Why Your Organization May Be Failing At Engagement

In today’s workplace, organizations are grappling with a persistent challenge of employee engagement. Despite the advancements in technology, management strategies, and a deeper understanding of human psychology, employee engagement rates have stubbornly hovered around 30% since the early 2000’s. This stagnation begs the question: Why are organizations failing at engaging their employees?

Most organizations have consistently believed that financial rewards and elevated job titles are the keys to unlocking employee engagement. However, as the data consistently suggests, this approach has fallen short of expectations. While these incentives can provide a temporary boost in motivation, they often fail to foster sustained engagement and passion among employees.

While competitive salaries are essential for attracting and retaining top talent, the notion that increased pay alone equates to heightened engagement is a fallacy.  Bonuses are also used to reward exceptional performance, but they can inadvertently create a culture of pitting employees against each other. Employees may feel shortchanged if the bonus system lacks transparency or if their efforts are not adequately recognized.  If the organization promotes what the bonus looks like early in the year and then falls short of the expectation, this also drive trust down in the organization with the leadership.

Employees often seek more than just financial compensation; they crave a sense of purpose, professional growth, and a positive work environment.

Offering generous vacation packages is a positive step, but it does not necessarily translate into increased engagement. Employees may be hesitant to take time off due to fear of falling behind or concerns about workload, ultimately contributing to burnout.  Employees are also likely checking emails when they are supposed to be on vacation resulting in lack of separation and driving up anxiety.  Some employees I have talked to have even reported working while on vacation.  Now is that really a vacation? 

The last thing that organizations do is try to entice employees with impressive job titles.  Job titles can boost an employee's ego, but it does not address the core issues of engagement.  Once the high of a new cool job title wears off, the employee is left feeling like they are doing the same unsatisfying work.

Since the year 2000, the workforce has undergone significant changes. Millennials and Generation Z have entered the scene with distinct values, emphasizing purpose, flexibility, and a healthy work-life balance. The rigid, hierarchical structures that once defined organizations are increasingly at odds with the desires of these newer generations. This results in a disconnect between leadership and the employees who want to feel a sense of purpose while managers are hoping to keep the people moving along with their work.

Modern employees seek more than just a paycheck, extra vacation, or job title. Employees want to be part of something meaningful.

Organizations must recognize that the traditional levers of pay, bonus, vacation, and job titles, while important, are insufficient on their own. A more holistic approach that considers the evolving expectations of the modern workforce, emphasizing purpose, flexibility, and continuous development, is crucial for breaking free from the 30% engagement barrier. It's time for organizations to reimagine their employee engagement strategies and create workplaces that inspire passion, creativity, and a genuine sense of belonging.

“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

Consistently Investing In Yourself Will Net You Greater Success

As we finish out 2023, yes it has gone by that fast!  I wanted to send a special post about investing in ourselves if we want to have future success.

Investing in ourselves is a crucial aspect for our success. Just as stagnant water becomes foul and unpleasant, when we stop investing in our development, we limit ourselves for future success. We will explore the importance of consistent self-investment and how it propels us forward. We'll draw an analogy between investing and filling up a body of water, highlighting the necessity for movement and growth. Additionally, we'll discuss how budgeting serves as a financial tool to prepare and prioritize our self-investment endeavors.

Investing as Filling up a Body of Water: Imagine a pond without any movement or fresh water source. Over time, it becomes stagnant, emits an unpleasant odor, and loses its vitality. Similarly, when we neglect our personal growth and fail to invest in ourselves, we risk becoming stagnant in our skills, knowledge, and ambitions. Consistent self-investment ensures that we continue to grow, learn, and adapt in a rapidly evolving world. Just as a flowing river keeps a body of water fresh and vibrant, investing in ourselves fuels continuous growth and success.

Consistency is key when it comes to self-investment. Just as a single drop of water cannot fill a pond, sporadic or infrequent investments in ourselves will not yield significant results. Consistency allows us to build momentum and compound our efforts over time. It is through consistent actions, whether it's dedicating regular time for learning, seeking new experiences, or honing our skills, that we achieve sustainable growth. By making self-investment a regular habit, we create a foundation for continuous improvement, unlocking new opportunities for success.

