Why Business Leaders Need to Get Off their Thrones

In the dynamic landscape of businesses, the role of leaders has evolved beyond simply occupying thrones of authority. To truly drive a culture of excellence, business leaders must step down from their pedestals and actively engage with their teams. In this blog post, we'll explore three actionable strategies to foster a high-performing culture: taking the temperature of the organization, sharing a meal with employees, and delivering $100 high fives.

Great leaders understand the pulse of their organizations. Taking the temperature involves actively seeking feedback, gauging employee morale, and understanding the collective heartbeat of the workplace. It's about creating channels for open communication where employees feel heard, valued, and encouraged to share their thoughts.  When you walk into an organization such as “Ramsey Solutions” you feel the energy and that is partly because the CEO walks around talking to the employees to know where there are potential pitfalls in the organization to be addressed.

Eating lunch with employees might seem like a small gesture, but its impact on organizational culture is profound. Sharing a meal breaks down hierarchical barriers and creates a relaxed setting for genuine conversations. It humanizes leaders and reinforces the idea that everyone is part of the same team.

Leaders who make an effort to join their teams for lunch not only gain insights into the daily experiences of their employees but also demonstrate a commitment to building a cohesive and inclusive workplace. Breaking bread fosters camaraderie, strengthens relationships, and contributes to a positive work culture that extends beyond the boardroom.

In a high-performing culture, recognition is currency. However, it's not just about patting someone on the back; it's about celebrating successes in a meaningful and memorable way. Enter the concept of $100 high fives—recognizing exceptional efforts with a symbolic and tangible reward.

This gesture goes beyond traditional recognition programs. It's about creating a culture where accomplishments, no matter how small, are celebrated openly and with enthusiasm. The monetary value is less important than the act itself, as it sends a powerful message that hard work and dedication are not only noticed but also valued.

To drive a high-performing culture, business leaders must dismantle the traditional barriers that separate them from their teams. Getting off thrones and actively engaging with employees is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of strong leadership. Taking the temperature of the organization, sharing meals with employees, and implementing innovative recognition strategies like $100 high fives are actionable steps that can transform a workplace culture.

As leaders embrace these approaches, they not only contribute to a more vibrant and collaborative work environment but also inspire their teams to reach new heights of performance and success. After all, a great culture begins with leaders who are willing to step down, connect authentically, and champion the extraordinary efforts of their teams.

Have a great week!

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

Company Culture And Why We May Get It Wrong?

In modern workplaces, the concept of company culture has become a buzzword, an elusive ideal that organizations strive to achieve. However, despite good intentions, many companies find themselves grappling with a company culture conundrum. Why do we often get it wrong? This blog post explores some common pitfalls, including the challenges of creating inclusive environments, the impact of affinity groups, and the consequences of hasty hiring practices.

At the core of any successful company culture lies the fundamental human need to be known and heard. Employees crave recognition and understanding, not just as cogs in a machine but as individuals with unique perspectives, experiences, and aspirations. Fostering an environment where everyone feels seen and heard is crucial for building a positive and inclusive culture.

While setting up groups such as LGBTQ, women's networks, or other affinity groups can be a positive step toward fostering inclusivity, it's essential to tread carefully. These groups, while beneficial for providing support and a sense of community, can unintentionally create divisions. Employees who do not identify with these specific groups may feel alienated, leading to a fractured rather than cohesive company culture.

Striking the right balance involves acknowledging and celebrating diversity without inadvertently excluding or marginalizing individuals who don't fall within the defined categories. Encouraging open dialogue and creating opportunities for cross-functional collaboration can help bridge the gap and build a more inclusive culture.

Another common stumbling block in cultivating a healthy company culture is the haste with which organizations approach hiring. In the race to fill vacant positions quickly, companies may overlook the importance of finding candidates who align not only with the job requirements but also with the organization's values and cultural focus.

Hiring too fast can result in a cultural mismatch, where new hires struggle to fit into the existing work environment. This can lead to a disjointed company culture, decreased employee morale, and ultimately, high turnover rates. Taking the time to evaluate cultural fit during the hiring process can pay dividends in the long run, contributing to a more sustainable company culture.

Company culture is a delicate ecosystem that requires thoughtful cultivation and continuous refinement. To avoid the pitfalls that often accompany the quest for a positive workplace culture, organizations must prioritize the human element. Recognizing the importance of individuals feeling known and heard, navigating the challenges of affinity groups with care, and adopting a deliberate approach to hiring are key steps toward building a company culture that stands the test of time. In the pursuit of a thriving workplace culture, let's shift our focus from speed to intentionality and from exclusion to genuine inclusivity.  People need to feel valued and taking time to get the correct people, making sure everyone feels connected, and that the leadership cares is crucial for a sustainable culture.

Have a great week!

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

Boost Employee Engagement

Employee engagement is a vital factor in fostering a motivated and productive workforce. When employees feel valued, connected to the company's mission, and appreciated for their contributions, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work. In this blog post, we will explore four key strategies for boosting employee engagement: valuing others through active listening, connecting their role to serving the customer, promoting work-life balance, and offering occasional special incentives rather than constant rewards. By implementing these practices, you can create an environment that empowers your team and drives their overall engagement and satisfaction.

Valuing Others through Active Listening: One of the most powerful ways to boost employee engagement is by valuing others through active listening. This involves genuinely seeking and considering your employees' ideas, feedback, and concerns. By actively listening, you show respect for their perspectives and demonstrate that their input matters. This practice not only encourages open communication but also fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment among your team members. When employees feel heard and valued, they become more invested in their work and are motivated to contribute their best ideas and efforts.

