Sales Today

Fred Copestake
Sales Today

‘What a time to be in sales’ People say this various times in many different ways – excited, exasperated, worried, pessimistic, optimistic, happy, sad, confused – the whole range of human emotions. This is an exciting time to be in sales, if you are selling B2B complex solutions. It’s a time when you can bring huge value to your customers; it’s a time to thrive. But you need to know how, as it is a time unlike any before. The rules have changed and as a sales professional you can have a hand in redefining how the game is played. Challenges salespeople face are: · ‘Busy Busy Busy’ – being ineffective; it results in wasted opportunities, is tiring and stressful and means the focus is on the wrong activities to deliver results · ‘Olde Worlde’ – being old-fashioned; when salespeople are self-centred rather than customer-focused, too technical in their approach or use bad techniques better suited to a bygone era of selling · ‘Muddled Mindset’ – being misaligned; it can happen at organisation, management and individual level and the confusion leads to frustration and wasted effort. By using a more collaborative approach salespeople can make a difference and sales can become a force for good and fight against the negative image it can often be associated with. The Sales Today podcast explores how sales professionals can adapt and futureproof themselves by using the best practice shared by host Fred Copestake and the guests of the show. What a time to be in sales! Host Fred Copestake is Founder of Brindis, a sales training consultancy, and bestselling author of 'Selling Through Partnering Skills' and 'Hybrid Selling'. Connect with Fred on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. www.linktr.ee/fredcopestake

  1. 9 HR AGO

    Ethical selling: Partnering with procurement

    Luke Tomlinson, Category Manager at MS3, joins me for a captivating conversation on the transformative power of procurement.   We unravel the outdated notion of procurement as just a back-office function and spotlight its potential to be a driving force for business value.   With a focus on ESG, risk management, and supply diversification, we discuss how procurement, when collaborating with sales teams, can transcend simple cost management to become a cornerstone of business innovation and success.   Understanding the buying journey is no longer optional but essential for both sales and procurement professionals.   We look into the importance of early engagement in the sales process, emphasising how this alignment can lead to more effective decision-making and streamlined operations.   By balancing the art of being right with the necessity of being liked, procurement professionals can reshape their roles, gaining respect and influence within their organisations.   Through learning from salespeople, procurement can enhance its effectiveness, contributing to a more harmonious and productive business environment.   We also explore the nuanced relationship between transactional and strategic supplier partnerships and the vital role of personal connections and trust in developing strategic partnerships.   This episode offers a wealth of knowledge on modern sales techniques and how procurement can leverage these insights to create mutually beneficial relationships with sales teams.   -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------   (0:00:00) - Collaboration in Procurement and Sales Procurement's evolving role involves collaboration with sales to create value beyond cost management.   (0:13:54) - Building Relationships Between Sales and Procurement Understanding the buying journey, aligning with procurement, changing perceptions, and collaborating effectively for smoother sales processes.   (0:22:25) - Strategic Partnerships in Procurement Transactional vs. strategic supplier relationships, importance of personal connections, and creating value beyond cost considerations in procurement.   (0:31:09) - Understanding RFPS in Procurement and Sales Nature's RFPs: Invitations, winning potential, buyer's stage, early involvement, due diligence, aligning with client's needs and procurement processes. websites, and fun and educational content.   Connect with Luke:   Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard https://collaborativeselling.scoreapp.com/   Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/wu4IH5aLkac

    39 min
  2. 3 OCT

    Ethical selling: Why selling should feel good

    What if your sales strategy could genuinely benefit your customers while meeting company goals?   Zac Thompson and Jack Frimston founders at WHAM (We Have A Meeting) uncover how ethical sales practices can reshape the industry.   We kick things off by challenging traditional, often manipulative sales methods and discussing how a buyer-centric approach prioritises the customer’s needs over mere deal closures.   They share their vision of a sales world driven by intent and collaboration, not coercion, and the ethical dilemmas that arise from company targets and shareholder pressures.   Have you ever considered the ethical implications of control in sales?   This episode addresses the importance of granting potential customers the freedom to say no and how this can foster trust and honesty in the sales process.   We break down the psychological factors at play, such as the brain's biases and need for equilibrium, and why respecting these elements is essential for ethical sales.   Learn about the concept of "mini contracts" that align with the customer's buying journey, ensuring they never feel pressured or manipulated, creating a more honest and collaborative sales environment.   Imagine if effective communication and emotional intelligence were taught in schools.   Zac introduces this revolutionary idea, inspired by Julian Treasure, advocating for communication and social skills training in education.   Jack highlights the often-overlooked skill of listening, highlighting the importance of being present and empathetic in every interaction.   Tune in for valuable resources and engaging content, and don't forget to subscribe and take the free collaborative selling scorecard to evaluate your sales approach in today's market!.     -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS --------   (0:00:00) - Ethical Sales Ethical sales prioritise helping clients over closing deals, with a buyer-centric approach and consideration of company targets and shareholder pressures.   (0:11:35) - Control and Influence in Sales Control in sales process, ethical implications, respecting psychological factors, regular checkpoints, ethical influence over manipulation, building trust and integrity.   (0:24:15) - Effective Communication and Emotional Intelligence Communication and social skills, including listening and EQ, should be taught in schools and training programs.   (0:31:21) - Sales Consultancy and Connection Platforms Nature's consultancy work with WHAM, engaging LinkedIn content, resources on websites, and fun and educational content.   Connect with Jack: www.linkedin.com/in/jack-frimston-5010177b/ Connect with Zac: www.linkedin.com/in/zac-thompson-33a9a39b/ Website:  www.wehaveameeting.com Website: www.asalesconsultancy.com   Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard https://collaborativeselling.scoreapp.com/   Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/Pw39pCyizIw

