Join us on Sales Lead Dog where we're joined by Larry Gordon, Managing Director of Emtec Inc., for an enlightening conversation on what it takes to be successful in the world of sales and leadership. Listen in as Larry breaks down his three essential drivers for success: capitalizing on technology inflection points, collaborating with exceptional CEOs, and prioritizing leadership actions over titles. His unique insights on fostering relationships with top-tier CEOs, alongside reflections on his own journey through sales and business development, offer a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to thrive in the tech industry.

In our chat with Larry, we unpack the transition into sales leadership and the invaluable lessons that come with it. Discover the traits Larry values in potential leaders, including integrity and a deep understanding of the intricacies of relationship-driven business. He shares his strategies for assembling a balanced team, with a mix of personalities to lead effectively. This episode is brimming with Larry's advice on keeping the focus on customer engagement and sales results, offering listeners a blueprint for fostering strong, accountable leadership within their own teams.

We also tackle the sometimes challenging world of customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Larry and I explore the delicate balance between the advantages of centralized customer information and the potential drawbacks of CRMs becoming overly complex or disconnected from sales team needs. Learn about the philosophy of "walking the Gemba" to truly understand front-line requirements, and the pursuit of a streamlined CRM that empowers rather than encumbers sales professionals. If you've ever felt weighed down by your CRM, this episode will guide you towards reassessing and reinvigorating your approach to drive your business forward.

Larry Gordon is Managing Director at Emtec and has been co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer and CEO of several successful start-ups in the IT services and digital engineering and AI spaces. Larry has held senior leadership positions at Cognizant and Capgemini. He has had successful exits and built enduring customer relationships in the AI, security, devops and digital transformation segments. He has also been a successful angel investor in the energy and cloud spaces.

Quotes:

"I love identifying good opportunities at an inflection point in the technology industry. It makes things a lot easier to market, easier to recruit salespeople, and it's exciting."

"Leadership comes down to doing leadership things as opposed to being a leader. That's one of my themes."

"Offering [CEOs] things that are really useful, in my case, it's about driving revenue... I say I can do this and be accountable for it and spend the money the right way."

Links:

Larry Gordon’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurencemgordon/

Emtec, Inc. - https://www.emtecinc.com

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

Discover the keys to becoming a sales and leadership powerhouse as Jeff Fallis of GoFormz joins us for a riveting journey through his career, from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of sales success. Learn how mentorship, a strong work ethic, and the wisdom to carve your unique career path can accelerate your ascent in any industry. Jeff's remarkable story starts with selling hockey tickets in Arizona and evolves into spearheading the digital transformation for companies across construction and field service sectors, embodying the universal applicability of sales skills.

Step into the arena where sports and business strategies converge, offering a masterclass in leadership. In this episode, Jeff and I unpack the nuances of guiding a team through the highs and lows, setting the stage for a winning mentality. We tackle the tough aspects of leadership, from the personal growth that comes with transitioning from individual contributor to a leader, to handling the complexities of delivering difficult news during a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing inspiration from sports legends, we delve into the importance of resilience, role definition, and learning from failure to create a successful business playbook.

Cementing customer relationships and achieving lasting success hinges on the synergy between sales and customer success – a theme we explore with depth and insight. Jeff shares his philosophy that the sales relationship doesn't end at closing; it's only the beginning of an ongoing partnership that can make or break client retention. We reveal the strategies for setting clear expectations, the crucial first three months post-sale, and the benefit of a cohesive team-selling approach. New team members have embraced this philosophy, which keeps salespeople actively involved and supportive, solidifying the foundations of customer relations long after the initial handshake.