Connecting Their Role to Serving the Customer: Employees are more likely to be engaged when they understand the impact of their work on the customer's experience. Help your team members see the direct link between their roles and the value they provide to customers. This can be achieved through regular communication, sharing customer success stories, and providing opportunities for employees to interact with customers directly. When employees see the positive impact they have on customers, they develop a sense of purpose and pride in their work, driving higher levels of engagement.

Promoting Balance: Recognize that employees are human beings with lives outside of work. Selfcare is a priority in high stress environments, but it is crucial to know that there is no set work – life balance that includes equal hours of work, relax, and sleep.  There are some times when people will need to work harder and spend more hours on project, while other times it can be more relaxed.  By helping employees understand that they are not a cog in a machine and that there will be times where we work more and times when we work less it will help them understand that we value them as individuals.

Offering Occasional Special Incentives over Constant Rewards: While rewards and incentives can be effective in motivating employees, offering occasional special incentives can have a more significant impact on engagement compared to constant rewards. Constant rewards may become expected and lose their value over time. On the other hand, occasional special incentives, such as surprise bonuses, unique recognition programs, or team outings, create a sense of excitement and appreciation. They can serve as powerful motivators, driving employees to go above and beyond in their work. By strategically offering special incentives, you create a positive work environment that fosters engagement and enthusiasm.

Boosting employee engagement is essential for creating a thriving and high-performing workforce. By valuing others through active listening, connecting their role to serving the customer, promoting balance, and offering occasional special incentives, you can cultivate an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and connected to the organization's mission. Remember that employee engagement is an ongoing process, and it requires consistent effort and attention. By implementing these strategies, you can create a positive and engaging work culture that inspires your team to reach new heights of success.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

How To Build Trust With Your Team

When team members trust one another, they collaborate more effectively, communicate openly, and achieve shared goals with confidence. As a leader, it's your responsibility to create an environment that fosters trust among your team members. In this blog post, we will explore three essential strategies for building trust: showing up correctly, valuing others by learning about them and using a CRM, and being consistent in your interactions. By implementing these practices, you can cultivate a culture of trust that will propel your team to new heights of success.

Show Up Correctly: Showing up correctly means being fully present and engaged in every interaction with your team. It's about actively listening, providing undivided attention, and demonstrating genuine interest in what others have to say. By showing up correctly, you convey respect and validate the importance of your team members' contributions. This practice establishes a strong foundation of trust by creating an atmosphere where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported. Remember, your presence and attentiveness are powerful tools that can enhance team morale and inspire loyalty.

To build trust within your team, it's crucial to invest time and effort in getting to know your team members on a personal level. Take the initiative to learn about their strengths, aspirations, and challenges. A great way to facilitate this process is by utilizing a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. While traditionally used in sales and marketing, a CRM can be adapted to manage and maintain relationships within your team. By storing information about your team members' preferences, work styles, and personal goals, you demonstrate that you value them as individuals and are committed to their growth and success. Regularly revisiting and updating this information allows you to tailor your interactions and support accordingly, further strengthening the bond of trust.

Consistency is a fundamental element in building trust. Team members need to know what to expect from their leader and rely on consistent behavior and decision-making. By consistently demonstrating fairness, transparency, and integrity, you establish a sense of stability and predictability within your team. When your actions align with your words, trust flourishes. Consistency builds trust by providing a secure and reliable framework that allows your team to focus on their work without unnecessary doubt or uncertainty.

Building trust within your team is a vital responsibility as a leader. By implementing the strategies of showing up correctly, valuing others by learning about them and using a CRM, and being consistent in your interactions, you can cultivate an environment where trust thrives. Trust paves the way for effective collaboration, open communication, and shared success. Remember that trust is not built overnight; it requires consistent effort, active listening, and genuine care for your team members. As trust grows, so will the cohesion, productivity, and overall satisfaction of your team, propelling them towards their goals and fostering a culture of excellence.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

Business Networking Tips

In today's highly competitive business landscape, networking has become an indispensable tool for professionals to forge meaningful connections, uncover new opportunities, and stay ahead of the curve. While speed dating-style networking events may provide a quick way to meet many people in a short amount of time, there are other avenues that offer more substantial and long-lasting benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the power of networking through Chamber of Commerce meetings, the Family Business Center at the University of Toledo, and Industry Association events.

Chamber of Commerce meetings serve as a valuable platform for business professionals to connect, collaborate, and contribute to their local business community. Attending these meetings allows individuals to tap into a network of established professionals, community leaders, and like-minded entrepreneurs. The Chamber of Commerce often organizes events that facilitate relationship building and knowledge sharing. By actively participating in such gatherings, individuals can foster meaningful connections with industry experts, potential clients, and even future business partners. The emphasis on local connections also provides a solid foundation for building long-term relationships that can lead to referrals and collaborations.

The Family Business Center at the University of Toledo offers a unique networking opportunity. Family-owned enterprises face distinct challenges and opportunities that require specialized support and understanding. The center organizes events, workshops, and conferences where members can exchange experiences, gain insights from industry experts, and connect with other family business owners. By engaging with this community, individuals can tap into a wealth of knowledge, receive guidance on succession planning, and access resources tailored to their specific needs. Networking within this environment nurtures a sense of camaraderie and fosters long-lasting relationships built on shared experiences.  The extra benefit is that you are able to meet regulary with a group of your peers that can be a board of advisors in your business.

