WINNING AT SELLING

Sales wants marketing to create demand, open doors, and make conversations easier. Marketing wants sales to take that momentum and turn it into revenue. But when the two teams operate in silos, sales ends up asking for things marketing never planned to create, while marketing creates things sales never uses. So how do we get sales and marketing working together in a way that actually helps both teams win?

Sales-Marketing Team Alignment Challenges

Bill, Beau and John discussed the challenges in the relationship between sales and marketing teams, highlighting how poor communication and silos can lead to misaligned strategies and missed opportunities. They emphasized the importance of regular, open communication between sales and marketing teams, using an example of a successful salesperson named Marty who actively engaged with the marketing team to achieve better results. John stressed the need for alignment from the beginning and the value of sales feedback in shaping consistent brand messaging, while Bill noted the disconnect that can occur between director-level decisions and actual sales experiences on the ground.

Sales and Marketing Alignment Discussion

Bill, John and Beau discussed the challenges of alignment between sales and marketing teams, particularly how different perspectives can emerge between management and front-line staff. They explored how marketing can effectively support sales by creating familiarity and pre-qualifying prospects before sales conversations, with Beau emphasizing the importance of understanding customer experiences and needs. The discussion concluded with insights about how modern marketing must adapt to the "zero click era" by creating valuable content that can be discovered through AI and large language models, with Bill recommending OrangeBall Creative as a resource for companies in the Midwest area.

Golden Nugget:

"If sales and marketing are telling different stories, the customer gets to decide which one to believe."

Resources:

OrangeBall.ai – Self-directed, AI enhanced marketing and branding services

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Bill Hellkamp email: Bill.Hellkamp@reachdev.com

You've made a great connection with your prospect, helped them identify their need and motivation, and guided them to a solution that makes sense for them only to run into hesitation. Today we get to unpack what your prospect's stall or objections are telling you and how to respond in a way that makes it easy for them to buy TODAY.

Erik discussed how a pause or objection from a prospect during a sales process should be viewed as a positive sign indicating the customer has moved into the reasoning stage of the buying cycle. He emphasized that salespeople should resist the urge to immediately go into sales mode and instead allow the prospect time to think and consider the information presented. Bill agreed with this approach, referencing a previous episode with Erik Thurwanger about The Ponder Principle and emphasizing the importance of letting prospects think without filling silence with unnecessary talk.

Erik and Bill discussed strategies for handling customer pauses during the sales process, focusing on the four-step buying cycle and how to address customer hesitation in the reasoning stage. They explored techniques for uncovering objections, including asking questions about concerns and presenting customers with two clear options: either the solution hasn't been fully developed or the price point isn't where the customer hoped it would be. Bill emphasized the importance of not automatically dropping prices and suggested that salespeople should better address the "why, now, and why you" questions that customers naturally ask.

Golden Nugget: "If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far go together." African Proverb

Resources:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Bill Hellkamp email: Bill.Hellkamp@reachdev.com

Erik Haugen LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erikrhaugen

Erik Haugen Contact: erik@propcoachingandconsulting.com

PROP Coaching and Consulting website: www.propcoachingandconsulting.com

A prospect tells you the meeting was great, asks for a proposal, and seems genuinely interested. Then, they suddenly disappear! Ghosting isn't always a follow-up problem. Often, something was missed earlier in the sales process. We'll look at the difference between interest and real commitment, and the warning signs around trust, value, qualification, decision process, and next steps that salespeople may be overlooking.

Sales Prospect Ghosting Solutions

Bill and Brian discussed the common sales challenge of prospects "ghosting" after showing initial interest. They identified several key reasons for this phenomenon, including lack of trust built during the sales conversation, failure to understand the prospect's true needs, and insufficient qualification of opportunities. The discussion emphasized the importance of asking the right questions to uncover decision-making processes and gain genuine commitments rather than sending proposals without proper follow-up or meeting arrangements. They concluded by encouraging salespeople to reflect on four key questions before leaving prospect meetings: whether trust was established, if there's a real reason for change, understanding the decision process, and securing actual commitments for next steps.

Golden Nugget:

"The quality of your life is a direct reflection of the quality of the questions you are asking yourself." — Tony Robbins

Resources:

Brian Maas LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brianmaas

Brian Maas Contact: brian@intentionalselling.com

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: www.reachdev.com

It's not skill. It's not knowledge. It's identity. When someone doesn't see themselves as a "salesperson," they unconsciously self-sabotage—underpricing, over-delivering before the sale, and avoiding the ask. Changing behavior without changing identity never sticks.

Sales Failure Analysis Discussion

Bill and Stefani discussed examining and learning from sales failures to identify mental blocks, with Bill emphasizing the importance of reviewing their processes. Bill shared his experience teaching public speaking, noting that fear often stems from past negative experiences, and described how he helped students overcome these fears by reviewing their videos positively to create new, more positive mental associations.

Sales Course Visualization Techniques

Stefani discussed her eight-week sales course that focuses on mindset and identity before covering the sales process, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental barriers first. She explained her teaching on visualization techniques where salespeople close their eyes before sales calls to envision positive outcomes, which she described as rewiring the brain through neuroplasticity. Stefani used the analogy of water flowing around rocks to illustrate how consistent visualization can create new neural pathways.

Overcoming Sales Mental Blocks

Bill and Stefani discussed three steps for overcoming sales mental blocks: removing emotion from failures, identifying smallest changes that could have made a difference, and inserting positive energy into negative situations. Stefani then presented on identity as a key factor in sales performance, explaining how talented salespeople underperform due to incorrect beliefs about themselves and their role as guides rather than pushy salespeople.

Golden Nugget: "Whether you think you can or you think you can't—you're right."-- Henry Ford

Resources:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: www.reachdev.com

Stefani Havel LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stefanihavel

Stefani Havel Website: www.stefanihavel.com

Convert Guide: SalesStrategyNetwork.com/Convert

In sales, there can be a wide variety of pressure points. You may have a customer that claims they just want the lowest price. Your company may be demanding you sell more of one product over another. How do these factors influence the decisions you make in selling? Are you more concerned about your needs or the needs of your customer? On today's episode, we will consider the following question: When the pressure to produce and the responsibility to serve the customer collide, what guides your decision?

Decision Collision in Sales

Jimmy discussed the concept of decision collision in sales, explaining how pressures from companies to meet goals can conflict with serving customer needs. He described how sales professionals often face multiple directives that can distract from focusing on what customers truly need. Bill agreed with this perspective, sharing his experience with problematic commission and incentive programs that can lead salespeople to make unethical decisions to meet short-term goals rather than generate genuine new business.