Areas of Self-Investment: Self-investment encompasses a wide range of areas, tailored to our individual goals and aspirations. Some common areas to consider include:

• Education and Learning: Invest in acquiring new knowledge, skills, and qualifications that align with your interests and career goals.

• Personal Development: Engage in activities that enhance your emotional intelligence, leadership abilities, and personal effectiveness.

• Health and Well-being: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being by investing time and resources in exercise, nutrition, and self-care practices.

• Networking and Relationships: Cultivate meaningful connections with like-minded individuals, mentors, and industry experts who can support and inspire your growth.

• Personal Finance: Develop financial literacy and invest in sound financial planning to secure your future and create opportunities for wealth accumulation.

Budgeting plays a crucial role in our ability to allocate resources wisely and prioritize our investments. By establishing a budget, we gain clarity on our financial situation and identify areas where we can trim unnecessary expenses. A well-thought-out budget allows us to allocate funds for personal development activities such as training programs, courses, conferences, books, or coaching. It provides a framework for financial discipline and enables us to make deliberate choices that support our growth journey.

Consistently investing in ourselves is a fundamental pillar of personal and professional growth. Just as stagnant water loses its vitality, when we neglect our development, we limit our potential for success. By embracing self-investment as a continuous process, budgeting wisely, and prioritizing growth in various areas of our lives, we set ourselves on a path towards lifelong learning, fulfillment, and achievement. Remember, like a flowing river that keeps a body of water fresh, consistent self-investment fuels our growth journey, leading us to new horizons of success.

Take time before the start of 2024 to find an area where you would like to grow yourself so that the future self will thank you.

Happy New Year and we will see you back in 2024!

“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

The Mentorship Relationship

Mentorship is a transformative relationship that has the potential to guide, inspire, and empower individuals on their journey to success. A mentor, often an experienced and seasoned professional, takes on the role of a trusted guide, investing in the mentee's growth and providing invaluable support. In this blog post, we will delve into the essential aspects of effective mentorship, emphasizing the mentor's willingness to invest, their accumulated wisdom from experience, the importance of multiple mentors, and the creation of a trusting environment.

They Invest - A mentor is driven by a genuine desire to invest in the mentee's personal and professional development. They willingly share their time, knowledge, and expertise to support the mentee's growth. By offering guidance, constructive feedback, and valuable insights, mentors nurture the mentee's potential and help them overcome obstacles. This investment demonstrates a mentor's belief in the mentee's abilities and their commitment to fostering their success.

They have gone the way - A mentor's most valuable asset is the wisdom gained from their own journey. Having "gone the way and received the scars," mentors bring firsthand experience, lessons learned, and a wealth of knowledge to the table. They provide guidance based on their successes, failures, and challenges, enabling mentees to navigate their own paths more effectively. Mentors offer a unique perspective, helping mentees anticipate and overcome obstacles with greater confidence.

Why you may need multiple mentors - While a mentor offers invaluable guidance, it is important to recognize that no one mentor can provide all the answers or cover every aspect of growth. Embracing the idea of multiple mentors allows mentees to benefit from diverse perspectives and expertise. Seeking guidance from individuals with different backgrounds, skills, and experiences broadens the mentee's understanding and enhances their learning. Multiple mentors contribute to a well-rounded development and provide a range of insights for the mentee to draw upon.

An environment of trust - Trust is the cornerstone of a successful mentor-mentee relationship. Mentors foster a trusting environment by actively listening, offering non-judgmental support, and maintaining confidentiality. This safe space allows mentees to express their thoughts, fears, and aspirations freely. When mentees feel heard and understood, they are more likely to take risks, explore new opportunities, and embrace personal growth. Trust creates a foundation for open and honest communication, making mentorship truly impactful.

Mentorship is a powerful relationship that can shape the trajectory of one's personal and professional journey. Mentors invest in mentees, providing guidance and support. Their accumulated wisdom from experience equips mentees with insights and lessons learned. While a single mentor can offer tremendous value, seeking multiple mentors broadens perspectives and encourages a holistic approach to growth. Trust forms the bedrock of mentorship, creating an environment where mentees can thrive and embrace their full potential. Let us cherish and cultivate mentorship, for it has the power to inspire, empower, and transform lives.