Industry association events provide a fantastic platform to connect with professionals working within a specific field or sector. These events often bring together industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts who share a common passion for their area of expertise. By attending and actively participating in these events, individuals gain access to the latest trends, insights, and innovations within their industry. Engaging in discussions, sharing experiences, and seeking advice from experienced professionals can open doors to collaborations, partnerships, and new business ventures. Building a strong network within an industry association not only expands one's professional reach but also enhances credibility and visibility within the field.

While speed dating-style networking events offer the allure of meeting numerous people in a short span of time, they often fall short in terms of building meaningful relationships. These events prioritize quantity over quality, making it challenging to establish a genuine connection or gain a deep understanding of another person's business. In contrast, the aforementioned avenues provide a conducive environment for meaningful interactions, allowing individuals to build rapport, foster trust, and develop long-term connections based on shared interests, experiences, and goals.

Business networking is an essential skill that can propel professionals to new heights in their careers. While speed dating-style networking events may seem appealing due to their efficiency, the true power of networking lies in the quality of connections made and the relationships nurtured. Chamber of Commerce meetings, the Family Business Center at the University of Toledo, and Industry Association events offer valuable opportunities to build meaningful connections, exchange insights, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. By focusing on these avenues, professionals can unlock a world of opportunities beyond the fleeting encounters of speed dating-style networking, ultimately contributing to their long-term success.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

Trust Building Games

Building trust in a group setting can be facilitated through engaging and interactive activities. Here are three trust-building games that promote communication, collaboration, and a sense of camaraderie:

Questions for Humans is a game that encourages open and honest communication within the group. Divide participants into pairs or small groups and have them take turns asking thought-provoking questions to each other. These questions can range from personal experiences and aspirations to deeper philosophical inquiries. The key is to create an atmosphere of trust and encourage genuine sharing. As participants open up and listen to one another, trust within the group will naturally strengthen.

Escape rooms provide an exciting and challenging environment for team members to work together towards a common goal. In this immersive game, participants are locked in a room and must solve puzzles, decipher clues, and collaborate within a set time limit to escape. This game requires trust, effective communication, and teamwork to succeed. The shared experience of working towards a shared objective fosters bonding and trust-building among participants.

Operation Adventure is an outdoor team-building game that involves problem-solving and physical challenges. Divide participants into teams and provide them with a series of missions or tasks to complete within a designated area. These missions can include obstacle courses, puzzles, or cooperative activities that require trust and effective communication to accomplish. The shared sense of adventure and overcoming challenges together builds trust and strengthens group dynamics.

Remember, the key to fostering trust through these games is to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Encourage active listening, respect for different perspectives, and the celebration of each team member's contributions. By emphasizing collaboration and positive interactions, these games can facilitate trust-building and create a stronger, more cohesive group.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

Why Listening Skills Build Trust

In our increasingly connected but often fragmented world, one of the deepest human desires is to be known and heard. We yearn for genuine connections and conversations that go beyond superficial exchanges. When we truly listen to others, asking great questions and employing mirroring techniques, we create an environment where trust can flourish. In this blog post, we will explore how these listening skills empower us to fulfill this innate need and foster trust in our personal and professional relationships.

We desire to be known and heard - At the core of human interaction lies the fundamental desire to be known and heard. When we listen attentively, we validate and acknowledge the other person's existence, thoughts, and emotions. By offering our undivided attention, we create a safe space where individuals can express themselves authentically. This act of genuine listening helps to build trust, as people feel valued and recognized for who they are.

Power of questions - Asking great questions is a powerful way to demonstrate interest and engagement in a conversation. Thoughtful and open-ended questions encourage the speaker to share more about their experiences, perspectives, and aspirations. By delving deeper into their thoughts, feelings, and motivations, you show a genuine desire to understand them. Great questions foster trust by signaling that you care about their story and are committed to listening and learning from it.

Mirroring - Mirroring techniques involve reflecting and validating the speaker's words, feelings, and experiences. Through active listening, you mirror their emotions and thoughts, letting them know that you understand and empathize with their perspective. This reflective approach helps to build trust by creating a sense of validation and acknowledgment. It shows that you are fully present in the conversation and committed to understanding their unique experiences.

Listening skills serve as the foundation for building authentic relationships. When we actively listen, ask great questions, and use mirroring techniques, we create a genuine connection with others. By understanding their experiences, perspectives, and goals, we can develop a more meaningful bond. Authentic relationships are built on trust, and trust is established when individuals feel truly seen and heard.

In a world filled with distractions and shallow interactions, mastering the art of listening becomes even more important. People long to be known and heard, and by employing listening skills such as asking great questions and using mirroring techniques, we can fulfill this deep-seated desire. When we create a space for open communication, trust flourishes, and authentic relationships are formed. Let us embrace the power of listening to build lasting connections, foster trust, and make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

Why You Need To Build Relationships With Your Peers Or Teammates

In today's interconnected and fast-paced work environments, building strong relationships with your peers or teammates is a critical factor for personal and professional success. These relationships serve as a valuable board of advisors, facilitating idea-sharing, enhancing project speed, and ultimately contributing to your overall effectiveness and success. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of building relationships with your peers or teammates, focusing on how they can become your trusted advisors, accelerate project timelines, and elevate your influence within the organization.

The Board of Advisors: Bouncing Ideas and Gaining Insights: When you foster relationships with your peers or teammates, you create a network of trusted advisors. These individuals can provide diverse perspectives, industry insights, and valuable feedback. Utilize this board of advisors to bounce ideas off them, seek their input, and gain fresh perspectives on your projects or challenges. Engaging in open discussions and collaborative brainstorming sessions allows you to leverage the collective intelligence and experience of your peers, leading to more innovative and refined solutions. This active exchange of ideas not only strengthens your projects but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth within the team.