Sales Ethical Decision Framework Discussion

Jimmy and Bill discussed the challenges sales professionals face when managing conflicting pressures between company goals and customer needs. They identified three key collision points: recommending solutions that benefit the company more than the customer, not fully representing product features and benefits, and omitting important information that could affect customer decisions. Jimmy presented a decision framework using the four Ws (who benefits, what is being chosen, why the recommendation is being made, and when it would be defensible) to help salespeople maintain ethical standards while meeting production goals.

Golden Nugget: "In your daily interactions with others, you might think the question in everyone's mind is, Do I like you? but the more important question, and the question everyone is actually asking is, Can I trust you?" David Horsager, from his book, Trust Matters More Than Ever.

Resources:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Jimmy Z LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jimmyzugschwert

Jimmy Z Website: JimmyZSpeaks.com

Although studies show that buying is an emotional decision, most salespeople tend to stay in the realm of logic. To move a prospect into emotional territory the seller needs to induce them to "think", to "ponder". And getting the prospect to ponder, can revolutionize your selling process.

Causing Prospects to Ponder

Erik and Bill discussed the importance of causing prospects to "ponder" rather than just hear or listen during sales presentations. Erik explained that when sales professionals make people think deeply about their message, it leads to better decision-making, contrasting with the common practice of presenting generic information. They noted that buyers have become more sophisticated and perceive 70% of salespeople as sounding the same, creating an opportunity for sales professionals to differentiate themselves through more thoughtful and personalized approaches.

Thought-Provoking Sales Questions Strategy

Erik and Bill discussed the importance of asking thought-provoking questions in sales conversations rather than relying on outdated or intrusive techniques. Erik emphasized the need for sales professionals to prepare creative questions that elicit emotional responses from prospects, suggesting the use of "0 to 10" ranking questions to understand what matters most to clients. Bill agreed on the importance of preparation and developing a guided question set, while Erik highlighted the goal of helping clients make decisions based on emotional impact and value rather than just features and benefits.

Sales Questioning and Conversion Strategies

Erik shared his sales approach of using emotional and logical questions to identify gaps between clients' expectations and current reality, particularly using a 1-10 scale to determine what's most important to prospects. He emphasized the importance of causing clients to ponder through strategic questioning and noted that effective sales professionals should be multidimensional, offering multiple services beyond their primary offering. The discussion highlighted how salespeople can increase conversion rates by understanding client needs better and addressing specific gaps rather than presenting generic solutions.

Golden Nugget: "In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity." – Albert Eistein

Resources:

Erik Therwanger LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erik-therwanger-5624b35

Erik Therwanger Contact: erik@thinkgreat90.com

Erik Therwanger Website: www.thinkgreat90.com

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Bill Hellkamp email: Bill.Hellkamp@reachdev.com

Are you letting sales be done to you or are you planning and accounting for them so there are less surprises? With proper planning you can effectively have each quarter WON by the time it starts instead of waiting to see what happens at the end!

Golden Nugget: "By failing to prepare you're preparing to fail." Benjamin Franklin

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Bill Hellkamp email: Bill.Hellkamp@reachdev.com

Erik Haugen LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erikrhaugen

Erik Haugen Contact: erik@propcoachingandconsulting.com

PROP Coaching and Consulting website: www.propcoachingandconsulting.com

One of the simplest things salespeople can do to improve their meetings is also one of the most overlooked: a well-planned agenda. In less than two minutes, you can establish credibility, show you're prepared, involve the prospect in shaping the conversation, and set expectations for what happens next. The agenda isn't just about organizing a meeting, it's about earning the right to lead it.

Golden Nugget: "Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines, practiced every day." ~ Jim Rohn.

In this episode:

Brian Maas LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brianmaas

Brian Maas Contact: brian@intentionalselling.com

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: www.reachdev.com

Most salespeople quit after one or two touches. But research says most decisions happen after five to twelve. This episode is about what to say on follow-up #3, #5, and #7. How do you add value instead of "just checking in".

Sales Follow-up Strategies Discussion

Stefani discussed the importance of effective follow-up in sales, emphasizing that it's not about being pushy but about serving the client by staying relevant, adding value, and deepening trust. She shared a structured follow-up methodology using her "convert method" where each touchpoint should achieve one of three goals: staying relevant, adding value, or deepening trust. Bill shared his approach of directly asking prospects to confirm their decision to either move forward or end the conversation, which Stefani praised as giving prospects permission to be honest about their intentions.

Golden Nugget: "It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." -- Confucius

In this episode:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: www.reachdev.com

Stefani Havel LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stefanihavel

Stefani Havel Website: www.stefanihavel.com

As a salesperson it's easy to get excited about your product or service. So much so that you can find yourself explaining about the great benefits before you even know much about the prospect. In essence, we want to tell our story before we listen to their story. Instead, resist the urge to tell and allow their stories to guide you to a valuable solution.

Active Listening in Sales Techniques

Jimmy discussed the importance of active listening in sales, emphasizing the need to listen to understand rather than to respond. He explained how asking clarifying questions and showing genuine curiosity can help build rapport with clients. Bill agreed with these principles, sharing his advice to prepare good questions in advance and practice techniques like "tell me more" to encourage clients to share more information.

Building Client Rapport Strategies

Jimmy and Bill discussed the importance of building rapport and making genuine connections with clients. Jimmy emphasized the need for preparation, active listening, and focusing entirely on the other person to establish trust and gather honest information. He shared his approach of building a "bridge of influence" through asking questions and inviting clients to share their values and future goals. Bill shared a personal anecdote about his mother's experience of feeling overlooked, highlighting the importance of full attention and focus in conversations.

Golden Nugget: "Most people do not listen with the intent to understand, they listen with the intent to reply." Stephen R. Covey

In this episode:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Jimmy Z LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jimmyzugschwert

Jimmy Z Website: JimmyZSpeaks.com

The sales profession can be a very lucrative career. You can grow a client that buys regularly and provides a hefty commission. Or you might be a hunter who is especially suited to developing new clients which might pay even better. No matter which type of sales professional you are, you likely measure your success by how much you make; but the top sales professionals measure their success by how much of that money they are able to keep.

In this episode Bill Hellkamp welcomes sales leadership coach, Steve Keating to discuss sound fiscal principles that salespeople should employ if they wish to have the money they need to ensure a prosperous future. Key topics include:

The importance of good fiscal practices. How needless debt and uncontrolled spending eat away at your future. Strategies to control spending and increase consistent savings. The power of the future value of money and compound interest. Stupid spending examples from both Bill and Steve.

Golden Nugget: "Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving." - Warren Buffett

Connections and Resources:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Bill Hellkamp email: Bill.Hellkamp@reachdev.com

Steve Keating LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stevekeating

Steve Keating Contact: stevekeating@leadtoday.net

Are you making it easy for your customer to buy?

The job of Sales, in its simplest form, is to ask, say, and do things that make it easy for your prospect to say yes to your product/service/solution TODAY! Yet, it seems that some salespeople blather on about features long before they know which ones really connect with the prospect.

