Three Word Podcast Lisa Thal

Sales Meetings with Purpose. Lisa Thal is an Author, Inspirational Speaker, and Business Coach with over 37 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book Three Word Meetings. Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics that spark conversation and inspire sales teams.
 
Episode 236, How your Attitude, Discipline, and Determination can make a difference in your business, relationships, and Health!
 
I would like to ask you a question on a scale of 1-10: How is your Attitude today? What do you think about your Discipline and determination? Take the time to assess your health, relationships, and business. 
 
Looking back over the past six months, I see it has been a journey. My wife Olivia, during an endoscope, was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. For those who have not met Olivia, she is very active with Mountain Biking and hiking our Pups, eats healthy, and doesn't drink or smoke. 
 
So when the doctor came in and shared that he was sure she had Esophageal cancer, we were a bit in shock. Looking back over the past six months, I feel that what made the difference in Olivia beating cancer was her Attitude, Discipline, and Determination in this challenging situation. And the Team of doctors at the Barrett Center at the University of Cincinnati.  
 
Liv had to mentally prepare for what she was about to face physically. Rounds of Chemo, 28 days of radiations on her throat, which would make it challenging to swallow, and a significant 7-8 hour esophagectomy surgery.
 
Her Attitude was that she would fight through each situation, understanding that she would experience significant pain, but she had to keep moving forward. She was fighting for her life!
 
In addition to Liv's Attitude, I am most proud of her Discipline, whether it was how she would eat enough calories and protein in a day or even an hour when she couldn't swallow, her determination to walk our pups two miles after chemo treatments when mentally and physically challenged, or her determination to get up out of bed when in the ICU after a grueling 7-8-hour surgery. Liv is healing from surgery and is as determined as ever to return to her Mountain Bike.
 
Why am I sharing this story with you? Liv's story will inspire you to examine your health, relationships, and business. 
 
Attitude, Discipline, and determination are three words that can fuel your success, and they are all in your control. 
 
Why an Unwavering Attitude is Your Greatest Asset in Life and Business.
 
3 Tips to Unlocking Unprecedented Success:
 
 
 
Set Clear Goals and Stick to Your Plan
The first step on the path of Discipline is setting clear goals. It is where you take control of your life, defining success in concrete terms and devising a systematic plan to achieve these goals. It involves focusing and holding yourself accountable to your daily schedule and tasks, which could include making a specific number of calls, personalizing follow-ups, or enhancing product knowledge. Remember, Discipline is choosing your long-term goals over short-term comfort in challenging times. This sense of control and capability fuels your determination and drives you towards success.
 
 
Develop Consistent Habits and Routines
The power of routine is critical. Consistently following a structured day allows for efficiency and effectiveness in your sales strategy. Determination shows when you maintain client outreach, manage your CRM diligently, and practice your pitch or playbook even when leads are not converting as expected. Determination is the persistence through the mundane, trusting the process even when immediate results are not evident.
 
 
Learn, Adapt, and Overcome Setbacks
 Your Discipline and Determination can be the difference-maker during times of failure and setbacks. In sales, rejection is a common occurrence. Approach each 'no' as an opportunity to learn and refine your approach. No, it means Not Y

Sales Meetings with Purpose. Lisa Thal is an Author, Inspirational Speaker, and Business Coach with over 37 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book Three Word Meetings. Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics that spark conversation and inspire sales teams.
 
"The Power of Incremental Improvement"
 
In episode 235, of Progress Over Perfect, we explore the transformative power of small, consistent steps as we discard the unachievable pursuit of perfection in sales and life and celebrate the power of progress. 
Progress: The Game-Changer in Sales and Life
Let's consider the word Perfect. We often hear of the "perfect pitch," the "perfect sale," or the "perfect life." Yet pursuing perfection can create undue stress and unrealistic expectations. What if we shift our lens slightly, replacing one word with another that rewards effort and growth? This is where the power of progress shines through—changing just this word can immensely impact your mindset, approach to sales, and overall life.
 
The Burden of Perfection
Striving for perfection in anything from a sales strategy to personal goals operates under the assumption that we can reach a final, flawless state. However, the pursuit often leaves a trail of disheartened moments as we realize that perfection is a moving target, always out of reach. The pressure can lead to procrastination, fear of failure, and burnout.
 
Progress: A Shift in Mindset
When we replace "perfect" with "progress," we adopt a growth mindset. This subtle yet monumental shift celebrates each step we take, recognizing that improvement is not just about the destination but also about the learning process. Become a lifelong learner!
 
