Three Word Podcast

Episode 205, Living Life on your Terms.

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

The past weekend, I was thinking about the significance of July 4.

You may wonder, "Why do we celebrate the 4th of July? What does it mean?" Well, this day is incredibly significant in American history. It marks the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted (July 4, 1776), and the United States officially became its own nation. American citizens celebrate America's birthday with festivals, parades, fireworks, barbecues, golf, pool parties, and other festive activities.

 

What does Independence mean to you?  

What it means to me is to live my life on my terms! Imagine the ability to live your life without restrictions as you wish. Independence with your health, the friends you decide to spend time with, freedom to choose whom to love, financial freedom, and freedom to be yourself.

 

 

If you're in sales, you too can Declare Independence. You can work with the clients you choose to work with and have the ability to make as much money as you desire. Yes, it is possible. 

 

Chances are you've heard the phrase "make your schedule" countless times. While it may sound like a dream come true to be able to control your own time, it can be difficult to navigate the world of sales with so many external pressures and expectations placed on you. However, living life on your terms as a sales professional is possible and incredibly rewarding. 

 

Let's explore some comparisons to help you achieve this lifestyle.

 

Sales as a Creative Outlet

Sales may sound like a numbers game, but it can also be a form of creative expression. Like an artist or musician, you can choose your methods, develop your style, and build relationships with clients that suit your unique personality. You are not bound to the traditional nine-to-five office culture that many feel stifles their creativity. Instead, you can experiment with different approaches and techniques, even if they are unconventional. Embrace this aspect of sales and use it to fulfill your creative passions, whether through innovative outreach strategies or simply making your sales calls more enjoyable.

 

Sales as a Path to Financial Freedom

One major perk of sales is the potential for unlimited income. While building a solid revenue stream may take time, the sky is truly the limit regarding how much you can earn. This financial freedom allows you to live on your terms rather than being tied to a salary or pay scale. For many, controlling their income is incredibly liberating and allows them to achieve their desired lifestyle. Keep this in mind and work towards your goals with the understanding that every sale brings you one step closer to the life you want. One step closer to choosing whom you want to work with from a client perspective.

 

Sales as a Method of Personal Growth

Sales are not just about closing deals and making money. It is also a space for personal growth and development. Through the ups and downs of the sales journey, you learn valuable communication skills, persistence, and resilience. In many ways, sales allow you to test your limits and overcome challenges uniquely and rewardingly. Use this opportunity to discover what truly motivates you, both in your professional and personal life. As you grow and develop as a salesperson, you'll also realize that you are capable of much more than you ever thought possible.

 

Sales as a Means of Flexibility

Finally, one of the sales' most exciting aspects is its flexibility. Unlike many other professions, sales allow you to work anywhere, whether in your home office, a coffee shop, or even on the go. This flexibility will enable you to create a schedule that fits your unique lifestyle rather than trying to conform to an external model. Whether you prefer to work in the early morning or late at night, you can customize your day to suit your needs and priorities. Remember that this flexibility is a privilege, so use it wisely and make the most of your time by working efficiently and effectively.

 

 

As a sales professional, you can live life on your terms. You can build the lifestyle you desire by viewing sales as a creative outlet, a path to financial freedom, personal development, and a source of flexibility. Of course, achieving this level of autonomy takes time and effort, but the results are well worth it. So, go ahead and claim your Independence and live life on your terms.

 

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 204, Time to Reset!

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Episode 204 Time to Reset

 

How to Reset Your Year and Achieve Sales Success!

 

I was in a coaching session with a seller whose year was not going as planned. A few key accounts did not renew, and some clients spent less than the prior year. Good news a few new clients, but not enough to offset the losses.

Does any of this sound familiar? Add some personal distractions, and she became unfocused. 

 

The big question is what to do next.

 

It's Mid-year check-in time. 

How would you rate your performance on a scale of 1-10?

You don't have to wait until next year to impact this year.

