, and even competitors, the essence of community has been a driving force that has led to exceptional results every single time.

I recall a time about a decade ago when I embarked on a new role. We were serving SMBs and encountered situations where some of our partners and even competitors had solutions that could complement ours. Instead of viewing them as adversaries, we saw the potential for collaboration.

Introducing our customers to competitors or vice versa wasn’t a threat, but rather a way to strengthen relationships, build credibility, and offer the best solutions. Our team out of St. Louis was #1 in the world 8 quarters in a row as a result.

But community isn’t limited to external connections. Looking inward, I realized the untapped potential within my organization. Recognizing that 80 managers within our business unit weren’t collectively communicating, I initiated the Coaches Corner. This space enabled us to share best practices, navigate challenges, and amplify our collective efforts – making everyone better.

An essential lesson I’ve learned is that community is abundant and versatile. I’ve witnessed its impact in churches, neighborhoods, cities, and more. A personal example is the career network I founded on LinkedIn. It has grown to over 6,000 members, showcasing the possibility of community creation around shared passions and strengths.

“To my big brother George, the richest man in town.”

Every Christmas Eve, we sit by the fire and watch “It’s a Wonderful Life.” George Bailey unknowingly built a powerful community throughout his life, enriching the lives of others. This story serves as a reminder of the transformative power we hold in creating, enabling, and investing in communities around us.

How have communities enriched your life?

#CommunityBuilding #CollaborationMatters #PowerOfCommunity #StrengthInUnity #SharedPassions #CreatingConnections #TransformativePower #BuildingTogether #EnrichingLives

The Best Secret for Social Selling Success – Build a Community! – Social Selling 2.0 Episode 48

The ability to create and build communities is a defining factor in social selling success and business growth. Being a giver, collaborator, and supporter unlocks unimaginable success.

On the latest Social Selling 2.0, the #1 social selling podcast, Tom Burton of LeadSmart Technologies, Brandon Lee of Fist Bump and Microsoft‘s #1 social seller and Salesman on Fire author Carson V. Heady discuss. Check out the full episode here:

The age of technology has transformed the way people interact, connect, and share knowledge. This transformation has given rise to the phenomenon of online communities, where like-minded individuals can come together to learn, collaborate, and thrive.

Communities can emerge within organizations, among competitors, and across diverse groups.

Even seemingly unrelated connections, such as those with competitors, can yield surprising benefits. Sharing solutions and acknowledging when a competitor is better suited for a particular scenario can contribute to an environment of collaboration and mutual success.

Ego-driven leadership can hinder community growth, making it essential for leaders to approach community-building with a humility that encourages participation from all members.

Social media platforms offer a powerful medium for creating, engaging with, and nurturing communities. Just as social selling requires providing value and building trust, successful community-building hinges on delivering relevant content, fostering interactions, and nurturing relationships.

Internal networks, specialized groups, and industry-focused forums all offer opportunities to connect and collaborate. The key is to identify areas of expertise, contribute value, and allow mutual learning to drive relationships forward.

From nurturing customer relationships to fostering internal connections and even collaborating with competitors, communities hold the potential to amplify success. Leadership, humility, and the symbiotic relationship between community-building and social selling are paramount.

What has been your experience with building and contributing to communities?

#SocialSellingSuccess #BusinessGrowth #CommunityBuilding #CollaborationWins #OnlineCommunities #LeadershipHumility #MutualSuccess #ValueDriven #SymbioticRelationships

How to Sell at ‘C’ Level – Steve Hall on Salesman on Fire with Carson Heady

C-level sales acumen involves mastering the art of relationship building and earning the right to be a trusted advisor of senior executives by knowing what they value and knowing how to deliver value and wins.

Steve Hall, the ‘C’ Level Sales Authority and top keynote speaker joins top Microsoft Director & #1 social seller Carson V. Heady, author of Salesman on Fire, to discuss. Check out the full discussion here:

Steve sheds light on the key components of developing the acumen to sell at the C-level. With years of experience, he emphasizes the importance of understanding the perspective of senior executives, offering value, and establishing meaningful relationships.

The conversation underlines the significance of the initial meeting with a senior executive. Steve emphasizes that the first step is to target the right person in the right company at the right level. Simply getting a meeting isn’t enough; it’s about maximizing the chances of that meeting being meaningful.