“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

How To Build Customer Relationships

In today's competitive business landscape, building and nurturing strong customer relationships is more important than ever. While closing a sale may bring immediate gratification, establishing a long-term connection with customers requires a strategic approach and a genuine commitment to their success. To build lasting customer relationships, it is essential to focus on supporting customers, understanding their business, and aligning with their goals. In this blog post, we will explore these key principles and provide actionable insights for cultivating enduring customer relationships.

First we should state that building trust with customers is not a sprint, it is in fact a marathon.  We need to continually focus on supporting our customers in all aspects of our organization.  It encompasses creating a positive experience throughout the customer journey. Show genuine care and attention, promptly responding to queries and concerns. Be proactive in anticipating their needs and offer personalized assistance. By providing exceptional support, you build trust and foster loyalty, setting the foundation for a long-term relationship.

To truly connect with your customers, it is crucial to understand their business and their particular industry. We need to invest time in research, gather insights, and gain a deep understanding of the customer’s pain points, challenges, and opportunities. By acquiring this knowledge, you can position yourself as a strategic partner, offering tailored solutions that address their specific needs. Aligning your products or services with their goals demonstrates your commitment to their success.

Every customer has unique goals and objectives as well. Take the time to engage in meaningful conversations to understand their vision and aspirations. By actively listening and asking thoughtful questions, you can uncover valuable insights that will enable you to provide solutions aligned with their goals. Tailor your offerings to help them achieve their desired outcomes, and continuously reassess their evolving needs to stay ahead of the curve.

Clear and effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. Regularly update customers on relevant industry trends, product updates, and opportunities for growth. Be proactive in addressing any concerns or challenges they may encounter. Foster an open and transparent line of communication, encouraging feedback and actively seeking ways to improve your offerings. By being attentive and responsive, you demonstrate that their opinions matter, building trust and loyalty.

Building enduring customer relationships requires consistency in both actions and values. Be reliable in delivering on promises, meeting deadlines, and maintaining high-quality standards. Consistency creates a sense of dependability and reliability, fostering a strong foundation for trust which is something I have written about in the trust equation. By consistently providing exceptional experiences, you differentiate yourself from competitors and become the go-to partner for your customers' needs.

In the fast-paced business world, it is important to recognize that building customer relationships is a marathon, not a sprint. By focusing on supporting customers, understanding their business, and aligning with their goals, you can create long-lasting connections that go beyond individual transactions. Remember, nurturing customer relationships requires ongoing effort, active listening, and consistent communication. By becoming a trusted partner, you will foster loyalty, increase customer satisfaction, and position your business for 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

Let's Get Disciplined

Discipline is the cornerstone of personal and professional growth. It empowers individuals to overcome challenges, achieve goals, and unlock their full potential. However, true discipline extends beyond a single area of life; it requires an overall approach.

Discipline is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Being disciplined in one aspect of life, such as fitness or work, does not automatically translate into discipline across all areas. True discipline encompasses various aspects, including personal habits, relationships, time management, self-development, and more. It's essential to recognize that discipline is an ongoing journey, and cultivating it in one area requires deliberate effort and a commitment to continuous growth.

Small Incremental Steps: Achieving discipline can be overwhelming if we focus solely on big, audacious goals. Instead, the secret lies in breaking down our aspirations into small, manageable steps. By starting with tiny, consistent actions, we develop momentum and create positive behavioral patterns. For example, if your goal is to read more, commit to reading just a few pages every day. These small steps gradually transform into substantial progress over time.

Consistency is the bedrock upon which discipline is built. It's easy to become motivated and take action for a short period, but true discipline is sustained through consistent effort. By showing up consistently and adhering to our commitments, we train our minds to embrace discipline as a way of life. Small, regular actions accumulate into remarkable achievements. It is the daily dedication that shapes our character and propels us toward our goals.

Developing a Growth Mindset is an integral aspect of discipline. Embracing a belief that we can learn, adapt, and improve over time is crucial for maintaining discipline in the face of setbacks or challenges. Instead of viewing obstacles as roadblocks, see them as opportunities for growth. By reframing failures as learning experiences and staying resilient in the pursuit of our goals, we reinforce discipline and foster personal development.

Accountability and Support Systems create an environment that encourages accountability and provides support. Share your goals and aspirations with trusted friends, family members, or mentors who can hold you accountable and provide guidance along the way. Joining communities or seeking out like-minded individuals who share similar objectives can also provide valuable support and motivation. By surrounding ourselves with positive influences, we create an ecosystem that nurtures discipline.