    33 min
  3. 26 SEPT

    Ethical selling: Understanding what people value and will pay for

    Join us on this episode with guest, Adam Wallace, author of '(Re)Value', as we uncover the hidden psychology of selling expertise across different industries.   Adam sheds light on the critical importance of identifying problems your clients might not even recognise they have, expanding your conversations and avoiding the common trap of rushing to solutions.   Learn how understanding where people spend their time and money can reveal their authentic motivations, providing a roadmap to more impactful sales strategies.   Ever wondered how focusing on just 75 customers could skyrocket your portfolio from 3 million to 20 million?   Adam breaks down the power of targeting micro niche markets and how laser-focused attention on a select customer group can create trust and compelling solutions.   We also discuss why transparency and honesty are not just ethical obligations but strategic necessities for optimising resources and delivering unparalleled value.   Discover how articulating the unique challenges of your niche can make your business irresistibly magnetic to potential customers.   We also tackle the complexities of modern sales, from the art of "tactical empathy" to mastering the crucial handoff from sales to delivery.   Adam reveals how to connect deeply with buyers by truly understanding their perspectives and ensuring that promises made during sales translate seamlessly into delivery.   And don't miss our exploration of untapped market value, focusing on the profitable yet often-neglected grumpy customers.   Learn practical strategies for uncovering hidden opportunities that can lead to better margins and more successful business outcomes.   -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------   (0:00:00) - Understanding Customer Value in Sales Psychology of selling, identifying problems, understanding value, human drive for better outcomes.   (0:13:23) - Niche Marketing and Sales Strategy Targeting a micro niche market, understanding unique problems, and ethical selling can grow a portfolio from 3 to 20 million.   (0:18:25) - Sales Strategy and Customer Value Understanding Understanding buyer relevance and tactical empathy in modern sales, emphasising handoff to delivery for consistent outcomes.   (0:28:16) - Unlocking Untapped Market Value in Sales The dynamics of customer segmentation, valuing grumpy high-paying customers, and shifting focus for better business outcomes.   Connect with Adam Website: Buy Adam’s book – (Re)Value:   Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard https://collaborativeselling.scoreapp.com/   Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/qr0tJhPdfIQ

    34 min
  4. 19 SEPT

    Engineering sales: Get hired and win more business

    What happens when sales meets engineering in the packaging and warehouse automation industry?   George Brown, an executive recruiter specialising in this niche sector, joins me to reveal the unique qualities that make sales professionals successful in such a technically demanding field.   We explore why an engineering background is essential, equipping sales experts with the technical know-how to address complex client pain points and build credibility.   Ever wondered how engineers transition to sales roles within large-scale projects?   We discuss the common career progression from engineering to customer-facing positions, the challenges engineers face in this shift, and the importance of acquiring sales skills.   George shares how bridging the communication gap between sales teams and engineers can lead to more effective collaborations and ultimately, successful sales.   Building a winning sales team is no small feat. Using football analogies, we dissect the roles and responsibilities within a business unit, highlighting the significance of teamwork in achieving project goals.   George also shares invaluable tips on identifying key characteristics for sales success, such as technical expertise, a robust professional network, and confidence.   Tune in for practical advice and personal experiences that will enhance your approach to sales and help you secure your next big opportunity.     -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------   (0:00:00) - The Relationship Between Sales and Engineering Successful salespeople in packaging and warehouse automation need engineering background to understand and solve client pain points.   (0:08:18) - Transitioning From Engineering to Sales Engineers often transition to sales roles without formal training, creating a gap in pitching solutions effectively.   (0:13:15) - Sales and Engineering Communication Gap Sales teams and engineers face challenges in large-scale projects due to gaps between sales expertise and technical knowledge, emphasising the importance of teamwork and collaboration.   (0:18:49) - Building Successful Sales Teams Teamwork and understanding roles are crucial for project success, with engineers as defenders and salespeople as strikers.   (0:27:00) - Identifying Key Characteristics for Sales Success Game plan, technical expertise, networking, and confidence are crucial for success in engineering sales.   Connect with George LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-brown678/ Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard https://collaborativeselling.scoreapp.com/   Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/3aceUkoxWf0

    34 min
  5. 12 SEPT

    Engineering sales: Square pegs in round holes?