Steve shares a statistic that 85% of first sales meetings are considered a waste of time by senior executives. This stark reality highlights the gap between what sellers perceive as successful meetings and what executives find valuable.

Salespeople have “happy ears” and the tendency to believe things are going well. Steve emphasizes the need to earn trust, not just assume it. Trust is built by consistently demonstrating value, aligning with the executive’s priorities, and understanding their needs.

Selling at the C-level requires a combination of empathy, strategic thinking, and a commitment to adding value. By understanding the needs and perspectives of senior executives, delivering valuable insights, and building authentic relationships, salespeople can develop the acumen to sell at the highest levels of organizations.

It’s not just about making a sale; it’s about becoming a trusted advisor and contributing to the success of your clients.

#CLevelSalesMastery #TrustedAdvisorJourney #SeniorExecRelationships #ValueDeliverance #SalesAcumenInsights #ExecutiveEngagement #StrategicSellingMindset #EmpatheticSalesApproach #SalesSuccessMindset

The Power of Gratitude: Reflecting on a 2-Week Journey

Finishing a 2-week gratitude challenge, I find myself feeling like the king of the world. While the time was still marked by challenges and disappointments, I’m overwhelmed by the remarkable blessings of life.

The challenge was inspired by Anthony Iannarino‘s appearance on Social Selling 2.0, a show I do with Tom Burton and Brandon Lee, which is absolutely taking off. 48 episodes in, and we are the #1 ranked social selling podcast! The caliber of our guests is off the charts.

The point of the challenge is relatively simple: Every day, list 3 great things that happened, and WHY they happened.

It was illuminating to see the reasons great things were happening – in some cases, things that were years in the making. Every day, we are planting the seeds or nurturing the relationships that bear future fruit!

Looking back at my journal entries, several common themes emerge, reminding me of the power of gratitude:

1. The abundance of opportunity from the power of connection and relationship-building. It is so rewarding to be enriched and respected by these people. Energized by my colleagues at Microsoft, my SS2.0 co-hosts and Olena Sergeeva and Hylke Faber with whom I work on Connected Teamwork.

2. Achievement through hard work, discipline and focus. Our team is firing on all cylinders right now and it feels like being Neo in the Matrix. We’ve mastered the team game.

3. Cherishing family moments. Transitioning from end of summer to school is a lot, but dates with my wife, reading stories to my kids, sharing meals, and spending quality time with family are priceless.

4. Pride in consistency on workouts amidst knee pain, voracious reading and constantly striving for growth and betterment.

5. Joy in day-to-day things we sometimes take for granted: I’ve found joy in meals, leisurely walks, and watching TV shows, reminding me of the everyday comforts that often go unnoticed.

6. The daily vital presence and benefits of faith.

As I look back on these past two weeks, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and humility. The practice of acknowledging the good things and reflecting on their origins has deepened my appreciation for the blessings of life.

This gratitude challenge has been a powerful reminder that every day holds moments worthy of celebration, and I’m going to continue beyond the 2 weeks.

I feel like Sam Malone, in the last scene of the last episode of Cheers: “I’m the luckiest son of a ***** alive.”

Indeed, I feel blessed beyond measure.

#GratitudeChallenge #BlessedBeyondMeasure #MindsetMatters #AchievementUnlocked #PersonalGrowthJourney #SuccessMindset #RelationshipBuilding #DailyGratitude #LiveWithPurpose

Embracing the Power of Feedback: A Journey to Growth and Mastery

When I hear “I’ve got some feedback for you,” there used to be a feeling of dread. The anticipation of what’s coming, the uncertainty of what I’m about to hear – it used to make me feel defensive.

I’ve always been a perfectionist, striving for flawless outcomes and taking immense pride in my execution of processes. So, when feedback was on the horizon, I’d brace for impact and fear I let someone down or did not do a good enough job.

But over time, I’ve come to realize the immense value of feedback. Feedback isn’t about pointing out flaws; it’s about enhancing our skills, refining our approaches, and expanding our perspectives.

Throughout my journey, I’ve learned to appreciate it as a tool for growth, even if it stings initially.