Discipline is a lifelong journey that extends beyond any single area of life. By understanding that discipline is multifaceted, embracing small incremental steps, prioritizing consistency, cultivating a growth mindset, and leveraging accountability and support systems, we can unlock the power of discipline in all aspects of our lives. Remember, discipline is a continuous process of growth and self-improvement.

“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

The Best Engagement Ideas To Help Your Team Thrive

Employee engagement is a vital ingredient for organizational success. It drives productivity, fosters innovation, and cultivates a positive work culture. However, achieving and sustaining high levels of engagement requires a strategic and holistic approach. In this blog post, we will explore effective engagement strategies, including the implementation of short contests, understanding engagement is a marathon and not a sprint, aligning with organizational values, and expressing gratitude to employees.

Short Contests: can be a powerful tool to ignite enthusiasm and engagement among employees. These contests can range from team challenges, innovative idea competitions, or recognition programs. By incorporating a sense of friendly competition and rewards, short contests provide an opportunity for employees to showcase their skills, creativity, and teamwork. They inject energy into the workplace, promote collaboration, and offer a break from routine tasks, leading to increased engagement.

Engagement is a Marathon, NOT a Sprint: Sustainable engagement requires a long-term perspective. While short contests and initiatives can be impactful, it's crucial to recognize that engagement is an ongoing journey. Organizations should focus on creating an environment that nurtures engagement continuously. This involves fostering open communication, promoting a positive work-life balance, providing growth opportunities, and prioritizing employee well-being. Consistency in these efforts cultivates a culture of engagement and ensures lasting motivation among employees.

Alignment with Organizational Values: Employees are more likely to feel engaged when their personal values align with those of the organization. When individuals believe in and connect with the purpose and mission of the company, they feel a sense of belonging and are motivated to contribute their best efforts. Leaders should clearly articulate and reinforce organizational values, creating a shared sense of identity and purpose. When employees can see the direct link between their work and the organization's values, engagement naturally follows.

Gratitude: Expressing gratitude and appreciation is a fundamental aspect of fostering engagement. Recognizing and acknowledging employees' efforts and accomplishments significantly boosts morale and motivation. Simple gestures such as saying "thank you," celebrating milestones, or providing opportunities for public recognition can go a long way in making employees feel valued. Moreover, involving employees in decision-making processes and seeking their input demonstrates trust and empowers them, leading to increased engagement.

Employee engagement is a critical factor in driving organizational success. By incorporating strategies such as short contests, recognizing engagement as a long-term journey, aligning with organizational values, and expressing gratitude to employees, organizations can create an environment that fosters engagement and empowers individuals to perform at their best. Remember, engagement is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment to cultivating a positive and fulfilling work experience for employees.

“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 Decision Making

Leadership and decision making is a constant and critical balance. Leaders are faced with choices that have the power to shape the trajectory of their organizations and teams. However, it's important to recognize that leaders rarely have access to 100 percent of the data needed to make a decision. In this post, we will explore the art of decision making in leadership, emphasizing the significance of trusted advisors and the role of values and culture in driving effective decisions.

Embracing Imperfect Information: Leaders must come to terms with the fact that they will never have all the information they desire to make a decision. In a dynamic and rapidly changing world, data is often incomplete, ambiguous, or conflicting. Waiting indefinitely for perfect information can lead to missed opportunities or stagnation. Instead, effective leaders embrace the reality of imperfect information and are adept at making sound judgments based on the available insights.

Trusted Advisors: Leaders must build a network of trusted advisors. These advisors bring diverse perspectives, expertise, and insights that can help fill knowledge gaps and provide a well-rounded understanding of the situation. Engaging in open dialogue and actively seeking input from trusted advisors encourages critical thinking and mitigates the risks associated with incomplete information. A collaborative approach to decision making enhances the quality and effectiveness.

Use Values and Culture As a Guide: A strong sense of values and a well-defined organizational culture serve as guiding principles for leaders when making decisions. Values define what is important to an organization, its employees, and stakeholders. They act as a compass, helping leaders navigate complex choices and align decisions with the organization's purpose and long-term vision. By leveraging values and culture, leaders can make decisions that not only serve immediate needs but also foster a sense of integrity, trust, and sustainability.