Jeff Fallis is the currently the Sr. Director, Head of Sales and Customer Success at GoFormz, a San Diego based company focused on enterprise software for digital forms and data capture. His career spans over 17 years in sales and technology, having held positions as an individual contributor all the way to Executive leadership. As the Vice President of Sales at Blast Motion for 5 years, another San Diego based startup, he helped lead the company's transition from early-stage sales to multi-millions in business. As the VP of Digital Media Sales at Pointstreak Sports Technologies, he was a member of the Executive team which successfully executed the sale of the company in early 2016. Prior to joining Pointstreak, he held the position of Director, Digital Media Sales at The Active Network, which filed an IPO in May of 2011 and was a 4x Presidents Club award winner. Throughout his career, Fallis has consistently built strong sales teams and effective strategic GTM plans in the technology sector. Fallis holds a degree from the University of Dayton (Dayton, Ohio), where he was an NCAA Student Athlete, Honorable Mention All-American and 3 year starter on the Football team. He also holds a Master’s degree in Sports Business Management from The University of Tennessee, where he was a graduate assistant in the Athletic Department for 2 years before moving on to start his career in business. Mr. Fallis was born in Akron, Ohio and resides in Carlsbad, California with his wife Breana and their two children, Stella 3, and Clay 2.

Quotes:

"In sales, the game never pauses. The ability to stay focused and disciplined underpins success in any competitive field."

"Mentorship has played a critical role in my journey. I've been fortunate to have strong mentors who have helped shape my career and leadership style."

"Sales is not just about closing a deal; it's about initiating a relationship that you continually nurture for long-term success."

"Adaptability and learning that you don't know everything are key lessons that I've carried from my early career roles to today."

Links:

Jeff’s Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-fallis-a8441512/ GoFormz Website - https://www.goformz.com

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

Christopher Tomesko, the COO of Albert Weiss Air Conditioning Products, steps into the Sales Lead Dog spotlight, bringing with him a trail of successes and insights from the fiercely competitive world of sales. His story isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder; it's a testament to the tenacity and inquisitive nature that transformed an engineer into a sales virtuoso. Throughout our engaging conversation, Christopher delves into the attributes that have marked his journey—passion for the job, a competitive streak, and an extroverted personality—showing us the power of embracing one's natural talents to carve out a fulfilling career in sales and operations.

In the heart of our discussion, the value of mentorship and the art of asking the right questions come to the forefront. Christopher pays homage to the mentors who sculpted his professional ethos, from Neil Eccles' foundational influence to the collective wisdom of industry peers like Grant Neve and Ron Posner. He opens up about his own transition into a leadership role that leverages his engineering mindset, sharing his philosophy of empowering his team to independently navigate challenges. The conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to foster a culture of autonomy and success within their own teams.

Finally, we tackle the tactical intricacies of managing customer relationships and the construction value chain, especially within the demanding New York market. Christopher provides a behind-the-scenes look at the strategic balance of advocating for multiple manufacturers while maintaining strong partnerships and responsive service. As we conclude, his passion for genuine connection and transparency in sales shines through, offering a fresh perspective for those eager to enhance their skills in sales leadership. Join us as we uncover the strategies that have propelled Christopher Tomesko to the forefront of sales excellence.

Christopher Tomesko, a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in engineering, sales, and leadership, currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Albert Weiss Air Conditioning Products. Holding both Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology, he brings a strong technical foundation to his role.

Throughout his career at companies like Schneider Electric, Johnson Controls, Mechanical Technologies, and HVAC Enterprises, Christopher has consistently delivered exceptional results and contributed to organizational growth.

Since joining Albert Weiss two years ago, Christopher has tripled the company's size through strategic initiatives. He fosters a collaborative and mentoring culture, empowering colleagues to reach their potential.

Christopher's leadership drives transformative change and sets new industry standards, positioning Albert Weiss for continued success and innovation.

Quotes:

"In sales, it's not just about making transactions; it's about making connections. The stronger your relationships, the stronger your results."

"Embracing your natural talents can lead to unexpected career paths. For me, my competitive spirit, curiosity, and extroverted nature opened doors to sales leadership I never anticipated."

"Mentorship is about sculpting the professional ethos of the next generation. I owe my success to the wisdom of mentors and strive to pay it forward every day."

"The art of asking the right questions isn't just a sales technique; it's a leadership strategy that empowers teams to become autonomous problem-solvers."

Links:

Chris’s LinkedIn

Albert Weiss A/C Products Inc.

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

Join us as we explore the intriguing journey of Joshua Hall, Managing Director of Hilscher North America, from his roots as an engineering student to a visionary in sales leadership. Listen in as Joshua unravels the significance of curiosity in both personal growth and team development. His belief in sales as a structured process and his commitment to coaching and mentoring shine through in our candid conversation. It's a tale that begins humorously with a simple laptop purchase at Circuit City and evolves into a career of technological sales expertise and leadership.