I recall four key pillars of feedback that have been pivotal in shaping my career trajectory:

Building Consensus and Relationships: In my early career, rapid promotions brought challenges. While advocating for my team, I realized the importance of building consensus and nurturing relationships. “Win the crowd,” an old mentor advised. It dawned on me that success isn’t about being the smartest person in the room; it’s about fostering collaboration and ensuring every voice is heard.

Control the Controllables: I used to focus on external factors that seemed to hinder my optimal performance. But the reality is, success lies in our ability to execute, regardless of circumstances. I learned to control the controllables, playing the hand I’m dealt with unwavering determination.

Network Is Your Net Worth: My network has proven to be invaluable throughout my journey. Titles and achievements are important, but it’s the relationships and reputation that truly open doors. Networking has propelled me forward, leading to opportunities I never imagined.

Hero Maker vs. Hero: The guidance of a remarkable manager and mentor pushed me to be more than just a hero. Instead of defending my stance, I learned to step back, reflect, and embrace the perspective offered. Being a hero maker, one who constantly evolves, has been a transformative approach.

As I look back on my journey, these pillars stand tall as testaments to the transformative power of feedback. It’s not about perfectionism; it’s about progress. So, let’s all strive to be open to feedback, to welcome the discomfort that accompanies growth, and to emerge as the best versions of ourselves.

I’m immensely grateful for the guidance and feedback that have shaped me. And as I continue to learn and evolve, I encourage you all to do the same. Remember, the path to mastery is paved with feedback, and the journey is worth every step.

What feedback has been transformational for you?

#Leadership #FeedbackCulture #TeamworkExcellence #GrowthMindset #ConnectionMatters #AuthenticityInTeams #PersonalGrowth #FeedbackJourney #CollaborationSuccess

Mastering Feedback: Nurturing Growth and Connection in Teams – Connected Teamwork

By approaching feedback conversations with intention, empathy, and a growth-oriented mindset, leaders and team members can cultivate an environment where learning, connection, and collaboration thrive.

On the most recent Connected Teamwork Podcast, Growth Leaders Network‘s Olena Sergeeva and Hylke Faber, author of Taming Your Crocodiles, and Microsoft‘s Carson V. Heady, author of Salesman on Fire, delve into the vital realm of feedback within teams – a topic that often evokes a range of emotions and challenges.

How can we navigate the delicate landscape of providing and receiving feedback while fostering growth, connection, and authenticity in our teams?

Feedback is more than a casual exchange of opinions; it’s an opportunity to cultivate growth, build stronger connections, and align individual goals with team objectives.

The hosts share personal stories of feedback that left a lasting impact on their growth. These stories demonstrate how feedback, even when uncomfortable, can catalyze transformation.

Emotions are an integral part of feedback discussions. While emotions can be intense, they are not the enemy. Instead, they provide valuable insights into what matters to us and why. It’s crucial to acknowledge and understand these emotions while maintaining a balance between expressing them and communicating effectively.

As leaders, the hosts emphasize the importance of creating a culture that values feedback, tying feedback to individual aspirations, and focusing on specific, actionable advice.

Feedback is a dynamic force that propels teams toward greatness. As you embark on your feedback journey, remember that feedback is a gift – a powerful tool that guides us toward personal and collective excellence.

What is some powerful feedback that positively changed your life, even if it stung in the moment?

#Leadership #FeedbackCulture #TeamworkExcellence #GrowthMindset #ConnectionMatters #AuthenticityInTeams #PersonalGrowth #FeedbackJourney #CollaborationSuccess

Seeking Mastery: Navigating Professional Development for Success – Jeff Kirchick & Carson Heady

In this fast-paced world, staying at the top of your game is not only a desire but a necessity. The ever-evolving landscape demands constant learning and improvement to maintain relevance and achieve success.

Able Sales VP and author Jeff Kirchick joins Microsoft Director and Salesman on Fire author, Carson V. Heady to discuss constant learning, career growth and sharpening your saw as a sales professional.

Jeff and Carson delve into the importance of professional development and share insights on how they continuously master their crafts.

Mentors and Networks: These relationships provide a platform for exchanging ideas, learning from experienced individuals, and gaining insights into different perspectives.

The Power of Continuous Learning: Successful professionals remain perpetual students, consistently seeking new knowledge to enhance their capabilities. This can come through following thought leaders or people doing what you want to do, books, podcasts and other materials.