A Good Gut Is Crucial: While data and analysis are vital decision-making tools, leaders must also recognize the value of intuition. Gut feelings and instincts are honed over time and can provide valuable insights when faced with uncertainty. Combining logical analysis with intuitive judgment allows leaders to consider both quantitative and qualitative factors, resulting in more well-rounded decisions.

Leadership is a continuous journey of decision making in the face of imperfect information. By embracing the reality of incomplete data, relying on trusted advisors, using values and culture as guiding principles, and intuition leaders can navigate uncertainty and drive effective decision making. Remember, leadership is not about having all the answers, but rather about making thoughtful choices that align with the organization's mission, vision, and values, ultimately leading to 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

How Energy Levels Affects Us

In our fast-paced world, achieving success is a common goal for many individuals. While factors such as talent, hard work, and opportunity undoubtedly play a significant role, there's one crucial element that often goes overlooked: energy levels. Our energy levels dictate our productivity, focus, and overall effectiveness in pursuing our goals. In this post, I’ll explain why energy levels are crucial for success and how we can optimize them to reach our full potential.

The Dynamics of Energy Levels: Throughout the day, our energy levels fluctuate, influenced by various factors such as sleep quality, nutrition, exercise, and stress. By paying attention to these dynamics, we can identify the times of day when our energy is at its peak. For most individuals, energy levels tend to be highest in the morning, gradually declining as the day progresses. Recognizing these patterns enables us to make the most of our peak energy periods.

To leverage our energy levels effectively, it's essential to create a well-designed plan that aligns with our peak energy times. Start by dividing your day into distinct blocks, each dedicated to specific activities or goals. For example, if your energy is highest in the morning, allocate this time for high-priority tasks that require creativity, critical thinking, or problem-solving. Use the afternoon for more routine or administrative work, and reserve evenings for relaxation and personal activities.

Three-Goal Daily Plan: Implementing a three-goal daily plan is an effective strategy to optimize energy levels and maximize productivity. Instead of overwhelming ourselves with an extensive to-do list, focus on three key objectives for the day. By setting SMART realistic goals, we ensure our energy is directed towards accomplishing what truly matters, fostering a sense of achievement and motivation. Remember, quality trumps quantity when it comes to goals.

The Pitfalls of Poor Energy Levels: When our energy levels are compromised, our ability to perform at our best diminishes significantly. Here are a few reasons why poor energy levels hinder our effectiveness:

Reduced Focus: Fatigue and low energy make it challenging to concentrate and maintain sustained attention on tasks. This can lead to decreased productivity and a higher likelihood of making mistakes.  Some issues with poor energy levels is impaired decision making, lack of motivation, and higher stress levels.

Energy levels are a vital resource that significantly impacts our ability to achieve success. By understanding our individual energy patterns, crafting energy-focused plans, implementing three-goal daily plans, and acknowledging the pitfalls of poor energy levels, we can optimize our productivity and maximize our potential. Remember, managing and nurturing our energy is key to unlocking the success we strive for in all aspects of life.

“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

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Being Your Own Boss

Being your own boss is a dream for many aspiring entrepreneurs. The allure of independence, creative control, and the potential for financial success can be incredibly enticing. However, it's important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before embarking on the journey of entrepreneurship. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of being your own boss, focusing on factors such as the ability to earn money solely based on your work, the dedication of time and effort required, and the benefits of side hustles as a low-risk entry into the business world.

Advantages:

Earning Potential Based on Work: One of the advantages of being your own boss is the potential to earn money based on your own efforts. Unlike traditional employment where income is predetermined, entrepreneurship allows you to directly benefit from your hard work and success. Your earning potential is not limited by a fixed salary or wage, providing the opportunity for higher income and financial independence.

Flexibility and Creative Control: Being your own boss allows for greater flexibility in terms of work hours, decision-making, and creative direction. You have the freedom to set your own schedule, pursue projects that align with your passions, and make business decisions without the need for approval from superiors. This flexibility and creative control can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying work experience.

Disadvantages:

Long Hours and Greater Responsibility: As your own boss, you are solely responsible for the success and growth of your business. This often means putting in more hours than employees in traditional roles. Entrepreneurs frequently find themselves working late nights and weekends, especially during the early stages of their business. The increased workload and responsibilities can impact work-life balance and require careful time management.