Accelerating Project Speed through Collaboration: Building relationships with your peers or teammates is crucial for achieving efficient project execution. When you establish a strong rapport with your colleagues, it becomes easier to communicate, delegate tasks, and align on project objectives. Collaboration becomes seamless, reducing unnecessary delays and streamlining workflow. By leveraging the collective strengths and expertise of your teammates, you can identify potential roadblocks earlier, proactively find solutions, and expedite project timelines. Strong relationships promote effective teamwork, ensuring that projects progress smoothly and are completed more swiftly.

The Influence Advantage for Success: Developing influential relationships within your team or organization is a catalyst for personal and professional success. When you cultivate positive connections and earn the respect of your peers, you naturally gain influence and the ability to lead. Influential individuals can drive decision-making, garner support for initiatives, and inspire others to perform at their best. By building strong relationships, you enhance your credibility and trustworthiness, which enables you to navigate organizational dynamics effectively and rally support for your ideas. The influence you wield within your team contributes to your overall success, propelling you towards achieving your goals.

Building meaningful relationships with your peers or teammates is a cornerstone of success in the modern workplace. Cultivating these connections allows you to tap into a valuable board of advisors, where ideas can be shared, refined, and elevated. Collaborating effectively with your colleagues accelerates project speed, ensuring timely completion and superior results. Furthermore, strong relationships grant you the advantage of influence, enabling you to make an impact within your team or organization. Embrace the power of building relationships, and unlock the vast potential for personal and professional growth, enhanced project speed, and overall success. Remember, the strength of your network can shape the trajectory of your career, so invest time and effort in nurturing these valuable relationships.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

Leadership and Change

In today's fast-paced business environment, change is inevitable. Whether it's due to new technology, shifting market trends, or internal restructuring, businesses must be prepared to adapt and evolve. However, change can be challenging, and without effective leadership, it can lead to chaos and resistance. In this blog post, we'll explore why leadership is essential for change in a business.

Vision and direction: Effective leaders provide a clear vision and direction for the organization. They are forward-thinking and able to anticipate changes in the market or industry. By setting a clear vision and direction, leaders can help the organization move from here to there with great levels of engagement.

Talent management: Change can also impact the organization's talent. Effective leaders are able to identify the skills and talents needed to navigate change successfully. Effective Leaders also focus on building high levels of influence with their reports so engagement remains high during the changing environment.  Without influence leaders are not going anywhere.

Trust and teamwork: Change often requires trust and teamwork. Effective leaders are able to build high trust teams and foster collaboration among employees. They encourage open communication, constructive feedback, and a willingness to work together to achieve shared goals.  Some top leaders also focus on getting their teams out of the office to build comradery and trust with multiple different ways.  Escape rooms, BBQ’s, operation adventure courses, etc are some examples of this.

Leadership is essential for change in a business. Leaders provide vision and direction, manage change, foster innovation and creativity, manage talent, and encourage trust and teamwork. By having strong leadership in place, businesses can navigate change successfully, adapt to new challenges, and thrive in a constantly evolving business environment.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

Building Trust With A Man

Building trust is an essential part of any healthy relationship. Whether it's a personal or professional relationship, trust is the foundational in building any relationship.  Building trust with anyone takes time and effort, building trust with men can present unique challenges.

Men typically do not let others in on their deepest darkest secrets.  They keep others at arms-length sorta speak.  It can be more difficult to build trust with men in general.  That is not saying some men are more open.  We are talking about the majority of men.

• Communicate clearly: Communication is key to building trust. When communicating with men, it's essential to be clear and direct in your communication. Avoid using vague language or hinting at what you want. Instead, clearly state your expectations, intentions, and needs.  Our pace of speech is also another way we can turn others off.  When I was selling in the south where people have a slower pace of speech, it was up to me to communicate in their pace of speech not like a fast-talking northerner.

• Most communication is actually non-verbal.  How you show up, the face you wear, the scents you have on, and the environment you are meeting with others in can also affect the communication.  By doing so we can affect trust levels.

• Go on mission with other men will help build trust and bonds.  Men like to work for a cause and doing something together helps build bonds of brotherhood.  That is why men in the military have a sense of brotherhood when they go off to ware together. 

In the trust equation I talk about the next two items in depth.

Credibility: No one trusts someone who is not credible on the topic.  Men especially will tune out if we are not using facts and are credible on a topic.  If you find yourself talking about something you don’t understand fully.  Ask for their input, or get them in contact with someone that you know is credible on the topic.  It’s called being the bridge and I teach in the trust equation.

Vulerability: Showing vulnerability can be challenging, but it is the key ingredient in building trust.  While most men think vulnerability leaves us open to attack, being vulnerable is lending trust to others that they won’t.  When you're vulnerable with men, it shows that you trust them, and they are more likely to reciprocate.

Be reliable: being reliable simply is do what you say you are going to do.  That means show up.  Men focus on others being reliable as a trust component.

Building trust with men takes time and effort, but it's essential for healthy relationships. Men will take more time to build trust because they are selective on who they trust.  Remember, building trust is a two-way street, so be willing to extend trust to others as well.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees.    How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars.  Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.

Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com

Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com

The Sales Process Online Membership Site 

https://www.kevinsidebottom.com/pricing-page

The Sales Process Uncovered Book 

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=8XUM4QL2RC6M&keywords=the+sales+process+uncovered&qid=1673274567&sprefix=the+sales+process+uncovered%2Caps%2C90&sr=8-1

Want More Energy As a Leader, Try This...