    The belief that relationships drive sales in the engineering industry is outdated.   Tune in to hear Mark Rathore discuss a modern approach to engineering sales, where laser-focused problem-solving and leveraging past successes for credibility take centre stage.   We share insights on how advancements in transportation, automotive, and renewable energy are not only transforming industries but also improving human lives.   Plus, we’ll touch upon the concept of "flattening the curve" in engineering sales and how engineers can capitalise on their problem-solving skills to excel in marketing their innovations.   Understanding revenue distribution and client management is crucial for engineering and manufacturing businesses.   This episode illuminates how visualising revenue spread through graphs can uncover that a large portion of revenue often comes from a small set of clients.   We address the balancing act of maintaining loyalty to long-term clients while attracting higher-value prospects.   We also examine the common pitfalls businesses face after initial growth and offer strategies to sustain momentum and mitigate risks, ensuring the longevity of their success.     Finally, we discuss the importance of emotional drivers in motivating small businesses to grow beyond their comfort zones and share personal anecdotes on how fear of losing their current lifestyle can spur engineers into action.   -------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH KEY POINTS ---------   (0:00:00) - Modern Engineering Sales Approach Engineering sales are driven by problem-solving, credibility, and urgency, with a focus on advancements in transportation, automotive, and renewable energy.   (0:05:55) - Scale Strategies for Growing Businesses Visualising revenue spread and client spend, balancing loyalty and growth, and reaching initial milestones in engineering and manufacturing businesses.   (0:15:03) - Scaling Success Through Pipeline Management Comfortable lifestyle can hinder growth in small businesses, but fear of losing it can drive change.   (0:24:50) - Revolutionising Engineering Sales Techniques Engineers with technical expertise and successful project histories face unique challenges when thrust into sales roles, but can leverage their problem-solving abilities to excel.   Connect with Mark LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrathore/ Watch Mark’s Bell Curve Video:  https://www.paage.io/c3vulll   Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard https://collaborativeselling.scoreapp.com/   Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/Mu2DzZWkCHE

    37 min
  6. 5 SEPT

    Engineering sales: How 'engineering superego' limits sales growth

    Have you ever wondered why engineers, despite their technical brilliance, often find sales so challenging?   Join me and special guest, Mark Rathore, a chemical engineer who transitioned into a sales expert as he takes us through his intriguing journey from technical roles to mastering business interactions.    You'll gain insights into the distinct neural pathways that separate engineers from salespeople and understand why engineers, despite their deep technical knowledge, often find sales challenging..   We also explore the uncomfortable but essential process of sales training and personal development.   Mark introduces the concept of "absorption latency," illustrating how new skills need time to take root, especially for methodical thinkers like engineers and architects.   Through analogies like switching the hand you wear your watch on, Mark addresses the need for persistence through discomfort to achieve meaningful growth.   We also celebrate the increasing presence of women in sales roles, adding a rich layer of diversity and strength to the industry.   Finally, we look into the psychological hurdles and limiting beliefs that engineers often face when transitioning to sales.   Mark shares his experiences and strategies on overcoming these barriers, highlighting the importance of practice and repetition.   This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to bridge the gap between technical expertise and sales success.   --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH KEY POINTS ---------   (0:00:00) - Engineering Sales Brain Circuitry Theory Engineers struggle with sales due to differences in brain circuitry, explored through anecdotes and theories by a chemical engineer.   (0:13:49) - Navigating Sales Training and Absorption Latency Embracing the unknown in sales training and personal development, absorption latency, diversity of women in the industry.   (0:17:06) - Overcoming Engineering Mindset in Sales Highly competent professionals face challenges transitioning to sales, including ego barriers and limiting beliefs, requiring practice and coaching for growth.   (0:23:03) - Navigating Mental Absorption in Sales Effective training, absorption latency, counterintuitive approach, self-awareness in thinking processes, sales and business development roles.   (0:27:04) - Engineering Mindset in Sales Resistance Technical professionals struggle in sales roles due to lack of expertise, leading to internal conflict and misinterpretations of conversion rates.   (0:32:35) - Understanding Conversion Rates in Sales Nature's conversion rates are often overestimated, highlighting the importance of accurate data and thorough sales planning and strategy.   Connect with Mark LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrathore/   Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard https://collaborativeselling.scoreapp.com/   Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/mDo-8xhnTvI

    42 min
  7. 29 AUG

    Are leaders born or trained?