Our dialogue with Joshua takes an insightful turn as we reflect on the nuances of reading customers beyond the visual cues, especially when body language is out of the equation. He shares valuable lessons learned from his days at Honeywell, emphasizing the art of questioning and listening intently—skills paramount in both sales and leadership. The discussion takes a personal angle, highlighting Joshua's decision to step into management, driven by his pursuit of an MBA and a crucial conversation about career advancement. Discover how Joshua navigated the challenges of overseeing a diverse team at a young age, crafting a narrative that's as inspiring as it is educational.

Wrapping up, we delve into the philosophies that have shaped Joshua's approach to leadership. His story about coaching youth baseball serves as a powerful metaphor for his management style, emphasizing the importance of engagement and understanding the 'why' behind actions. Joshua also imparts his views on handling failures constructively, embracing a stoic mindset, and drawing inspiration from historical figures like Ulysses S. Grant. Tune in for an episode filled with anecdotes, wisdom, and strategies that can help any sales professional or leader become a top dog in their field.

Joshua Hall is recognized for his dynamic leadership and proven ability to foster transformative change, drive sales excellence, and ensure organizational success. Currently leading as the Managing Director for Hilscher North America, he continues to leverage his extensive expertise and strategic acumen across the industry.

His career journey spans from an initial role as an Inside Sales Engineer at Honeywell to his recent impactful tenure as the Vice President of Sales at HARTING Inc. In every position, Joshua has seamlessly integrated deep technical knowledge with robust strategic growth initiatives. He is especially committed to talent development, employing active coaching and service leadership to enhance team capabilities and achieve substantial organizational growth.

Quotes:

"Curiosity has been the compass guiding my personal growth and my investment in nurturing my team's development."

"Preparation over improvisation has always been a cornerstone of my approach to sales and leadership."

"Embracing failures as stepping stones and adopting a stoic mindset have been key strategies for excelling in sales leadership."

Links:

Joshua’s Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-hall-b270767/ Hilscher North America - https://www.hilscher.com

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

Ever wondered how a technical mindset could revolutionize your sales approach? Mark Rooney, Strategy Director at Bry-Air, joins us on Sales Lead Dog, to share his journey from engineering to sales leadership and the pivotal strategies that have fueled his success. With tales of his transformation and the lessons learned along the way, Mark unravels the art of structured problem-solving and the undeniable influence of continuous learning and networking to not only meet targets but exceed them.

Navigating through the labyrinth of sales, we probe the importance of understanding the customer's decision-making process and the role of engaging with all relevant stakeholders. As we stroll down memory lane, we reflect on our early career blunders, shedding light on the finesse required to know when to persevere with a potential deal and when to gracefully bow out. As we pivot to the nuances of leadership, Mark and I dissect the challenges of team management and the delicate balancing act of internal responsibilities with customer interactions, ensuring the internal gears are as well-oiled as the external ones to enhance customer satisfaction.

In our final act, we delve into the architecture of constructing a robust sales team tailored for the technical realm. Mark stresses the significance of communication and problem-solving skills, often overshadowing specific educational pedigrees. We dissect the transformative power of learning from lost deals, leveraging these experiences as a catalyst for team mentoring and sales strategy optimization. Moreover, we explore the strategic role of CRM systems in prioritizing opportunities and streamlining processes, underscoring the criticality of data and analytics in sales triumph. For those ready to join the pack leaders in sales, connect with Mark and discover more episodes of Sales Lead Dog where we uncover the tactics of sales mastery.

Mark is a results-driven executive with 14 years of experience in strategy and sales in the manufacturing sector. He has a proven track record of driving revenue growth and market expansion through strategic initiatives and effective sales execution. He is skilled in identifying market opportunities, developing innovative strategies, and building strong relationships to achieve business objectives.

Quotes:

"So I love a diverse group. I'll say that, when it comes to the highly technical, I would say you know, it's pretty standardto. You know, look for an engineering background just because it makes more sense. But with that being said, if there were, you know, other candidates that didn't have the engineering degree but we're still a great fit, then absolutely I would love to talk to them."