As a leader, you need to be on top of your game at all times. You need to be energetic, focused, and ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way. However, with so many demands on your time and energy, it can be challenging to maintain your physical and mental well-being. That's why stretching can be such a valuable tool for leaders. That’s right stretching.  Now don’t leave just yet hear me out.

Back when I got into my 30’s and my energy levels started to go down as well as my metabolism…  I noticed that I would get more pains in muscles that I never noticed before.  I couldn’t just walk off injuries like before.  I needed to change how I did things. 

What I found was not only did stretching help my muscles, but stretching helps to improve circulation. When you stretch, you increase blood flow to your muscles, which can help to boost your energy levels. This increased circulation also helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, which can help to reduce fatigue and improve your overall endurance.

As a leader, you likely spend a lot of time sitting at a desk or in meetings. This can lead to poor posture, which can cause fatigue and reduce your energy levels. Stretching can help to improve your posture by releasing tension in your muscles and reducing the strain on your spine and joints.  Ever have a shooting pain down your leg that irritated you for weeks on end?  This increases stress levels.

Did you know that stretching helps to reduce stress? As a leader, you're likely to face a lot of stress on a daily basis. Stretching can be a great way to release tension and relax your body and mind. When you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, taking a few minutes to stretch can help you to clear your mind and focus on the task at hand.

Obviously, stretching helps to improve flexibility and range of motion. As you age, your muscles and joints can become stiff and inflexible, which can lead to decreased energy levels and increased risk of injury. Regular stretching can help to improve your flexibility and range of motion, which can help you to feel more energetic and reduce your risk of injury.

Finally, stretching can help to improve your overall mood and well-being. When you stretch, you release endorphins, which are natural chemicals that help to improve your mood and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This can help you to feel more energized, focused, and ready to tackle the day ahead.

Stretching is a simple but effective way to boost your energy levels and improve your overall well-being as a leader. By taking just a few minutes each day to stretch your muscles and release tension, you can improve circulation, reduce stress, improve flexibility and range of motion, improve posture, and improve your mood and energy levels. So, the next time you're feeling tired or overwhelmed, take a few minutes to stretch and see how it can help you to feel more energized and focused.

Have a great weekend.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

Why I believe Servant Leadership Is The Best Leadership Style

In business today, there are many different leadership styles that people can adopt to guide their teams and achieve their goals. One style that has gained increasing popularity in recent years is servant leadership. This approach to leadership prioritizes the needs of the team members over the needs of the leader, and focuses on creating a culture of service and collaboration. In this post, we'll explore why servant leadership is crucial in business and how it can benefit both the team members and the organization as a whole.

Servant leadership fosters trust and loyalty. When leaders prioritize the needs of their team members, it creates a sense of mutual respect and trust between the leader and the team. This trust can lead to increased loyalty from team members, as they feel valued and supported by their leader. When employees feel like their leader cares about them as individuals, they are more likely to be engaged, committed, and motivated to do their best work.

By prioritizing the needs of the team over their own, servant leaders create a culture of collaboration and teamwork. When team members feel like they are all working towards a common goal and that their contributions are valued, they are more likely to work together effectively and efficiently. This can lead to improved communication, better decision-making, and more innovative ideas.

It also encourages personal and professional growth. When leaders prioritize the needs of their team members, they create an environment that supports personal and professional growth. Servant leaders are often mentors and coaches, helping their team members develop their skills, learn new things, and achieve their goals. By investing in the growth and development of their team members, servant leaders create a culture of continuous improvement and learning.

When leaders prioritize the needs of their team members, they create a supportive and positive work environment. This can lead to improved employee well-being, as team members feel valued, supported, and cared for. Servant leaders are often more empathetic and understanding of the challenges their team members face, and work to create a culture of work-life balance and wellness. This can lead to improved productivity, better decision-making, and more innovative ideas. Servant leaders are often able to create a positive and supportive work environment that attracts top talent and helps to retain existing employees.

By prioritizing the needs of the team over their own, servant leaders can foster trust and loyalty, promote collaboration and teamwork, encourage personal and professional growth, improve employee well-being, and lead to improved business outcomes. By adopting this approach to leadership, organizations can create a culture of service and collaboration that helps their teams thrive and achieve their goals.

Have a great weekend.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

How To Commincate With The Three types Of Learning Styles

When it comes to learning, everyone has their own unique learning style. The three primary learning styles are visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. As a speaker or communicator, or leader, it is important to understand how to speak to each of these different types of learners. Here are some tips for how to speak to visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners:

Visual Learners

• Use visual aids such as slides, diagrams, and images to illustrate your points

• Use descriptive language to create vivid mental images for the audience

• Provide handouts or written materials for the audience to refer to

• Use gestures and body language to enhance your message

• Use color and contrast in your visual aids to make them more engaging

Auditory Learners

• Speak clearly and audibly

• Use descriptive language to create mental images for the audience

• Repeat important points to reinforce them in the audience's mind

• Use rhythm and cadence in your voice to make your message more engaging

• Use music or sound effects to create a mood or tone that supports your message

Kinesthetic Learners

• Provide hands-on activities or demonstrations to engage the audience

• Encourage audience participation through role-playing or interactive exercises

• Use physical props to illustrate your points

• Use descriptive language that engages the senses (e.g. "imagine the feeling of the warm sun on your skin")

• Incorporate movement into your presentation (e.g. pacing, walking around the room)

By incorporating these tips into your communication style, you can ensure that you are effectively engaging with each type of learner and delivering your message in a way that is meaningful and memorable. Remember, everyone has their own unique learning style, so it is important to be adaptable and flexible in your approach.