Here's how it works:
 
Fostering Resilience
Rejection is a common hurdle in sales. By focusing on progress, every 'no' becomes a stepping stone to refining your approach, building resilience, and adapting strategies for future opportunities. The word' no' now shifts to' not yet! '
 
Encouraging Innovation
The quest for perfection can be paralyzing and result in little growth. Progress, on the other hand, encourages experimentation and innovation. It might mean trying new techniques, tapping into unexplored markets, or personalizing sales interactions with prospective clients.
 
Re-defining Success
When success is no longer defined by a perfect outcome but by continual improvement, morale and motivation remain high. In both sales and life, celebrating little victories maintains momentum and morale, which are crucial for long-term success.
 
Building Authentic Connections
Perfection can create a façade, creating distance between sales professionals and clients. Progress breeds authenticity, allowing us to connect on a human level, share our improvements, and develop trust—critical ingredients in a successful sales relationship.
 
Learning from Mistakes
Perfection dismisses mistakes; progress learns from them. Every error in a sales pitch or personal goal is an opportunity to learn valuable lessons that will shape future strategies and actions.
 
Maintaining Balance
Striving for progress allows for a balanced approach to work and life. Understanding that there will always be room for improvement helps alleviate the pressure to be perfect in everything, thus supporting a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
 
Applying Progress in Real Life
Here are some practical ways you can integrate the concept of progress into your daily routine:
Set realistic goals that are achievable and measurable. Celebrate when you meet these goals, however small. Goals that stretch you to learn and grow.
Practice reflection after sales calls or at the end of the day, identifying what worked and could be improved.
Develop a learning plan to enhance skills crucial to your sales and personal development growth.
Cultivate a supportive environment by sharing your progress with others and encoura

Create Sales meeting topics in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Inspirational Speaker, and Business Coach with over 37 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book Three Word Meetings.  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics that will spark conversation and inspire their sales team.
 
Are you feeling a bit Stressed?  You are not alone!  The top stressors in life are events that involve loss, change, or trauma. Some of the most stressful life events are:
Death of a loved one
Divorce or separation
Moving, buying, or selling a home
Major illness or injury
Job loss
 
Episode 234,  I share how 7 Effective Strategies and tips to help you Manage the Daily Stress.
 
The Stress you experience may be short or long-term. Either way, we have to find a way to manage it. Why? Countless studies have proven the impact Stress has on us emotionally and physically. 
7 Effective Strategies for Managing Daily Stress
Stress is an inevitable part of life. However, managing Stress is essential for maintaining mental and physical health. Practical stress management techniques can transform your daily routine and help you handle life's challenges more easily. 
 
Here are seven strategies to help you make progress in managing your daily Stress:
 
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool for calming the mind and reducing Stress. It involves focusing on the present moment and accepting it without judgment.
 
Tip: Start with a few minutes of meditation daily, using guided sessions if you're a beginner.
 
Regular Physical Activity
Exercise benefits your physical health and helps to release pent-up Stress and tension. It would help if you had an outlet to release the Stress.
 
Tip: Incorporate activities you enjoy, such as walking, yoga, or dancing, into your daily routine.
 
Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine
Quality sleep is crucial for stress management. Lack of sleep can exacerbate Stress, creating a vicious cycle. It includes your screen time on your phone.  
 
Tip: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
 
Develop Time-Management Skills
Mismanaged time can lead to a buildup of Stress. Proper planning and organization can create a smoother daily flow.
 
Tip: Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and delegate when necessary. Learn to say no to things that are not a priority to you.
 
Build a Support Network
Having a solid support system can provide a buffer against Stress. Sharing your concerns with friends or family can be cathartic.
 
Tip: Cultivate positive and supportive relationships, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Most companies have free Mental Wellness experts available.
 
Engage in Relaxation Techniques
Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization can help calm your mind and reduce Stress.
 
Tip: Set aside time for relaxation each day, even just taking a few deep breaths. When feeling stressed, inhale and exhale.
 
Limit Stimulants and Distractors
Caffeine and screen time, especially before bed, can increase stress levels and interfere with sleep.
 
Tip: Reduce caffeine consumption and set a "technology curfew" an hour before bed.
 
Deciding to fuel your body with nutritious food, avoiding procrastination, and finding time for hobbies and entertainment can help you manage Stress better. Remember, stress management is a continuous process; building these habits takes time and dedication. Start with small changes and gradually integrate more strategies as you become more comfortable. Just start!
 