    What happens when high-performing salespeople are thrust into leadership roles without formal training?   Join me on this episode where I am joined by Richard Cogswell, the author of "The Cultural Sales Leader," as we uncover the reality behind this common industry practice.   Richard shares the crucial elements of successful sales leadership, including the importance of structured training and the pitfalls of jumping into leadership unprepared.   We explore strategies for creating cohesive sales plans that align with both financial goals and customer needs.   Plus, Richard introduces the concept of servant leadership, showing how empathy and strategic thinking can drive exceptional team performance.   We also address the critical process of diagnosing issues quickly and empowering team members to excel.   Richard provides compelling real-life examples, such as a dramatic turnaround in Singapore, to illustrate these principles.   Don’t miss our discussion on the essential components of first-time leadership training that can set up new managers for success.   Make sure to connect with Richard on LinkedIn for more of his expert insights, and subscribe to the Sales Today podcast to stay ahead in your sales career.     --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH KEY POINTS ---------   (0:00:00) - Leadership Learning in Sales Leadership is a learned skill, often overlooked in sales, highlighted by author Richard Cogswell's book on structured training for first-time managers.   (0:13:51) - Effective Leadership in Sales Team Transitioning into leadership roles without training, lack of go-to-market plans, servant leadership, and supporting newly promoted leaders.   (0:23:43) - Developing First-Time Sales Leaders Servant leadership, flexibility, empathy, diagnosing issues, aligning values, positive work environment, management training for first-time leaders.   Follow Richard LinkedIn:   Website: Get Richard’s Book:   Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard   Watch this episode on YouTube

    36 min
  8. 22 AUG

    Personal branding - reputation enhancement from SDR to CEO

    What if your personal brand could speak volumes even when you're not around?   Join me as I welcome Neil Bhuiyan, the visionary founder of Happy Selling, to reveal the secrets of building an impactful personal brand in the digital age.   Neil shares his expert insights on the pivotal role of Sales Development Representatives (SDRs), breaking down their responsibilities in both inbound and outbound capacities and highlighting their critical importance in driving a successful sales pipeline.   We also tackle the tricky terrain of maintaining authenticity while crafting content on platforms like LinkedIn.   From the mental health impacts of seeking social media validation to the power of sharing genuine personal stories, we explore how salespeople can humanise their brand without losing sight of customer needs.   Neil's "happy selling" philosophy offers a refreshing take on making sales fun and engaging, providing practical strategies and varied content ideas to keep your social media posts fresh and captivating.   Tune in to elevate your personal brand and sales approach.   --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH KEY POINTS --------- (0:00:00) - Personal Branding for Salespeople (0:10:38) - Balancing Personal Branding With Authenticity (0:21:29) - Strategies for Engaging Sales Content   Follow Neil LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilbhuiyan/ Website: https://www.happyselling.io/     Follow me https://linktr.ee/fredcopestake   Take the  Collaborative Selling Scorecard https://collaborativeselling.scoreapp.com/   Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/STruzxUfOac

    34 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

‘What a time to be in sales’ People say this various times in many different ways – excited, exasperated, worried, pessimistic, optimistic, happy, sad, confused – the whole range of human emotions. This is an exciting time to be in sales, if you are selling B2B complex solutions. It’s a time when you can bring huge value to your customers; it’s a time to thrive. But you need to know how, as it is a time unlike any before. The rules have changed and as a sales professional you can have a hand in redefining how the game is played. Challenges salespeople face are: · ‘Busy Busy Busy’ – being ineffective; it results in wasted opportunities, is tiring and stressful and means the focus is on the wrong activities to deliver results · ‘Olde Worlde’ – being old-fashioned; when salespeople are self-centred rather than customer-focused, too technical in their approach or use bad techniques better suited to a bygone era of selling · ‘Muddled Mindset’ – being misaligned; it can happen at organisation, management and individual level and the confusion leads to frustration and wasted effort. By using a more collaborative approach salespeople can make a difference and sales can become a force for good and fight against the negative image it can often be associated with. The Sales Today podcast explores how sales professionals can adapt and futureproof themselves by using the best practice shared by host Fred Copestake and the guests of the show. What a time to be in sales! Host Fred Copestake is Founder of Brindis, a sales training consultancy, and bestselling author of 'Selling Through Partnering Skills' and 'Hybrid Selling'. Connect with Fred on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. www.linktr.ee/fredcopestake

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