Do so and you will see you communications land effectively with those you engage with.  If you don’t you can risk having multiple meetings to go over the same topic. Communication is crucial if we are going to lead or teach anyone. 

Have a great weekend.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

Six Things To Be An Effective Communicator

Effective communication is crucial for any leader. It is through communication that leaders can convey their vision, inspire their team, and build influence. However, being a good communicator is not always easy, and many leaders struggle to communicate effectively with their team. In this blog post, we will discuss how leaders can improve their effectiveness in communication.

1.     Know Your Audience: One of the most important things to remember when communicating as a leader is that different people have different communication styles. Some people prefer face-to-face communication, while others prefer written communication. Some people prefer a direct communication style, while others prefer a more indirect approach. As a leader, it is your responsibility to understand your team members' communication preferences and adjust your style accordingly.

2.     Listen Actively: Active listening is one of the most important skills for effective communication. It involves fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their message, and providing feedback. As a leader, active listening is important because it helps you understand your team members' situation, issues, and ramifications. This can help you build trust and influence with your team, which is crucial for effective leadership.

3.     Be Clear and Concise: When communicating as a leader, it is important to be clear and concise. This means using simple language and avoiding technical jargon or complex phrases. It also means being direct and getting to the point quickly. By doing so, you can ensure that your message is easily understood and that there is no confusion or misinterpretation.

4.     Provide Feedback: Providing feedback is an essential part of effective communication. As a leader, you should provide feedback regularly to your team members, both positive and not so positive. Positive feedback can help motivate and inspire your team, while the not so positive feedback can help them improve their performance. It is important to provide feedback in a timely and constructive manner, and to focus on the behavior or performance, rather than the person.

5.     Use Visual Aids: Visual aids can be a powerful tool for communication. They can help to clarify complex ideas, make your message more memorable, and keep your audience engaged. As a leader, you can use visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and graphs to help illustrate your points and make your message more impactful.

6.     Practice Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. As a leader, practicing empathy is important because it helps you connect with your team members on an emotional level. By understanding their feelings and concerns, you can address their needs and build trust and rapport.

Effective communication is essential for any leader. By understanding your audience, actively listening, being clear and concise, providing feedback, using visual aids, and practicing empathy, you can improve your communication skills and become a more effective leader. Remember, effective communication is not just about what you say, but also how you say it. With practice, you can develop the skills you need to communicate effectively and inspire your team to achieve their goals.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

Why Women In Leadership Is Crucial For Businesses

In recent years, the push for gender equality in the workplace has gained significant attention. One crucial aspect of this is the need for female leadership in the workplace. In this blog post, we will discuss why we need female leadership and the benefits it can bring to an organization.

First and foremost, female leadership brings diversity to the workplace. Diversity is essential for any organization to succeed in today's global economy. Having a diverse leadership team can bring different perspectives, ideas, and approaches to problem-solving, leading to better decision-making and improved business outcomes.

Additionally, research has shown that companies with female leaders tend to perform better financially. A study by McKinsey & Company found that gender-diverse companies were 15% more likely to have financial returns above their respective national industry medians. Having female leaders in top positions can also improve a company's reputation, making it more attractive to customers, investors, and potential employees.

Furthermore, female leaders can serve as role models for other women in the workplace. Seeing women in positions of power can inspire and motivate other women to aspire to leadership roles themselves. This can lead to a more diverse and inclusive workplace, where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.

Another benefit of female leadership is the ability to create a more collaborative and supportive work environment. Women tend to be more empathetic and relationship-focused, which can lead to a more supportive and inclusive culture. This type of environment can improve employee engagement, reduce turnover, and ultimately lead to better business outcomes.

In addition to the points mentioned above, female leaders are often exceptional communicators and have a unique ability to build trust within their teams. Studies have shown that women tend to have a more collaborative and inclusive leadership style, which can make employees feel valued and heard.

Effective communication is essential for any leader, and female leaders often excel in this area. They tend to be active listeners and are skilled at creating open and honest dialogue within their teams. This communication style can build trust among employees, leading to improved collaboration and teamwork.

Building trust is essential for any leader, and female leaders are known for their ability to establish and maintain strong relationships with their teams. Female leaders often prioritize building relationships and creating a positive work environment, which can lead to greater employee engagement and loyalty.

Moreover, research has shown that female leaders tend to be more emotionally intelligent than their male counterparts. Emotional intelligence involves the ability to understand and manage one's emotions and the emotions of others. This skill can be essential for building trust, resolving conflicts, and creating a supportive work environment.

Female leaders bring unique strengths to the workplace, including exceptional communication skills and the ability to build trust within their teams. These qualities can lead to improved collaboration, higher employee engagement, and better business outcomes. By embracing and supporting female leadership, organizations can create a more inclusive and diverse workplace, leading to greater success for all.

As you can see, there are many benefits women in leadership positions bring to the table. Unfortunately many businesses overlook these benefits and keep moving along with a workforce that is disengaged, a mindset of just keep working hard and we will get there, and failing to hit the full potential of the organization. Women are great assets to the leadership team and unfortunately many leadership teams fail to recognize this.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

Importance of Leadership In The Workplace

Leadership is a critical aspect of any workplace. It sets the tone for the company's culture, influences employee engagement and productivity, and impacts the overall success of the organization. While there are many leadership styles, one that has gained popularity in recent years is Servant Leadership. In this blog post, we will explore why leadership is important in the workplace and why Servant Leadership is key from an employee's perspective.