In sales cultures that are so focused on selling we are being counterintuitive to why people buy! Telling is selling and people don't like being sold but they love to buy! SO let's make it easy…

Customer-Centric Sales Strategy

Erik discussed the importance of making it easy for customers to say yes by focusing on customer needs rather than product features, emphasizing the need for sales teams to ask questions and lead with curiosity. He shared insights about new hire performance and the concept of "ignorance on fire" being more effective than "knowledge on ice" for sales success. The discussion highlighted how companies should avoid overwhelming new salespeople with product details and instead focus on helping customers discover their needs through strategic questioning.

Golden Nugget: "You need to care about your customer more than you care about your product and care about your people even more!" Jesse Cole creator of Banana Ball and the Savannah Bananas

Connections and Resources:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Bill Hellkamp email: Bill.Hellkamp@reachdev.com

Erik Haugen LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ erikrhaugen

Erik Haugen Contact: erik@propcoachingandconsulting.com

PROP Coaching and Consulting website: www.propcoachingandconsulting.com

Have you ever finished what you thought was a great sales call only to hear, 'This looks good, but I need to run it by my boss?' Most salespeople breathe a sigh of relief because they think the deal is still alive. Sometimes it is. But what usually happens is you've just been removed from the most important part of the sales conversation."

In this episode, Bill is joined by guest host, Brian Maas. They discuss winning strategies and key questions to avoid getting trapped by a prospect who needs to take the proposal to be approved by others.

Book Club: Inner Excellence by Jim Murphy – Chapter 2 Where the Wild Things Are: Pride and Fear and the Center of the Universe

Golden Nugget: "You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help enough other people get what they want." Zig Ziglar

In this episode:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Brian Maas LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brianmaas

Brian Maas Website: www.intentionalselling.com

Most salespeople who struggle with confidence think it's a personality problem. It's not. It's a structure problem. When you don't know what comes next, your brain fills the gap with anxiety, and that anxiety shows up as hesitation, over-explaining, or caving on price.

Here's what I want every listener to hear: confidence is not something you either have or you don't. It's not a personality type. It's not a gift some people are born with. Confidence is manufactured, through preparation, repetition, and having a process you trust. The salespeople who look naturally confident in a room? They've usually just internalized a structure so deeply it looks effortless. Take that structure away and watch what happens.

Golden Nugget:

"Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe." — Abraham Lincoln

In this episode:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Stefani Havel LinkedIn: linlinkedin.com/in/stefanihavel

Stefani Havel Website: www.SalesStrategyNetwork.com

CONVERT Guide: www.SalesStrategyNetwork.com/Convert

The first time we meet with a prospect is exciting and challenging. The whole opportunity waits for us to uncover it. But it is also fraught with dangers. Will we get along? Do we have a solution that meets their needs? Will I be able to understand the core issues the prospect needs to solve?

This is such a valuable topic, because we all want to get started on the right foot in our first meeting with a new client. More than just a great first impression, we want to make a real connection. Over my four decades in sales, I have found a strategy that consistently gives me greater connection in that first meeting by taking the time to care about them before I ever meet them.

Golden Nugget: "Caring about them and their business before you ever meet allows you to ask better questions and stand out from your competition. Your commitment to them in advance of your first meeting will help them realize that you are there for them!" Jimmy Z

In this episode:

Bill Hellkamp LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/billhellkamp

Bill Hellkamp Website: reachdev.com

Jimmy Z LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jimmyzugschwert

Jimmy Z Website: JimmyZSpeaks.com

On Tuesday January 13, 2026, Scott "The Professor" Plum, my good friend, business partner and the co-host of the Winning at Selling podcast died suddenly. After 5 years and over 300 weekly conversations a great advocate for the selling profession went silent. In this episode I attempted to find some of the fun and interesting conversations and diatribes that give the best profile of what he believed and stood for.

January has a way of forcing clarity. Some people lean into that through Dry January, which is about far more than alcohol. It's about recognizing the distractions we use to numb discomfort, delay discipline, and avoid our best work. In sales—and in life—success rarely breaks down because of a lack of talent. It breaks down because distractions keep winning.

Today's conversation focuses on how discipline allows us to control ourselves, influence others, and make a meaningful difference.

If you're serious about cutting distractions, honoring your God-given gifts, and building a better 2026, join Bill and I as we welcome Tim Murray to discuss Why Discipline Beats Distraction Every Time on Episode 702 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Bravo Zulu House – Tim Murray – https://www.bravozuluhouse.org/

Johnny Franchise - https://www.johnnyfranchise.com

Book: Great Leaders Make Sure Monday Morning Doesn't Suck: https://www.amazon.com/Great-Leaders-Monday-Morning-Doesnt/dp/B0B8F7W838/ref=sr_1_1

Eric Harkins - https://ericharkins.com/

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Not all customers are created equal—and treating them as if they are is one of the most common and costly mistakes organizations make. Companies often pride themselves on "great service for everyone," yet fail to recognize that limited resources require intentional allocation.

Consider how you might categorize your companies service philosophy as Scott and I discuss The Value of Ranking Your Customers and other terrific tidbits on Episode 701 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Johnny Franchise - https://www.johnnyfranchise.com

Book: Great Leaders Make Sure Monday Morning Doesn't Suck: https://www.amazon.com/Great-Leaders-Monday-Morning-Doesnt/dp/B0B8F7W838/ref=sr_1_1

Eric Harkins - https://ericharkins.com/

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Welcome to show number 700! For Bill and me this is show #300. Every week for the past 5 years, 8 months and 24 days Bill and I have worked to deliver the latest sales advice, strategy and tactics so you can win at selling. Asking the right questions is a key capability of the sales professional.

So let us answer your questions with our questions as Bill and I reveal the Ten Greatest Selling Questions and other incredible information on Episode 700 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Handout: https://mnsales.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Ten-Greatest-Selling-Questions.pdf

Eric Harkins - https://ericharkins.com/

Book: Great Leaders Make Sure Monday Morning Doesn't Suck: https://www.amazon.com/Great-Leaders-Monday-Morning-Doesnt/dp/B0B8F7W838/ref=sr_1_1

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Johnny Franchise - https://www.johnnyfranchise.com

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

We all want to believe that we are great leaders – thoughtful, generous, capable. But are we really all that good? How do the people on our team feel on Monday morning? Are they excited and eager or are they dreading the thought of coming in to work?