Financial Risk and Uncertainty: Starting and running your own business comes with financial risks. There may be initial investment costs, and the success of your venture is not guaranteed. Entrepreneurship involves navigating market fluctuations, competition, and potential setbacks, which can lead to financial uncertainty. It is important to have a solid business plan and a contingency strategy to mitigate risks.

Benefits of Side Hustles:

Low-Risk Entry into Business: Side hustles offer a way to dip your toes into entrepreneurship without fully committing to it. By starting a side business alongside your regular job, you can test the waters, gain experience, and assess the viability of your business idea. Side hustles allow you to explore different markets, build your skills, and generate additional income without risking your primary source of livelihood.

Diversified Income Streams: Having a side hustle diversifies your income streams, reducing dependency on a single source of earnings. This can provide financial security and stability, especially during times of economic uncertainty. Side hustles offer an opportunity to generate extra income, save for future ventures, or invest in personal and professional growth.

Being your own boss brings both advantages and disadvantages. While it offers the potential for greater financial rewards, flexibility, and creative control, it also requires dedication, long hours, and comes with financial risks. Side hustles can serve as a low-risk entry into entrepreneurship, allowing you to test business ideas and diversify your income. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, carefully consider the pros and cons, assess your risk tolerance, and create a solid plan to maximize the benefits and navigate the challenges. Remember, being your own boss can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey, but it requires careful planning, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt to the ever-changing business landscape.

“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

Employee Engagement ROI

In today's competitive business landscape, success is not solely reliant on innovative products or cutting-edge technology. The true driver of organizational growth and profitability lies in the hands of a highly engaged workforce. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of employee engagement and its potential to provide a significant return on investment. By delving into the startling statistic that 70 percent of employees are not engaged, we will shed light on the transformative power of engaged environments, where speed increases and costs decrease, ultimately leading to higher profits.

The 70 Percent Disengagement Dilemma: It's disheartening to learn that a staggering 70 percent of employees are not fully engaged in their work. Disengaged employees often lack motivation, feel disconnected from their roles, and exhibit decreased productivity. However, this statistic also presents a tremendous opportunity for businesses willing to invest in employee engagement initiatives. By addressing the root causes of disengagement and fostering an environment that values and nurtures employee satisfaction, organizations can unlock the potential of their workforce and drive profitability.

The Impact of Engaged Environments: Engaged environments have a profound impact on organizational success. When employees feel valued, connected, and motivated, they are more likely to go above and beyond to contribute to the company's goals. Engaged employees are passionate about their work, have a sense of ownership, and are invested in the organization's success. This leads to increased productivity, improved customer satisfaction, and reduced turnover rates. Engaged environments foster a positive work culture, collaborative teams, and innovation, creating a ripple effect throughout the entire organization.

Speed Up, Costs Down, More Profits: Engagement directly influences the speed and efficiency with which tasks are performed and projects are completed. Engaged employees are motivated to work diligently, exhibit higher levels of focus and concentration, and take pride in delivering quality results. As a result, work processes become streamlined, decision-making becomes more agile, and productivity soars. Additionally, engaged employees are more likely to contribute innovative ideas, problem-solving skills, and process improvements, reducing costs and increasing operational efficiency. A combination of increased speed and reduced costs directly translates into higher profits and a competitive edge in the market.

Employee engagement is not merely a buzzword; it is a strategic investment that can yield substantial returns for businesses. By recognizing the pressing need to address the disengagement epidemic, organizations can tap into the immense potential of their workforce. Engaged environments foster motivated, productive, and loyal employees who are dedicated to driving organizational success. With speed increasing and costs decreasing, profitability becomes a natural outcome. Investing in employee engagement initiatives not only leads to higher profits but also builds a positive company culture, strengthens employer branding, and enhances customer satisfaction. Embrace the power of employee engagement, and watch your organization thrive in an era where engaged employees are the true catalysts for 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

Perseverance, Do You Have It?

Perseverance is the fuel that drives us toward success, propelling us forward when faced with challenges, setbacks, and failures. It is the quality that distinguishes those who achieve their goals from those who give up at the first sign of difficulty. In this blog post, we will explore three essential elements of perseverance: getting back up, embracing the philosophy of "fail forward fast," and cultivating grit. These concepts will inspire and empower you to overcome obstacles and forge ahead on your journey to success.