"So the top three, I would say is really the sales funnel and how you use that to manage your short-term activities, but also long-term. And so I think, when I talk to my salespeople, is making sure that we're devoting enough time to those opportunities that are closing in the next 30, 60, 90 days, but also looking out towards the end of the year or into next year and making sure that we have, you know, a good backlog of upcoming opportunities that will support."

"Challenges are a part of any career journey. It's important to keep pushing forward and use those challenges as learning experiences. They help you grow and get better."

Links:

Mark’s LinkedIn

Bry-Air, Inc.

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

Adam Kustin, the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Health Network One, joins us with a wealth of wisdom on merging the might of sales and marketing into a formidable alliance. His unique journey from marketer to sales maestro showcases not just the value of curiosity and determination but also the collaborative force that is unleashed when these two worlds unite. As we chat, Adam unpacks the nuances of strategy and the personal touch required to navigate the competitive landscape of healthcare sales, offering an enlightening perspective on the power of face-to-face interaction and understanding client needs from the ground up.

Within the bustling managed care marketplace, capturing attention can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. Yet, Adam's experience proves that on-site engagements and a compelling value proposition can cut through the noise. Our dialogue reveals how showing up and engaging personally at industry events can trump digital efforts, and how retention and physical presence can turn the tide in your sales pipeline. Adam's insights are a testament to the persuasive influence of in-person networking and solving client problems where they live.

Leadership is an art, and Adam illustrates this through his own crescendo from coordinating recruitment efforts to spearheading a successful marketing squad, all without an official sales department to start with. He stresses the importance of mentorship and the courage to ask for help, along with the necessity of continuous learning and maintaining robust professional relationships. Moreover, Adam's reflection on the pivotal role of communication skills in sales and marketing, along with strategic moves like hiring a sales operations director, can light the way for anyone aiming to climb the career ladder. Join us for a session that's as rich in knowledge as it is in practical takeaways for those eager to refine their sales acumen.

Adam Kustin leads sales and marketing for Health Network One, a leader in managing full-risk specialty provider networks for Medicaid and Medicare health plans. He and his team are accountable for brand positioning, corporate communications, demand generation, and new customer acquisition. Prior to HN1, Adam led business development and strategy for several advertising agencies. He’s also held senior marketing roles in consumer packaged goods, professional services, and commercial electronics. A proud Florida Gator, he earned his MBA in Marketing and Finance from Tulane University.

Quotes:

"Sales and marketing are not just departments that need to collaborate; they are integral parts of a unified strategy that must work seamlessly together for optimal results."

"Curiosity, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace new challenges are key drivers of success in any career, especially in healthcare leadership."

"Relationship capital and mentorship are invaluable resources in the journey of career advancement. Seek out mentorship early, and build those connections that last a lifetime."

Links:

LinkedIn

Health Network One

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

Join us on a journey with Karine LeBlanc, a sales visionary, as we discuss the human touch in the tech-dominated world. Karine, VP of Sales for IAIRE, LLC., brings a breath of fresh air to the conversation by merging the high-stakes world of sales with the irreplaceable value of human connection. Her insights into IAIRE’s cutting-edge solar air conditioning systems demonstrate how innovation fuels compelling sales narratives. Furthermore, she delves into the creation of her book "How to be Human in a Technical World," offering a beacon for those in technical fields to remain grounded in their humanity. Karine's candid revelations about the hurdles she faced while writing and the pivotal role of mentorship in shaping her path provide a masterclass in personal and professional growth.

This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for both neophyte leaders in sales and seasoned veterans seeking to enrich their approach. We unveil the trials and triumphs of transitioning to a sales leadership role with a leader who recently made the leap, focusing on the power of authenticity and vulnerability in fostering a credible relationship with both team members and clients. The conversation shifts to the bedrock habits that underpin success, from the maintenance of customer relationships to the philosophy of being a beacon of assistance rather than just a salesperson. Discover the strategies and personal routines that have helped forge successful careers, and learn how simple acts like daily exercise and mental stimulation can pave the way to professional victory.