It's time to gauge your leadership capabilities as Scott and I welcome author and leadership consultant, Eric Harkins to discuss his book Great Leaders Make Sure Monday Morning Doesn't Suck on Episode 699 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Johnny Franchise - https://www.johnnyfranchise.com

Eric Harkins - https://ericharkins.com/

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Many professionals wonder if they really need a mentor, especially when they're already working hard and doing well. But effort without experienced guidance can slow growth, increase mistakes, and limit potential. A seasoned mentor sees the sharp edges you don't, challenges you in ways you won't, and accelerates the progress you can't create alone. If you're questioning whether now is the time, join Bill and me as we contemplate Do I Really Need A Mentor? and other evidence on Episode 698 of the Winning at Selling Podcast

Handout: Do I Really Need a Mentor - 10 Questions to Ask Yourself

Ep 626 - The Gift of Mentorship

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Most people think of "comfort" as a good thing. And in many situations, it is. Comfort can mean safety, familiarity, and the absence of immediate threats. But when it comes to growth, achievement, and personal transformation, comfort is often the silent saboteur. It's the invisible line that separates who you are from who you could become.

So put your feet up as Scott and I sink into Your Comfort Zone is Your Failure Zone and other magnificent matters on Episode 697 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

What if the biggest obstacle standing between you and your sales goals isn't your product, your price, or your prospects—but the voice inside your head? Negative self-talk silently sabotages even the most skilled salespeople, creating doubt, hesitation, and missed opportunities. In this episode, we explore how your inner dialogue directly impacts your sales performance and discover the Thoughts On Demand® framework—a proven method for breaking free from self-limiting beliefs.

So, join Bill and me as we welcome author and Certified Business Coach, Paul Boehnke as he tells us why Your Biggest Objection Might Be In Your Head on Episode 696 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Paul's Book - https://www.amazon.com/Thoughts-Demand-Self-Talk-Unstoppable-Confidence/dp/B0BBWN15WH/

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

When life turns up the heat, we don't rise to the occasion—we fall back to our preparation. In moments of pressure, we draw from whatever we've been putting inside ourselves all along. Like a well, our inner world stores the beliefs, emotions, and habits that shape our reactions. And when stress hits, the "bucket" only brings up what's already in the well.

So, get a grip on the rope as Scott and I delve into What's In the Well Comes Up In the Bucket and other substantial subjects on Episode 695 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Most salespeople are trained to build rapport, gather information, and follow up later. But what if your prospect is ready today? In service-based, in-home sales (home- improvement, senior care, children's services, etc.) the best close might happen on the first visit. Do you want to be strong in influencing or persistent in follow-up to make a sale?

Join Bill and me as we break down How to Close on the First Appointment - Part Two by building curiosity and interest, defining the buying criteria, uncovering motivation and creating urgency to close the deal with confidence on Episode 694 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

7 Ways to Close on the First Appointment Handout: Click here

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Few business challenges are more painful than hiring a salesperson who interviews well but fails to deliver. A poor producer can cost your company six to seven figures annually in salary, training, lost customers, and missed opportunities. While most sales leaders say they want reps with "fire in the belly," few know how to identify it reliably. In this episode, we reveal the proven, scientific formula: the three non-teachable traits that define top Hunter salespeople. You'll learn how to spot these traits in your candidates before hiring — so you can build a team of true producers, not pretenders.

So, pay heed as Scott and I welcome author and researcher Dr. Chris Croner to reveal how you will Never Hire a Bad Salesperson Again on Episode 693 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

SalesDrive - https://salesdrive.info/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Most salespeople are trained to build rapport, gather information, and follow up later. But what if your prospect is ready today? In service-based, in-home sales (home- improvement, senior care, children's services, etc.) the best close might happen on the first visit. Do you want to be strong in influencing or persistent in follow-up to make a sale?

Join Bill and me as we break down How to Close on the First Appointment - Part One by building curiosity and interest, defining the buying criteria, uncovering motivation and creating urgency to close the deal with confidence on Episode 692 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

7 Ways to Close on the First Appointment Handout: Click here

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

One of the most crucial and creative aspects of selling is developing new customers. It is also what separates the farmers from the hunters. Unfortunately, in the current business climate it seems more difficult than ever to find and connect with your ideal client. But there are some strategies you can use.

So, dust off that prospecting list as Scott and I put a stamp on Creative B2B Prospecting Ideas and other novel nuggets on Episode 691 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Handout: Click here

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Most companies stumble when launching something new—not because the idea is bad, but because they treat the launch like a one-time event instead of a repeatable discipline.

Whether it's a product, service, or strategic initiative, success depends on more than development—it hinges on execution. In this episode, we'll explore why so many launches fall short, why launch success matters, and how a few proven best practices can flip the odds in your favor.

Keep your powder dry and your eyes up as you join Bill and me for Launching Best Practices to Help You Win on Episode 690 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Bob Freytag's company - IntroWorks - https://intro.works/

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Rejection sucks! At least that how I've always seen it. But others that I've worked with don't seem to get affected by it. As a matter of fact it seems to get a fire lit under them. So, what's the difference in our responses and how can we all get better at dealing with rejection

Grab your smiley face buttons as Scott and I wrestle with Handling Rejection Like a Pro on Episode 689 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

We often celebrate outcomes — the closed deal, the big win, the promotion. But what if the way we got there says more about us than the result itself? Today, we'll explore why the means — the process, the behaviors, the discipline — matter just as much as, if not more than, the ends.

So, put on your party hats as Bill and I explore Seven Tips to Goal Setting and other persnickety perceptions on Episode 688 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

You've seen the picture of a bridge being constructed where the two side are supposed to meet and they don't! Well, that is what misalignment looks like. In most firms, the sales function is the largest lever for executing strategy—yet it's often misaligned with the choices leaders say they've made. Fixing that gap is crucial for organizational success.

So, get yourself straight as Scott and I welcome author and lecturer Frank Cespedes to discuss his book Aligning Strategy and Sales on Episode 687 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

We all carry voices from our past into our present—from our parents, the pastor from Sunday, the last prospect who brushed us off, the customer who complained about delivery, even our boss reminding us about our quota.

They echo in the back of our minds and distract us from the person sitting right in front of us, now. The problem is, those voices always seem to show up when we're trying to prospect, sell, lead, or negotiate. With so many invisible passengers riding along, it feels like we need a bus just to carry them all. The real question is this: Are you going to let these pesky little voices - keep driving your future—or is it time to leave them on the bus, including your mother?

Pull over, step off, and join Bill and me as we explore Leave Your Mother on the Bus and other meandering meditations on Episode 686 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

BLOG: https://mnsales.com/leave-your-mother-on-the-bus/

Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

In our last episode we closed with a quote from Bob Nardelli, the former CEO of Home Depot: "I absolutely believe that people, unless coached, never reach their maximum capabilities." If true, we should be looking for coaching opportunities every day with the hope of finding someone who will work with on a long-term basis. But, if we don't listen and change we might find our coach has better things to do.