Getting Back Up: Life is not without its share of falls and stumbles. What sets resilient individuals apart is their ability to bounce back after experiencing failure or disappointment. When faced with adversity, it's crucial to view setbacks as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. Instead of dwelling on failure, ask yourself what lessons can be learned and how you can use those lessons to improve and move forward. Remember, success is not measured by the number of times you fall, but by how many times you rise again.

Fail Forward Fast: "Failing forward fast" is a mindset that emphasizes the importance of embracing failure as a necessary part of the journey toward success. It encourages us to learn from our mistakes, adapt quickly, and keep moving forward. Rather than being discouraged by failure, view it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb, famously said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." This mindset enabled him to persist through countless failures and ultimately achieve his groundbreaking invention. Embrace failure as a valuable teacher, and let it guide you toward success.

Cultivating Grit: Grit, a term popularized by psychologist Angela Duckworth, refers to the combination of passion, perseverance, and resilience. It is the unwavering commitment to long-term goals, even when faced with obstacles and setbacks. Gritty individuals possess a strong work ethic, tenacity, and the ability to stay focused in the face of adversity. They understand that success is not instantaneous; it is the result of sustained effort and determination. Cultivating grit involves setting clear goals, developing a growth mindset, and building resilience through consistent practice and self-discipline. When you encounter challenges, remind yourself of the bigger picture and stay committed to your vision.

Perseverance is a powerful force that can propel us beyond our limitations and lead us to accomplish extraordinary things. By embodying the qualities of getting back up, failing forward fast, and cultivating grit, you can harness the strength to overcome any obstacle on your path to success. Remember that setbacks are not permanent roadblocks, but rather opportunities for growth and improvement. Stay resilient, keep learning from failures, and maintain unwavering focus on your goals. Embrace the journey of perseverance, and watch as it transforms your life and paves the way for incredible achievements.

“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

Writing a Sales Strategy

A sales strategy is a plan of action for achieving sales targets and objectives. It involves identifying target customers, determining the products or services to offer, setting pricing, and outlining the steps to take to close deals. It is crucial that creating a great sales strategy is essential in growing our revenue and profits.  Here are some steps to help you write a sales strategy:

1.     Understanding Your Market - The first step in developing a sales strategy is to identify your target market. Who are your ideal customers? What are their needs, pain points, and purchasing habits? What is the competition doing and how are they succeeding as well as faltering.  By understanding your market, you can tailor your sales approach to meet their specific needs.

2.     Understand What Customers Need – Ask the customer what they are having pain points with.  What is concerning them to grow their business?  What is their greatest area for need?  What is it that they believe is missing in the product offerings at this moment.  Ask lots of questions.  This is crucial to understanding what the customers need.

3.     Use The Correct Sales Process – The key thing that makes anyone successful is following a process.  As boring as that sounds, a structured process makes us more efficient.  Our speed and free thought will go up because of the process.  Check out The Sales Process Uncovered Book for more information. 

4.     Setting Goals – Goal setting is crucial to have a target to shoot for for the team.  We need to know what we are shooting for, or we will hit nothing.  Creating SMART goals that are strategic and have a time table so we can gauge how we are doing to the goals.

5.     Recalibrate – Just because we set our goals and our plan does not mean we are done.  The market constantly changes and customers come and go.  We need to recalibrate regularly, travel with sales team, and be intentional to check our plan to see if it is still relevant.

Sales strategy is essential for achieving sales targets and objectives. By using these five steps you will have a winning sales strategy to stay ahead of the competition.  This increases revenue and profits.  Now that is a strategy I like!

“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

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

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

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

What Else Could The Customer Buy?

Far too often money is left on the table by sales professionals because they are so giddy about making a sale.   As soon as the paperwork is done, they are running off into the sunset to celebrate their victory.  Only the great sales professionals know that if they are truly going to be successful, they are going to understand the customer so well that they can turn customers into partners buying everything they can from us.

You may be asking, what does that look like if I sell houses, or one main product / service.

It’s a fair question, but likely there are other products or services that are overlooked by sales professionals.  Are there other solutions that our organization offers to help individuals with financial help, insurance, software, inventory management, etc?  We should make sure that when we are at the beginning of the buying stage that we understand all the S.I.R.’s that the customer are experiencing.