Meet Karine Leblanc, the dynamo who wears many hats—engineer, bestselling author, and international professional speaker. As the VP of Sales at iAIRE, she's not just crunching numbers; she's crafting winning sales teams with her unique blend of engineering prowess, coaching finesse, and relationship-building wizardry.

Armed with a mechanical engineering degree from Montreal's Ecole de Technologie Superieure and a slew of certifications, she's a powerhouse. Karine is a John Maxwell coach, trainer, and speaker, a certified behavioral analysis consultant, a Genos certified practitioner and an eSpeakers certified virtual presenter. Oh, and did we mention she's a Heroic Public Speaking graduate Alumni?

But wait, there's more! Karine's not your typical engineer™.

She's shattered ceilings by serving on ASHRAE's board of directors, and her accolades include the ASHRAE Distinguished Service Award and John F James International Award. Plus, she's the Past-President of the National Speaker Association Los Angeles Chapter, and her contributions to her alumni earned her the title of Leadership Ambassador. To top it off, she's also an Amazon-published author!

Get ready to be inspired by this engineering maverick who's anything but conventional. Karine Leblanc is here to transform your perspective and make learning a blast!

Quotes:

"How to be Human in a Technical World was born out of the realization that in our focus on technology, we often forget the human aspect that's so crucial in our field."

"Mentorship has been the driving force behind my success. It's about finding the right person to guide you and being open to learning and growing continuously."

"Authenticity in leadership is not just about being yourself, it's about being honest about what you know and what you don't. That vulnerability fosters credibility and long-term respect."

"When I took the VP of Sales role, I emphasized the importance of restraint in making immediate changes and the value of observing before acting."

Links:

LinkedIn

KarineLeBlanc.com

IAIRE, LLC.

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

Step into the future of healthcare with our latest episode featuring Jordan Sternberg from Signature MD, where we uncover the paradigm shift to concierge medicine. Unlock the secrets to a more personalized patient care experience as Jordan discusses the multitude of benefits this model offers to both practitioners and their patients. By fostering independence and improving financial stability, doctors are finding a renewed joy in their practice, ensuring that quality care goes hand-in-hand with a satisfying work-life balance.  

As we journey through Jordan's own evolution from salesperson to sales leader, absorb the transformative lessons of mentorship and servant leadership that have shaped his career. Our conversation is a treasure trove for current and aspiring leaders, highlighting the art of learning from setbacks and fostering an ethos of cautious optimism. Standing testament to the resilience required in the world of sales, Jordan's experiences with Care Club offer a powerful narrative on the importance of evolving personal and team strategies for success.  

Bringing the episode home, we cast a spotlight on the critical traits of sales leadership and how CRM technology can greatly augment a sales team's performance. Discover through Jordan's insight how empathy and transparency become the linchpins of effective leadership. When it comes to driving a team towards excellence, we find that empowering rather than micromanaging is the key. As we bid farewell to Jordan, our gratitude extends to you, our listeners, for your commitment to growing alongside us in the journey of sales leadership mastery. 

Jordan Sternberg is the SignatureMD Executive team as the Senior Vice President of Sales with 14 years of Healthcare sales leadership and sales operations experience. With his varied tenure spanning from his early days at ZocDoc to the recently Amazon-acquired Google Venture company One Medical, then at CareCloud managing representatives based in the USA and internationally in Pakistan, Jordan has consistently led the effective restructuring of membership sales and retention teams to achieve record sales growth and expansion. Prior to joining SignatureMD, Jordan worked with Dental Whale in Sunrise, Florida as the Head of Sales where he led a sales and customer experience team covering over 19,000 dentists across the country. Jordan resides in Palm Beach Gardens, FL with his wife, Amanda, and their two sons, Grady and Maddox.  When he’s not working, Jordan enjoys spending time with his family outdoors and spending time in the gym.

Quotes:

"It's about communication. If you are a good communicator... you can be a strong leader and it works out well for everyone and I think your team respects you more for being honest." 

"I believe that there's always a good to everything... I am always happy... it's how we get up and how we motivate each other to do better." 

"As a leader, you don't take the wins, your team takes the wins, you take the losses." 

Links: 

Linkedin: Jordan Sternberg  

Company: SignatureMD 

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