These stress-reduction strategies can significantly improve your overall well-being and quality of life. Remember that seeking professional assistance is okay if your Stress feels overwhelming. Support from a therapist, counselor, or life coach can provide personalized guidance on managing

Create Sales meeting topics in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author,  Inspirational Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 37 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.
 
Episode 233: One Key to Creating More Luck in Sales!
 
There is one thing that top performers do better than their competitors to create more Luck,  they Focus!
 
Focus: The One Key to Creating More Luck in Sales
 
In sales, where every strategy and technique claims to be the beacon of success, one underlying principle significantly increases your chances of converting that big client—Focus. If you're in sales, marketing, or entrepreneurship, you're no stranger to the pursuit of Luck and the desire to secure that big win. 
 
 
But does it just come down to Luck? Or is there something more within your control that can lead to consistent sales success? Focus is the answer, and I will show you why and how to harness it to tip the scales in your favor.
 
Why Focus?
The common misconception is that Luck in sales is just a byproduct of playing the numbers game. But ask any seasoned sales professional, marketing executive, or successful entrepreneur—they will tell you that their 'lucky streak' is often a direct result of razor-sharp Focus. It starts with understanding your market, knowing your product inside and out, personalizing your approach, and listening to your clients. 
 
When you channel your energy into these focused efforts, you carve out a path where opportunities will likely land in your lap. Call it Luck or call it strategy; the results are undeniable.
 
How do you cultivate Focus in your sales efforts? It begins with focusing on the right activities. Please look at your calendar for this week and count the number of new client meetings, followed by the number of meetings with your current clients. If you're unhappy with that number, you have to focus your efforts and time on scheduling more discovery calls.
 
What can you do to create more Focus?
 
Identify and Understand Your Target Audience
Research who benefits the most from your product. Many of us are calling on new clients who don't have the resources or are not fit for your product or service. Let's eliminate those prospects from our Focus. Identify the prospects who fit your ideal customer. Tailor your sales solutions to address your prospective clients' needs and pain points. 
 
Educate Yourself on Every Aspect of Your Product or Service
A deep knowledge of what you're selling instills confidence in your prospects and positions you as an expert. Customers are more inclined to trust and buy from someone who can articulate the benefits of their offering.
 
Prioritize Your Day
Each morning, review your day. Make sure most of your time is spent meeting new prospects, meeting with current clients, or seeking introductions from your current clients or your network of friends.
 
Be Persistent and Consistent
Success in sales usually takes time. Only 5-15% of prospects we call on today may need our product or service. We maintain regular contact with prospects, follow up diligently, and stay consistent. Persistence fuels Luck by keeping you top-of-mind when a customer is ready to decide.
 
Learn and Adapt from Each Interaction
After each sale or missed opportunity, evaluate what worked and what didn't. Use this information to refine your approach. Over time, these incremental changes can significantly improve your sales luck.
 
Creating more Luck in sales is less about chance and more about strategic Focus. You can generate your own Luck by defining and immersing yourself in your target audience, becoming an expert on your product, and systematically pursuing your sales goals. 
 
The diligent preparation, unwavering dedication to your craft, and intelligent allocation

Create Sales meeting topics in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Inspirational Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 37 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches' leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.
 
Episode 232 - A new perspective to solving your problems! 
 
"Houston, we have a problem" from the movie Apollo 13 has become iconic, often used to describe unexpected issues or challenges. 
 
Let me ask you a question. When you face a challenge or problem, what process do you walk through to solve it? We all have to solve problems in life – but very few of us have a method for doing so. We look at the situation and offer one or two solutions. I will share a technique I learned that you could use for group discussion and individual reflection—an exercise you can use at any time to enhance your problem-solving and help you make decisions quickly.
 
 
I learned this technique from Edward de Bono, a Maltese physician, author, inventor, and consultant. He is best known for originating lateral thinking and writing many books on thinking, including The Six Thinking Hats. He dedicated his life to helping people improve their thinking abilities and creativity skills to solve problems.
 
 
De Bono's Six Thinking Hats is a powerful technique for looking at decision-making from different perspectives. It involves six distinct types of thinking, which you can do on your own or with your team. 
A different hat represents each thinking style:
 
To solve a problem well, we must look at it from several perspectives.
 
Think about one problem or challenge you may be facing, write it down, and let's walk through the process together.
 
There is Power of Thinking Differently
 
THE 6 THINKING HATS
Edward De Bono developed the 6 Thinking Hats tool to help you look at a problem from 6 different perspectives.
When making decisions, many people are overwhelmed by information, and this technique allows you to consider just one perspective at a time.
Pick a problem or decision you need to make and apply the technique. Start by imagining you have six hats in front of you. Imagine you are putting on one hat at a time.
 