S stands for situation.  The customer is in a situation that they need a solution to avoid obstacles they are facing or will face in the future.  During discussions it will be revealed the full scope and our organization has solutions to not only help with the surface level situation, but uncover the deeper level situation that are not truly recognized yet.  Ever been to a therapist to talk about something and they ask questions and by the end you feel even worse because there was a blind spot you didn’t see?  That is why we really need to ask a lot of questions at the beginning to dive deeper into the situation for our customers.  When we do this, it will open up a great deal of possibilities for us to help them.

I is for issues.  The situation that the customer is in has issues tied to it.  Something is not working like it should because of the issues that are creating roadblocks for success.  Just like the situation there are usually underlying issues that are not totally recognized yet and it is up to the sales professional to ask deeper questions to uncover those issues.  When sales professionals do this, they can they help the customer even better than initially thought.

R stands for ramifications.  That’s right, ramifications are the results if the issues for the situation are not resolved.  It could be profit losses, job losses, or worse death.  This is why doctors ask a great deal of questions because the ramifications are life and death.  Most likely in sales the ramifications are not as severe, but the ramifications still have huge impacts on the customer’s performance.  If the customers do not succeed in finding solutions to avoid the ramifications, they may be promoted to customer from their organization.  That’s just a nicer way of saying fired 

It is up to the sales professional to make sure they understand the customer fully and deeply if they are going to help them.  Most of the time if the sales professional does a great job up front they will make more sales and have a customer turn into a partner buying even more from them repeatedly.  We don’t want one-time sales, we want repeat partners buying more and more from us if we are going to be successful in our sales careers.  When do we do that well, we will have a better quality of life.  Typically, that means larger bank accounts that we can do more trips, family memories, philanthropy, etc.     To become the brand of choice we need to serve the customer well through the sales process.  For more on that I have created my online member site for learning the sales and leadership concepts I teach without the price tag of having me in person.

“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 Sell More!

How can I sell more?  How can I make more sales?  How can I hit my goals?

These are questions that sales professionals often ask me.  They are looking for a quick answer, pitch, or some kind of leverage to get their customers to buy more of their products / services.

Unfortunately, that is the incorrect lens to look through.  Simply wondering how I can sell more of my product / service is not the question we should be asking.  That makes the sales professional do and say things that are not true, and will likely come back to bite them in the long run.

Sales professionals have gotten a bad rap because of this lens they view selling through.  Why do people associate Used Car Salesmen as evil?  I’m sure not all of them are evil. Some may be, but the majority are just there trying to make an honest living. 

Ever walked into a clothing store and someone ask you what brings you in today?  Likely your response like most customers is something like, “Umm, just looking.”  That is because we have put sales professionals in a category low trust and to be avoided if possible.

When I talk with organizations and sales professionals, I tell them if they want to grow their numbers, they need to build influence.  That is right influence.  Influence is the ability to have an effect on others and their decisions.  This means that if we want to have influence there has to be trust involved. 

If customers trust that we are there to help them with their situation, issues, and ramifications, then they will be open to our help.  If not, they will just say, “just looking” and move on.  We need to build that trust so that we can have influence with our customers if we want them to buy more of our products / services.

True if we only want a one-time sale we can lie and not worry about building influence, but unfortunately each person that we are selling to has influence over 100-150 other individuals.  That means we are jeopardizing a lot more when we just focus on a one-time sale.

If we focus on building trust and influence with our customers, serving them well, then we will have the opportunity at more sales with others in their influence.  If we focus on serving customers to solve their situations, issues, and ramifications with a great experience, then they will tell others that they need to deal with us. That is like having our own salesforce that we don’t even have to pay.  Who wouldn’t want that?

Here is the interesting thing.  I have served customers well with a great experience and they did not buy my product / service.  Because I served them so well, I have had others that I have never met reach out to me and bought from me because they were referred by the person that I didn’t make the sale to.  I have also had that same person reach out later to buy something else in the future. 

To succeed in sales, we need to really focus on serving the customers to the best of our ability.  If we serve them well even if we do not make the sale this time, they will remember what we did for them and how we served them.  They may come back at a later date, or tell others that they need to deal with us. 

Remember Sales is a marathon, not a sprint!

“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