Leadership is crucial in setting the tone for the company's culture. Leaders are responsible for creating a positive work environment that fosters collaboration, communication, and innovation. A good leader can inspire employees to work towards a common goal, promoting a sense of community within the organization. Leaders who foster an environment of trust and respect can help employees feel valued and motivated to give their best effort.

Leadership style can have a significant impact on employee engagement and productivity. Studies have shown that employees who feel valued and supported by their leaders are more likely to be engaged in their work, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. Conversely, a negative leadership style can lead to disengaged employees, which can result in decreased productivity, high turnover rates, and a negative impact on the company's bottom line.

Servant Leadership is a leadership style that focuses on serving others first, rather than the traditional top-down approach. This style of leadership encourages leaders to put the needs of their employees first, creating a culture of service, empowerment, and collaboration. From an employee's perspective, this leadership style can be beneficial in many ways.

Servant Leadership promotes employee engagement and empowerment. When leaders prioritize the needs of their employees, it can create a sense of ownership and responsibility for their work. Employees who feel empowered to make decisions and contribute to the company's success are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.

Second, Servant Leadership can lead to increased trust and respect between leaders and employees. When leaders demonstrate a genuine interest in their employees' well-being, it can create a culture of trust and respect. Employees are more likely to feel valued and supported when they believe their leaders care about their success.

Servant Leadership can create a positive work environment that promotes collaboration and innovation. When leaders prioritize the needs of their employees, it can encourage collaboration and teamwork. Employees who feel supported and empowered are more likely to work together, share ideas, and innovate to achieve shared goals.

In conclusion, leadership is a critical aspect of any workplace. It sets the tone for the company's culture, influences employee engagement and productivity, and impacts the overall success of the organization. From an employee's perspective, Servant Leadership can be key in creating a positive work environment that fosters engagement, empowerment, and collaboration. By prioritizing the needs of their employees, leaders can create a culture of service and support that can lead to increased trust, respect, and ultimately, success.

Have a great week.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

Three Leadership Qualities We Need To Develop

Employee engagement is a critical factor in the success of any organization. Engaged employees are more productive, innovative, and committed to the success of the organization. They are also more likely to stay with the organization and contribute to its long-term success. However, engagement is not something that can be achieved by simply providing employees with a paycheck and benefits. It requires a supportive and positive work culture, effective communication, and trust between employees and their leaders.

Developing influence, trust, and communication skills is essential for leaders who want to increase employee engagement within their organizations. These three qualities are interconnected and reinforce each other in creating an engaged workforce.

Influence is the ability to inspire and persuade others to take a particular course of action. For leaders, this means being able to motivate their teams to work towards a common goal. Influence is not about being manipulative or forceful, but rather about understanding the needs and motivations of your team and using that understanding to guide their actions. By developing influence skills, leaders can inspire their teams to take ownership of their work and feel a sense of pride in their accomplishments.

Trust is another critical aspect of employee engagement. When employees trust their leaders, they are more likely to feel secure in their jobs and less likely to be looking for opportunities elsewhere. Trust is built over time through consistent actions and behaviors that demonstrate integrity, honesty, and reliability. Leaders who are trusted by their teams are more likely to create a positive work culture where employees feel valued and supported.

Effective communication is also essential for increasing employee engagement. Leaders who communicate effectively with their teams can create a sense of clarity and purpose that helps employees understand their role within the organization. Communication is not just about speaking, but also about active listening and responding appropriately to feedback. By prioritizing communication, leaders can ensure that employees feel heard and valued, which can help to increase their engagement with the organization.

By developing influence, trust, and communication skills, leaders can create a work environment that fosters employee engagement. This, in turn, can have numerous benefits for the organization, including increased productivity, improved innovation, and a more positive work culture. Moreover, engaged employees are more likely to stay with the organization and contribute to its long-term success.

Leaders who want to increase employee engagement can take several steps to develop these essential qualities. They can seek out resources such as books, courses, and coaching to develop their influence and communication skills. They can also work on building trust with their teams by consistently demonstrating honesty, integrity, and reliability.

Employee engagement is critical for the success of any organization. By developing influence, trust, and communication skills, leaders can create a work environment that fosters engagement and motivates employees to do their best work. With effort and dedication, any leader can develop these skills and create a work culture that benefits both employees and the organization.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

What Is The Most Important Leadership Skill?

I am often asked what about the most important leadership skill.  People want to know the one thing they need to know to be a successful leader.  This is about the time that I burst their bubble about leadership.

I tell them that there is no one thing that makes you a great leader.  There are quite a few things that we need to be able to do and likely we will not be able to be amazing at all of them. 

One area that we can work on to increase our leadership capacity is learning how to communicate effectively.  That is right communication is a key component to leadership.  We can be brilliant at a specific topic, but if we can communicate it in a way that everyone understands it then we are really not that smart. The best leaders can take a complex topic and communicate it in a way that a middle school student can understand it.  That is the sign of a great leader and intelligence.

The first thing we can do is not use very complex vocabulary (words) to break down a topic.  We don’t need to use $100 words when a 50-cent word will work just fine.  Far too often leaders use these large words that confuses others.  This makes them think they are more powerful because they use these large words, but if people don’t understand, how are they going to move forward?  People need to understand more than we need to see ourselves as brilliant.