Sharing Insights Through Podcasting, Connecting with others: Engaging in conversations with peers and leaders allows professionals to learn from one another. These discussions serve as opportunities to exchange thoughts, gather new ideas, and collectively contribute to the industry’s growth.

Overcoming the First Step: Many individuals are held back by the fear of inadequacy or the unknown. However, taking that first step—whether it’s joining a network, enrolling in a course, or sharing insights—is often the most challenging yet crucial aspect of the journey.

Professional development requires a multi-pronged approach that includes learning from mentors, engaging with networks, consuming knowledge through books and courses, and contributing to the field through platforms like podcasts.

By actively participating in these activities and embracing the process of continuous learning, individuals can elevate their skills, enhance their industry presence, and remain at the forefront of their respective domains.

How are you mastering your craft?

#ProfessionalDevelopment #ContinuousLearning #CareerGrowth #SalesMastery #LeadershipInsights #IndustryInnovation #Networking #PersonalGrowth #SuccessMindset

Embracing Change: Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Sales with Technology and Human Connection

As a proud, lifelong student of sales, I marvel at the dynamic changes that have shaped its landscape over the last couple of decades. It has been a rewarding experience of growth, learning, and adaptation.

The thrill of building connections, nurturing relationships, and guiding prospects towards making informed decisions has always resonated with me.

To stay ahead in this evolving environment, I’ve embraced technology as a powerful tool. Social selling, AI-driven insights, and data analytics have all become integral parts of my sales strategy. These tools enable me to arm myself with relevant information about my customers, their industries, and their pain points, allowing me to engage in insightful conversations that go beyond product features.

However, the rise of technology comes with a responsibility to rise above the noise. Amid the automation and AI-driven interactions, I believe the true differentiator lies in genuine human connection. By using video, personalized messaging, and targeted communication, I’ve been able to break through the clutter and establish authentic rapport with customers.

I’ve learned that success isn’t just about closing deals; it’s about fostering an ecosystem of trust, collaboration, and shared growth. By creating platforms for knowledge exchange and fostering an environment of mutual support, I’ve been able to lead teams that excel and inspire others.

However, I also recognize the need for constant self-improvement. Staying focused on strategic execution and maintaining discipline in my daily routines remain areas where I continually challenge myself.

In a dynamic field like sales, it’s easy to get lost in the details and lose sight of the bigger picture. By prioritizing ruthless discipline in scheduling and maintaining clarity on my objectives, I strive to become the most effective leader I can be.

To those aspiring to enter the world of sales, I offer this advice: Be prepared for a thrilling and ever-evolving journey. The world of sales is not just about pitching products; it’s about earning the right to be a trusted advisor, being a problem solver, and a partner in your customers’ success. Embrace the tools at your disposal, but remember that true success lies in the ability to connect authentically, communicate effectively, and always strive to add value.

#SalesJourney #AdaptAndThrive #TechInSales #HumanConnection #AuthenticityWins #GrowthMindset #LeadershipGoals #SalesWisdom #ValueDrivenSuccess

Seize the Moment! Go Meet Those Leaders You Admire

Just go meet them. You’ll never forget it, even if they do. One of my first managers at Southwestern Bell instilled that in me after a Town Hall as everyone filed out and she walked me up to meet CEO Ed Whitacre.

Here, I met #3 ranked CEO in the world, Bob Chapman! I met Bill Rancic from The Apprentice and even singer/songwriter Gavin DeGraw this way (we now follow each other on Twitter and message each other from time to time – he was integral when I proposed to my wife during our song at one of his concerts, as he was in on it), plus many famous athletes and business leaders.

The point is this: relatively very few people take the initiative or have the courage to go meet these luminaries. I still remember my manager marching me towards the front of that Town Hall 21 years ago and it stuck with me: they are people, and showing your interest in what they do or say matters.

So when you see that senior leader or great speaker or “legend,” respectfully take a moment to acknowledge your admiration. If they invite you to talk more, all the better, but it will be an experience you’ll always cherish.

#Leadership #Networking #Inspiration #MeetingHeroes #CourageousConnections #CareerAdvice #MemorableEncounters #ProfessionalGrowth #MeetingLegends