THE WHITE HAT IS THE HAT OF LOGIC
When you wear the white hat, ask yourself: what information or data is available? What are the facts? How can I look at this objectively?
To remember the white hat as logical, imagine a scientist or doctor gathering information in a white coat.
 
THE RED HAT IS THE HAT OF EMOTION
When you wear the red hat, ask yourself how you feel. What emotions come up? What is my intuition or gut telling me?
Imagine a heart to remember the red hat as the feelings and emotions.
 
THE BLACK HAT IS THE CRITIC
When you wear the black hat, ask yourself: what could go wrong? What are the downsides? Why won't this work? 
Imagine a judge's robes to remember the black hat as the critic.
 
THE YELLOW HAT IS THE HAT OF OPTIMISM
When you wear the yellow hat, ask yourself: what could go right? What are the benefits? What is the upside? What are all the opportunities?
To remember the yellow hat as the optimist, imagine the sun.
 
THE GREEN HAT IS THE HAT OF CREATIVITY
When you wear the green hat, ask yourself: how can I be creative? What are the possibilities? What other options and innovative solutions are available? Could I consider something else?
To remember the green hat as the creative one, imagine green grass growing.
 
THE BLUE HAT IS THE MANAGER
When you wear the blue hat, listen to the other options - six hats, think about the big picture, and decide.
To remember the blue hat as the manager, think about the sky.
 
You should think about your problem and walk through this process.
 
We all face problems personally and professionally, and now you have a process to help you make the best decision after looking at six differe

Create Sales meeting topics in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author,  Inspirational Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 37 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.
 
Episode 231:  Learn a 3 Step process to convert a lead into a customer.
 
There is something that a prospect wants from us before becoming a client.  Our knowledge to help them solve their problems faster!
 
Give clients what they want! What do they expect from us? Knowledge. They are looking for solutions to their challenges. We are problem solvers. The question is, what is the best way to help solve their problems? Educate them on the solutions available to them.  We have to add more value than our competitors!
 
Staying ahead of the curve means being an expert in your Industry and leveraging the tools you have to help prospects solve problems. Content has become a critical asset for sales teams across industries in our ever-evolving digital era. Sales professionals increasingly recognize content's pivotal role in their processes—a role that extends beyond price to cultivating and supporting customer relationships.
 
Educating Leads: Fuel for the Sales Funnel
Education lies at the heart of successful sales strategies. When your leads are well-informed, they are more likely to trust your expertise, value your offering, and, ultimately, make a confident purchasing decision. Here's how education and sharing information with them can serve as a powerful conduit in your sales funnel:
 
Stage 1: Awareness – Attracting Potential Customers
In this stage, your content must answer the basic questions prospects have. By sharing information that addresses common pain points, introduces new insights, or explains industry trends, you set the groundwork for a relationship built on knowledge sharing.
 
Example Article Topics for the Awareness Stage:
"5 Signs You Need Our Sales Solution"
"The 2023 Guide to Advancing Your Sales Techniques"
"Why Understanding Your Prospects' Needs Matters"
 
Stage 2: Consideration – Positioning Your Solution
As prospects move deeper into the funnel, your educational content should now focus on showcasing how your products or services solve specific problems or improve upon existing solutions. How are you solving other clients' challenges that you can share with them? People remember stories along with data to show proof of performance.
 
Example Article Topics for the Consideration Stage:
"How Our Sales Solution Integrates with Your Current Workflow"
 
Stage 3: Decision – Providing Reassurance
At this stage, prospects are close to making a purchase decision. Your information should reinforce the decision by highlighting success stories, customer testimonials, and detailed product benefits.
 
Sealing the Deal with Persuasive Content
The power of educational content is not just in informing—it's also about persuasion. Content can clinch the deal by elegantly illustrating the value proposition.
 
Here's what makes content not only informative but also persuasive:
Relevance: Tailored content that addresses each lead's unique needs and interests.
Authenticity: Genuine articles from experience and actual results, not just promotional fluff.
Utility: Useful tips and actionable advice that readers can immediately apply, demonstrating potential ROI.
Engagement: Compelling narratives that absorb the reader, encouraging them to move through the sales funnel.
Evidence: Solid data, studies, testimonials, and real-world examples that validate your claims.
 
By integrating educational and persuasive content into your sales strategies, you're not merely selling a service or product but offering value, insight, and a partnership. The right content can turn a lead into a lifelong customer, as it stands at the intersection