The other thing we can do is tell stories.  Ever sit around a camp fire and listen to stories?  We love them.  Sitting hearing someone older tell stories about something and the lesson that was learned is how we as a culture have learned since the beginning of time.  Learning how to communicate and tell stories to help others understand the topic is how we relate to others.  Similar experiences that people have in a story will actually build influence and trust.  Learn how to tell stories and you will be able to bring the audience in and teach them.  A great resource of doing this is Storyworth by Mathew Dicks.  It is a great resource to learning how to tell stories. 

Body language is also key in communicating.  That’s right body language.  90% of all communication is nonverbal.  That means our posture, facial expressions, and how we move communicate more than the words that come out of our mouths.  Far too often leaders stand behind a podium that creates a barrier between them and the audience. 

We need that energy if we are going to make points land so get out from behind a podium.  Take an improv class to learn how to make a point land.  Performers know how to make a point land and how to create climactic moments with their body movements and vocal tones.  Being able to help people understand the point and the excitement at the correct time is key.

There are degrees on communication because it is such a complex topic.  We don’t have to major in communication to be able to communicate well, but if we use some of the tips above we can greatly impact our ability to communicate effectively with those around us making us better leaders.

I hope this read has helped you and if you want to learn more about communication in leadership check out my youtubechannel for some videos on leadership and communication.

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

How To Build Work Relationships

Today with remote workers, the workforce changing over in record numbers, and engagement extremely low, we need to learn how to build networks in our own companies.  Different parts of the organization are located all over the world.  We need to know and build relationships with other parts of our organization while we are not able to do that face to face. 

How do we as managers of new individuals, new employees, new teammates grow relationships with others inside of the organization.  It’s complicated, and will take time, but it can be done if we are intentional about it.

This is the time that we have to put on the sales hat and think about how we grow influence and trust with others.  That is right, we need to think like sales professionals.  No not an evil sales person that does not care about customers and just cares about golf and selling products.  The good sales professional is the one that cares about understanding those they interact with.  They want to serve those they interact with so that they can move forward.

These sales professionals actually focus on the relationship and how they will be able to help their customers win and be the Hero of their own story.  That is the type of hat I am saying we need to wear.

The first part in building relationships is to learn and understand the individual that we are coming in contact with.  We want them to understand that they are heard and known.  We do not want to treat them as a commodity, but as an individual.  Someone that matters.

That’s what we all want right?  We want to know that we are known, heard, and that we matter.

We need to focus on others in the same way.  We have needs, but we really need to work for them an serve them if we want to obtain our better way forward.  We need to take the focus off ourselves and focus on learning about them. 

See the others we work with have situations, issues, and ramifications that if not fixed will result in poor performance, disengagement, apathy, and likely them leaving for another job.  If we can create a culture of helping each other and learning about each other.

When others know that we are not just trying to use them then we will build trust and out of that we get relationships.  That is right we build trust and relationships when we build influence with others.  Businesses move on trust and we need this if we are going to build relationships. 

Today in business we need to make sure that we are going out of our way to build relationships if we are going to move forward in business. If we do this, that we will have a better quality of life as well as success in business.

Focus on putting on that sales hat and building relationships and so we can succeed with others. 

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page

Most Important Leadership Qualities You Need To Succeed!

Leadership has so many aspects to it.  There is so much that a leader needs to know to be effective in their position.  Their frame of mind, their ability to gain influence, their ability to build trust, communication, and the list goes on to what leaders need to do well.

Today let’s talk about the most important leadership qualities that a leader must excel at if they are going to be effective in their position.

Leaders first and foremost must know that being a leader does not mean that they get to sit up on a throne like a king and order others around to do all their bidding.  Leaders actually have to flip their frame of mind to be one of a servant leader.  That is right, they are serving their organization and their teams by being a servant leader.  That does not mean that they are doing their team’s bidding, but that their decisions are to support their teams do their tasks better. 

How can they institute a process to help the team work more efficient.  Not too many processes though because that will just grind the organization to a crawl.  How can they help guide the teams to move efficient through their tasks to get their jobs done well and on time.

The next thing that a leader needs to be able to do is build influence with those they work with.  That is right they need to be able to build influence.  This is where knowing the sales process and how people buy will enable them to succeed. That is why typically someone that has been in sales is an effective leader. 

Leaders don’t have to be the greatest sales person, but the fact that they understand the process will help them lead well.  Knowing how and why people buy and buy in is crucial to building influence.  That is why I wrote the book for people to be able to have a simple process they can repeat over and over to grow higher levels of influence.  Without being able to build influence the leader will not be able to get the right people on the bus to move the organization forward effectively.

The third crucial quality that a leader needs to have is the ability to communicate effectively.  That is right we can be the smartest person on a specific topic, but if we can’t communicate so that others can understand the topic and be able to action that topic we will fail. 

Communication is key for instilling the vision, building trust, and moving others forward.  This does not mean that we use big words to make ourselves seem more intelligent either.  The best communicators can take complex topics and break them down into a simple language that even a child could understand.  If we can’t do that then we really are not that intelligent and are not going to be effective leaders.

Being able to understand and action these three qualities is imperative if we are going to be effective leaders for our teams. 

If you have questions about either of these three crucial leadership qualities feel free to reach out.  I would be more than happy to help you gain more traction as a leader!

“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with customers.  How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits?  I equip your sales team to walk with the customer through the five buying decisions, and in the correct order to generate explosive revenues with greater profits!”

www.kevinsidebottom.com

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lWIVasmkFsoYL4h0AqIZgH6LC3qaw_gI/view?usp=sharing – client profile sheet

https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Process-Uncovered-Success-Influence/dp/0578421518 - Book

The Sales Process Uncovered Membership Page