So, take a lap as Scott and I turn our attention to Are You Coachable? and other phlegmatic philosophies on Episode 685 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Sales isn't just about numbers—it's about sparking curiosity, creating connections, and leaving people amazed. Now, imagine a speaker who blends the precision of a teacher, the creativity of a magician, and the insight of a strategist. This isn't "just talk"—it's an experience that makes your sales message unforgettable, turning ideas into impact and audiences into believers.

Let's see if we can pull a rabbit out of the hat - as Bill and I interview magician and keynote speaker, The Amazing Hondo to discuss Magic with a Message on Episode 684 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Connect with the Amazing Hondo - CLICK HERE

Watch the Magic Trick - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqIyoHFNiHE

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Sales isn't about tricks or scripts—it's about understanding people. When you sell with empathy, clarity, and respect, you don't just win deals—you build trust, loyalty, and long-term relationships. The question is, "How do you accomplish that?"

Put on your EMPATHY hat as Scott and I discover What Buyers Really Want and other ridiculous ramblings on Episode 683 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Next Book - Aligning Strategy and Sales by Frank Cespedeshttps://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Many salespeople think they're in a test every time they meet a prospect—measured on how much they know and how perfectly they can present. But selling isn't about passing a test. It's about uncovering what matters most to the prospect. In this episode, we'll look at how shifting from "proving yourself" to "understanding them" can change the conversation—and your results.

So, listen up and keep your eyes on the road as Bill and I cram for You Are Not Being Tested and other intriguing ideas on Episode 682 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

BLOG: You Are Not Being Tested

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

How can a centuries-old art form help your organization engage employees, build teamwork, and create a culture of innovation? For decades, the techniques of improvisation, or "improv," have helped organizations do just that. Improv is more than just funny; it is fun and valuable training. If you lead teams, interact with clients or customers, or face challenges that need innovative solutions, improv skills can take you to the next level.

So, let's throw away the script as Scott and I meet with comedian and entrepreneur Stevie Ray to discuss Improv that Works: Engage *Build * Innovate on Episode 681 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Stevie Ray Improv - https://stevierays.org/

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

We don't execute on what we don't believe. Whether it's a sales process, a life change, or a new habit, our actions—or lack of them—are rooted in what we truly believe about ourselves and what's possible. In this episode, we'll explore how belief shapes behavior and how shifting what you believe - can unlock the consistent execution you need for real transformation.

Renew your membership in optimism and resilience as Bill and I discuss Belief and Execution and other noteworthy nuggets on Episode 680 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

BLOG: Making Rent – The Sales Quota Mindset

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

In sales, there's a common pattern that many professionals follow with the best intentions. They ask questions. They probe. They dig into the mechanics of a prospect's situation—what systems are they using? How much are they spending? What's not working? Next they tie the pertinent features into benefits for the prospect. But seldom do they get into the crucial questions of motivation – the WHY.

You must be motivated to tune in, so listen up as Scott and I probe, Features, Benefits and Motivation and other appealing appetizers on Episode 679 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Are you living with purpose—or just going through the motions? In today's episode, we explore how purpose shapes your work, relationships, and identity. Discover how alignment brings clarity and fulfillment, and learn practical steps to overcome fear, find direction, and start living the life you're meant to lead.

If you are open to new ideas and define yourself as "coachable" listen up as Bill, and I welcome author, speaker, and lifelong salesperson, Mitch Larson to discuss his new book, The Power of Purpose, a Guide to Discover Yours on Episode 678 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Connect with Mitch Larson on LinkedIn

Current book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Responding to a Request for Proposal (RFP) can be a powerful way to win new business—but only if it's the right opportunity. RFPs often demand considerable time, resources, and cross-functional coordination, so blindly responding to every one can lead to wasted effort, low win rates, and team burnout.

Look up your RFP win rates as Scott and I question, Should You Respond to an RFP? and other magnificent musings on Episode 677 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Episode 675 with Jason Talley - Quote vs. Proposal and RFP's

Our next book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Have you ever been torn between jumping into action or holding back to wait for the perfect moment? Today we explore the tension between taking immediate action and practicing delayed gratification. Can you really do both—and should you?

You don't have to wait another moment as Bill, and I pause to discuss Start or Wait… What Should I Do? and other sublime statistics on Episode 676 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

BLOG: Start or Wait...What should I do?

Our next book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Top 90 Sales Management Podcast - We're #3! https://www.millionpodcasts.com/sales-management-podcasts/

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Scott and I have been pouring our knowledge and experience into this podcast for over 5 years with the hope that sales professionals would be able to use this information to sell more and win at selling. And that sales leaders would be able to augment their own training with the ideas presented in our podcast. While we've spoken to many of our listeners we finally decided to let one of them share his results.

So prepare to hear an echo of your own experience as Scott and I welcome sales leader Jason Talley to examine how he is Using Podcasts to Supplement Training and other idealistic impressions on Episode 675 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Our next book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

As a salesperson - have you ever said behind your sales manager's back - I could do a much better job than they can. Be careful what you wish for. It may look more glamorous than it really is. There are some pros and cons to being a salesperson versus a sales manager than you think.

Listen up as we try to encourage and discourage a shift in your responsibilities; as Bill and I unpack Moving from Rep to Manager and other sublime statistics on Episode 674 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Our next book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Top 90 Sales Management Podcast - We're #3! https://www.millionpodcasts.com/sales-management-podcasts/

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

One of the keys to maintaining value is to be able to differentiate your product or service from the competition. While this can be difficult to do, it is necessary to keep from becoming commoditized.

Be ready for some critical thinking as Scott and I investigate The Power of Product Differentiation and other flippant philosophies on Episode 673 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Our next book – The Power of Purpose by Mitch Larsonhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Purpose-guide-discover-yours/dp/1960111280/ref=sr_1_1

Top 90 Sales Management Podcast - We're #3! https://www.millionpodcasts.com/sales-management-podcasts/

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Are you leading with purpose — or just going through the motions? What's the difference between intentional leadership and reactive management. How can you create a collaborative culture by design and not by default. Whose fault is that?

Stay tuned for an engaging conversation about "leading the way" to your personal and professional goals as Bill and I welcome speaker and author Dave Herpy to discuss Leading with Purpose and other suggestive snippets on Episode 672 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

AMAZON: Leading with Purpose Dave Herpy website

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Has it ever happened to you that you go into an appointment expecting to meet with a single person, but when you get to the conference room there are already 3 other people seated around the table? Although this can cause your stomach to turn over, it isn't really a bad thing. However, it can go south quickly if you don't adapt your strategy.

Hey kids, gather your whole team around the radio as Scott and I investigate Selling to a Group and other transcendent truths on Episode 671 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

How would increasing your word-of-mouth reputation affect your sales pipeline in the short and long term? A referral from your network is one of the most credible and cost-effective forms of marketing. For salespeople, activating and amplifying word-of-mouth can shorten your sales cycles and build trust faster than any website or email. But is this an effective form of prospecting for immediate sales results?

Let's dust off that prospecting plan from 2007 as Bill and I dive into Increasing Word-of-Mouth and other noteworthy nuggets on Episode 670 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Often when we are trying to make a sale we get totally focused on the value we can bring to the prospect and their business. Seldom do we consider the ramifications our new product or service will have for the people and their work flow. That's right; our new "whatever" is disrupting the business even as it is providing new value. In short we are talking about change and change management.

So, don't get stuck in a rut as Scott and I welcome change strategist, Jenny Niemela to discuss Integrating Change Management into Sales and other fascinating factoids on Episode 669 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Integrating Change Management into Sales - from Special Guest - Jenny Niemela

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

How do you manage conversations, remember your priorities, and accurately forecast sales—all while juggling a packed calendar? You guessed it: your CRM. But most salespeople treat their CRM like a dumping ground instead of the behavior-driving tool it should be.

So sharpen your stylus and clear your memory cache as Bill and I dive into Using Your CRM – Part 2: Managing Conversations, Priorities and other perilous projections on Episode 668 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Part ONE - Why Enter it Into The CRM

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Does your sales process advocate emailing your proposal to the prospect and then calling in a few days to see what they think? If so, YOU ARE OUT OF YOUR MIND! Whoops, got a little strident there! What I meant to say was, we think there is a better way.

So, move your had away from that SEND button as Scott and I discuss the Advantages of Interactive Delivery of a Proposal and other discerning details on Episode 667 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Link to Jimmy Z's book on Amazon.

Perspective is the particular way you view a situation based on your experiences and background. Do we all have the same perspective? I say not. Can you improve your life by changing your perspective? I say YES!

If you what to learn how, stick around as Bill and I welcome author, speaker and selling expert Jimmy Z to tell us about A Fresh Approach to the Sales Experience and other bellicose beliefs on the 3 6's Episode of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

Is it better to prospect for new customers or get more business from our current clients? I don't think one is necessarily better than the other, but it is certainly cheaper and should be easier to get business from those to whom we are already providing services. Unfortunately, those customers often get pushed off on delivery while the sales team goes hunting!

Get out you plow and let's do a little farming as Scott and I discuss Gaining Wallet Share from Current Clients and other memorable minutia on Episode 665 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/

Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com

During every election season, we see candidates rushing to define themselves in the view of their voter — before their opponent gets the chance. Why? Because the first impression often sticks. It becomes the lens through which everything is viewed. But let me ask you this: Who's defining you? Is it your customers? Your coworkers? Your critics? Or is it... you?

Call a meeting with your publicist - as Bill and I discuss Define Yourself and other precious perceptions on Episode 664 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Sales and marketing should work together closely to craft messages that engage customers and encourage them to consider a product or service. Unfortunately this is not always true! Quite often marketing is more interested in winning awards and sales doesn't pay attention to the messages that marketing is sending out. This results in confused prospects - and confuses prospects wait or say no. What's to be done?

Break out your marketing materials as Scott and I welcome B2B growth strategist and author, Pete Steege to discuss How Marketing Supports Sales and other valuable viewpoints on Episode 663 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Remember your first day on the job—full of enthusiasm, optimism, and ambition. But over time you start to become defeated and start to lose that initial drive. We start to make excuses and sell them up to leadership. Maintaining success requires a daily commitment to optimism, proactive beliefs, clear objectives, and intentional behaviors.

Management must challenge excuses and encourage accountability. Your success happens by consistently filling the sales pipeline by opening more conversations every day. It's never too late to adopt effective sales habits; shifting your mindset today can reignite your passion and dramatically transform your sales results.

Turn that frown upside down as Bill and I discuss "Who Defines the Marketplace" and other creative concepts on Episode 662 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Thank you for joining us on this SPECIAL 5th ANNIVERSARY EPISODE of the Winning at Selling Podcast. I'm Professor Scott Plum of the Minnesota Sales Institute and with me is Bill Hellkamp of REACH Development Systems

Sales managers have a tough job. Pressure from upper management to increase sales. Handling customer problems that have escalated. And most importantly, getting their sales team to get out of the office and do some real selling. It's not easy and there are plenty of frustrating issues to overcome.

So put on your Big Boy pants as Scott and I welcome Author and Sale Management Expert, Mike Weinberg to discuss The Frustrations of Sales Managers and other fantastic philosophies on Episode 661 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

5th Anniversary Highlights· 261 shows with over 130 hours of sales related content.· Over 70 guest appearances including Mike Weinberg, Frank Cespedes, Mark Hunter, Steve Keating, David Hoffeld, Anthony Iannarino, Victor Antonio and Robert Jolles · Detailed book reviews for 17 books – a total of 4178 pages· 483,603 podcast downloads. · Top 1% of all podcasts worldwide!

How many conversations can you keep track of in your head? How about with your files on your desk? What about your notebook or journal? Maybe 3? That's too low. You're not alone — I struggle with this too! How do we determine what is most important today? What do you want to be known for by our customers, clients, and colleagues? How can we reduce stress, maximize our efforts and generate more income?

Have you ever heard – "If it's not in the CRM, it never happened!" Let's talk about what others don't dare to bring up – making it a mandate that ALL activities be entered.

If you are ready for a tough conversation, join Bill and me as we scrutinize Why Enter it into the CRM? and other meaningful morsels on Episode 660 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

At the end of most proposal or quote presentations there is the chance of a negotiation breaking out. Being unprepared is not a good option and will probably prompt an unplanned reaction such as a price reduction. The professional salesperson is prepared and ready to respond, saving the sale and maintaining profitability.

You're going to have to sharpen your pencil as Scott and I discuss Top 5 Negotiating Skills for Salespeople and other concerning conundrums on Episode 659 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

We've all met a creepy salesperson. Someone who, after our conversation, makes us feel like taking a shower. They are slimy and dishonest. Self-interest oozes from every pore and every statement is taken with caution. They don't need a checkered sport coat and gold chains – they advertise their insincerity with their opening handshake. We hope this isn't you, but even the littlest move in this direction is to be avoided.

Be ready for a time of self-reflection as Scott and I discuss Don't Be a Sales Jerk and other pesky propositions on Episode 658 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Business owners often feel overwhelmed, struggling to focus on their true passions while distractions pull them away from their goals. Breaking free from this cycle is difficult alone—and finding a skilled, supportive team can be just as challenging. So, who can help?

Join Bill and me as we welcome back Peter Beaumont to explore practical strategies for silencing the inner critic and moving forward with confidence on Episode 657 of the Winning at Selling Podcast

Our perception of a situation is shaped by past experiences, judgments, beliefs, and biases. These elements mixed, each weigh differently, to form our unique perspective. No two people see reality the same way.

But is our perception of reality true? It's real—yes. No one can take away your reality. However, what's real may not always be true. This is a critical question to consider as we encounter new situations.

Join Bill and me as we debate Seven Assumptions – Which Ones to Avoid and other tantalizing tidbits on Episode 656 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

A customer calls and asks you to send them a quote. Do you do it or do you ask for an appointment to find out more about their needs? If I just send over a quote, how can I be sure that it will really address their issues? But is a full blown proposal really necessary and will it help or hurt my chances to make the sale? What's a salesperson to do!

Get ready to defend your preference, as Scott and I discuss Quote Versus Proposal and other creative concepts on Episode 655 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Peak performance isn't luck—it's a choice. Top sales professionals don't just work harder; they work smarter, optimizing their mindset, habits, and energy to consistently win. Today we will discuss science-backed strategies to stay motivated, handle rejection, and operate at your highest level. You will also discover how to manage your energy, build resilience, and implement habits that drive sales success.

Don't leave your performance to chance—level up and unlock your full potential as Bill and I interview performance expert, Scott Welle about Peak Performance for Sales Professionals on Episode 654 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

The weekly sales meeting can be an effective tool for your team or a boring waste of time. As a leader, you choose how the meeting will go and if it will have the effect you desire. But if you leave it to chance, chances are it will suck!

Grab your agendas, as Scott and I discuss The Weekly Sales Meeting and other magnificent metrics on Episode 653 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Have you ever had a misunderstanding with a prospect? They committed, signed the agreement, and you started working together—only to discover they had completely different expectations about what you'd be doing. These misunderstandings often stem from unclear conversations and clever agreements. When expectations and obligations aren't explicitly defined, it's easy to disappoint and fall short of delivering the desired outcome for both parties.

What are your expectations for this episode? Let's dive into meeting them as Bill and I explore Uncovering Prospect Expectations and other critical topics on Episode 652 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Hollywood has made clear their opinion of sales professionals. From the hard driver on Glengarry Glen Ross to the dishonest philanderers of Tin Men to the spastic incompetence of Tommy Boy. People can't help but be influenced by these depictions. But we must also recognize the part actual salespeople play in swaying opinion. Each time a salesperson acts dishonestly, he or she contributes to the negative persona of our profession.

Here's a chance to check your integrity as Scott and I welcome sales and leadership expert, Steve Keating to discuss Ethics in Selling on Episode 651 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

We've all experienced the hiring process—whether as the candidate or the future supervisor. It's a pivotal time when every piece of information and observation can significantly shape both parties' futures. Today, we're diving into one of the most crucial elements of building a successful sales team: hiring the right salesperson.

For business owners, sales managers, and recruiters alike, finding the perfect fit can mean the difference between growth, stagnation, or even misery. So, let's explore a step-by-step hiring process designed to set everyone up for success as Bill and I discuss The Hiring Process and other baffling beliefs on episode 650 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

So here we are again – a NEW YEAR. And that gives us a feeling of a new start. Perhaps you already joined a gym or set a goal to lose a few pounds. Although the January 1st date is an artificial opportunity, there's nothing wrong with using it as a time to renew ourselves. As a sales professional there are plenty of good habits that you need to be successful – are you ready to get going?

So HAPPY NEW YEAR – now get to work as Scott and I discuss, 5 Ways to Jump Start the New Year and other incredible items on Episode 649 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

We create fresh starts at different times of the year. For some, it's January 1st, for others it may be the day after Labor Day. Regardless of when, a plan and process with passion are all necessary.

Whether you're mapping out your career goals, focusing on personal growth, or chasing that fitness milestone, stay tuned as we explore common setbacks, the power of accountability, and how to stay motivated and resilient when challenged. Get ready to take your goal-setting game to the next level as Bill and I welcome sales expert Frank Gustafson to prepare for the new year by discussing, Goal Setting - and othervenerable valuables on episode 648 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

If, as a salesperson, you find yourself trying to push a prospect into making a decision, you may be wasting your time. Perhaps you should consider that the person you hope to have as a customer has their own planned agenda. And if you try to force your agenda on them, you may lose the opportunity to move forward.

So prepare to get customer centric as Scott and I discuss, How to Leverage the Buyer's Journey and other fascinating factoids on Episode 647 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

What is the goal of the first meaningful conversation with a prospect? I often ask this question and the answer I hear the most is – I need to educate them on my products, my company and myself. Really? That's the goal? I say there are other topics more important to discuss.

Stick around, take some notes and be open minded, as Bill and I investigate - Educate Them on What? and other delectable delicacies on episode 646 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Selling and compassion. Do these two concepts really fit together? Should a sales manager be a compassionate leader and do they even have that capacity? These are interesting and difficult questions.

If you want to find the answers, stay tuned as Scott and I welcome Dr. Andrea Hollingsworth award winning author to discuss, Can Compassion Fuel Sales Success? on Episode 645 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Covey stresses to begin with the end in mind. Does that apply to sales calls with prospects? You betcha. What is your plan for the first time you meet? Did you receive the outcome you wanted? What could you have done differently? What did you learn, what would you change? What would you not say? What did you forget to say?

If you like these questions and are curious about adopting this strategy, don't change the dial as Bill and I investigate Debriefing the Sales Call and other reliable realities on episode 644 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

We've all been told that people buy from people they like. So, many salespeople spend a lot of time developing a "likeable" personality. This can mean that when a customer tells them NO, they can take it as a personal rejection.

Well, put away that crying towel as Scott and I discuss What to Do When You Get a No and other quisling questions on Episode 643 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

In a post-pandemic world where people are seeking life/work balance while experiencing a "new normal," feelings of emotional labor can arise in the workplace. This can lead to symptoms of anxiety, fatigue, stress and more. If you want to learn how to reduce or eliminate these symptoms - through the power of perspective and emotional grit…

Stay tuned - as Bill and I welcome our guest, Jennifer Fernjack to discuss Ways to Address Emotional Labor in the Workplace Through Science on episode 642 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Famed psychologist William James once said, "Nothing is so fatiguing as the eternal hanging on of an uncompleted task." And that really true isn't it. We know that we should strive to get more accomplished but so often we find ourselves frustrated by an inability to get off our butts! Perhaps we just need some good advice.

Don't put this off any longer, listen in as Scott and I discuss Stop Delaying and Get Going and other substantial subjects on Episode 641 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Every sale or negotiation, someone must make the first move. Some think you should never go first, if that's the case, how do you get what you want - if you don't ask by going first. There is a way of starting off a sales conversation and negotiation by going first.

If you want to get what you want, learn how to go first as Bill and I discuss, Who Goes First? and other tantalizing tidbits on episode 640 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

How do you react when the pressure is on? When customers or your manager demand more than you are able to give? The chaos of life can move even the best of us to react rather than respond. And in today's world life can easily get out of control. What can you do?

Take a chill pill and listen in as Scott and I welcome trainer and keynote speaker Lena Scullard – as she discusses Chaos to Calm and other phenomenal philosophies on Episode 639 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

As the adage goes, "You don't have a second chance to make a first impression." Just like when you invite employees to join your team, you must onboard them the best way possible for everyone to be successful.

Let's set the bar high as Bill and me as we discuss, Successful Onboarding and other motivating material on episode 638 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

A famous quote by Albert Einstein states, "We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used to create them." According to my dad (and probably yours, "Hey kid, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." Whatever the case, as professionals we will have to deal effectively with problems to be successful.

So let's find some solutions as Scott and I examine 8 Steps for Handling Problems and other captivating concepts on Episode 637 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

As sales professionals we are inundated with "how to" selling advice. There are hundreds of sales books in print and even more sales blogs and podcasts. For example, the Winning at Selling podcast has over 200 weekly shows spanning more than 4 years. But is all of this advice useful or even true?

Decide for yourself by joining Bill and me as we welcome author and selling expert, Lee Salz the Sales Contrarian to discuss, Commonly Accepted Sales Concepts That Are Just Wrong on episode 636 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

We've all seen it. Perhaps it's the baseball pitcher who gives up 5 runs in the 2nd inning and of the sudden his arm is too sore to continue. Or maybe it's the marathon runner who sees that she is too far behind to win and suddenly comes up lame. These are examples of the loser's limp, the athlete who exaggerates an injury when they are facing defeat. Giving in to the loser's limp can destroy your ambition and so it must confronted and overcome.

Don't skulk away with a phantom hearing problem, but stay tuned as Scott and I dig into The Loser's Limp and other fascinating fact on Episode 635 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

After you deliver the best presentation possible you receive a "think it over," This happens when a prospect, instead of making a decision during a sales conversation, asks for more time to consider the offer. This response can often signal hesitation, uncertainty, or the need for more information. It can also be a polite way of avoiding a direct "no." What did you leave out? What are they dwelling on? What risk is the prospect taking when not buying today? What would you do differently if given a do over?

Think about joining Bill and I as we discuss What Are They Thinking About? and other terrific topics on episode 634 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

The great coach John Wooden said, "True leaders accept responsibility for the outcomes of their decisions and actions." And leadership expert, John Maxwell stated that, "A leader who doesn't take accountability for their actions is like a ship without a captain." While we know that accountability is important, we don't always know how to make it the cultural norm in our organizations.

So take some personal responsibility to listen as Scott and I welcome best-selling author and leadership coach, Paul Batz to discuss Building a Culture of Healthy Accountability on Episode 633 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Words represent our thoughts and intentions. Expectations and obligations are expressed through words. With a career in sales, words are the currency of commerce and the better we communicate the more successful we are in selling.

Let's start defining some expectations as Bill and I discuss 5 Words and Concepts and other memorable musings on episode 632 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

We've all had to deal with them. The sales process is going along fine until the prospect's true colors come out and you have a problem personality to contend with. Perhaps it's the person who won't make a decision or the guy who's trying to prove how smart he is, or the woman who must have the best deal in all the world. So, what do you do?

Of course you listen in as Scott and I struggle to Deal with the Toughest B2B Customers and other concerning considerations on Episode 631 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

The Top 10% of sales reps don't stop working because it's 5 p.m. or the weekend. They understand that the work they put in outside of the workday makes the difference between being at the top or being part of the other 90%. The work they put in outside of work is to sharpen their mental, physical, and spiritual game so they can perform at their best professionally. They know - to own their own income and create the life they deserve and desire, they need to be at the top of their game every day.

If you want to learn how to make this happen, stay tuned as Bill and I discuss The Work to Get to the Top - Doesn't Happen at Work and other interesting information on episode 630 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Scott and I are often asked what an employer should look for when hiring a new salesperson. So often they want to find someone with industry experience. But if there is anything they can teach them internally, it is about the industry. And everyone is used to gaining product knowledge when they get a new job. From our point of view, the hardest thing to modify is someone's character traits. But what are the traits that make up the best salespeople?

It's time for some serious introspection as Scott and I add up the Six Strengths of a Superior Salesperson to and other memorable musings on Episode 629 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

The Sales department is built on relationships and operations. Both are needed to generate the desired results. However, if your sales team fails, your organization could be in jeopardy of maintaining or growing revenues. If this is the case, leadership must identify the threats and change the sales culture.

If you want to transform your culture, create more opportunities and leverage the opportunities you create, stay tuned as Bill and I discuss the 6 Reasons Sales Departments Fail and other interesting information on episode 628 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

Artificial Intelligence is on everyone's mind. How will it affect my job? Is it being used on me? Can I get any advantage from it? For those of us in sales it the question might be, "How can I use AI to reach more prospects and win more deals?" Fortunately for you, our guest has the answers to these important questions.

So slip on your thinking caps as Scott and I welcome author, speaker and information guru Sam Richter to Episode 627 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Business Practices, Industry Knowledge and Trade Concepts are idle theories without a seasoned guide. Someone who has done it, been there and learned from past successes and failures. A guide who can identify a sharp edge, a tempting short cut or career ending move before it happens.

If you're looking for a guide and accepting applications, stay tuned as Bill and I discuss The Gift of Mentorship and other magnificent material on episode 626 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

What is going through a prospects mind during the sales conversation? Are they listening to us or is their mind on its own path? Whatever they are thinking about, it is likely that it is about themselves and not about us?

So take your eyes off of yourself as Scott and I consider, Four Questions Prospects Ask And other tantalizing tidbits on Episode 625 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

I love the saying, "be kind to others you meet, because they are all fighting battles you know nothing about." A life is sales is a life filled with adversities. Our daily goal is to overcome the distractions and convince disagreeable people.

If you want to be stronger and still standing, stay tuned as Bill and I welcome veteran, author and speaker John Kriesel to talk about Overcoming Adversity on episode 624 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.

What goes through a salesperson's mind when they deliver their quote? I'm way behind on my quota, I just have to make this sale. I know the competition is cheaper so… I'm authorized to drop the price as much as 10%, let's go for it. What they fail to understand is that they seldom need to drop their price to close the deal.

So put away that discounted proposal as Scott and I chip away at Do You Really Need to Lower Your Price? And other remarkable revelations on Episode 623 of the Winning at Selling podcast.

Do you have a daily goal? A routine you want to accomplish before leaving your office. Ever get interrupted by someone that steals your unrecoverable time? What was their goal in the disruption. Oh, it was to see if I have a positive response to their uninspiring proposal. What was the point of the proposal? Oh, that was missing.

Listen up for your new daily goal as Bill and I tell you to Stop Touching Base and other inspiring insightson episode 622 of the Winning at Selling Podcast.