As sales professionals or business owners, it's essential to evaluate each month, and mid-year is a great time to reset your focus and determine strategies for achieving your targets. But what if the year has not gone as planned, and you feel you're off to a slow start? Don't worry; there's still time to reset your year and achieve sales success.

 

Here are five tips to help you get back on track, make the most of the year, and set yourself up for a better next year.

 

Review your performance thus far.

The first step is we have to be honest with ourselves. We need to understand what's been working and what hasn't. Look at your sales numbers, conversion rates, and pipeline of client opportunities. Identify any areas where you've fallen short and think about why that might be. Did you take on too much at the start of the year? Did you focus on the wrong prospects? Most of us have accounts on our list that we should not be calling on. Which clients can you create a conversation with that you can help? You can start making changes once you understand what's been holding you back.

 

Revisit your goals.

Hopefully, you set specific sales goals for yourself at the start of the year. If you haven't achieved those goals yet, it might be time to adjust them based on your performance thus far. But don't give up on them entirely. Revisit your goals and create a plan to get back on track. Consider whether you need to refine your approach, invest in new sales tools, or work on your time management skills. Breaking down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps can help you stay motivated and focused.

 

Focus on quality over quantity.

Let me start by saying that not every account is a fit! As a salesperson, getting caught up in the numbers game is easy. However, chasing every possible opportunity can harm your chances of success. Instead, focus on cultivating quality relationships with your prospects and customers. Take the time to understand their needs, discover if they have a budget to solve those issues, and match your service or product as a solution to their pain. You'll likely find that this approach leads to more sales in the long run.

 

 

Reconnect with your customers.

One of the most overlooked ways to reset your year is to reconnect with your customers. Contact your existing clients, make new connections, schedule time on their calendars, and ask if anything has changed with their business since you last spoke. Find a way to know their unique goals, challenges, and objectives. This will help you build trust and rapport and give valuable insights into their needs and preferences. Identify someone they have a business connection with that perhaps they can do an introduction to you.

 

 

Stay positive and persistent.

Finally, it's essential to stay positive and persistent throughout the year. Remember that sales is a tough job, and rejection is normal. But every "no" brings you closer to a "yes." A no may mean not now and perhaps a future opportunity. Keep your focus on your goals, maintain a positive attitude, and don't give up. Remember, progress equals happiness.

 

 

Resetting your year as a salesperson can be challenging, but it's also an opportunity for growth and improvement. By reviewing your performance, revisiting your goals, focusing on quality over quantity, reconnecting with your customers, and staying positive and persistent, you can get back on track for a successful year. Remember, it's not about achieving perfection but progressing towards your goals. So, take a deep breath, refocus your energies, and prepare to achieve sales success in the upcoming months.

 

 f you think someone can benefit from this episode, share it, rate it, or subscribe to where you get your favorite podcasts.

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 203, Real Men do this!

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Episode 203 is about The Power of Mentorship in Business and How it Can Propel You to Success. Real Men Mentor!

 

I was thinking about all the Fathers and men that have impacted my road to success. The great men I work alongside today. The clients I have worked with throughout my 36-year career. The men took the time to teach me something that could benefit me and my career. Real Men Mentor!

 

Before starting in the business world, I thought business success was all about hard work and dedication. But it wasn't until I gained a mentor that I realized how beneficial it is to have someone with more experience guide me. I'll share why mentorship is important in business and how it can propel you to success.

 

I was having lunch with Frank, a client, mentor, and friend. I met Frank over Thirty Years ago while working at WLW Radio. I was calling on Frank, who then owned a Popular Hair Salon called Phyllis at Madison, to advertise his salon on our radio stations. Frank understood the power of marketing and how it could impact the salon's revenue. 

 

He was masterful at creating a unique marketing message with convenience to purchase and an exceptional customer experience. The program was called the Afternoon Affair. An afternoon of you getting pampered! The marketing Frank did around this program had his cash register ringing.  

 

He taught me that you can stand out from the competition and price doesn't always matter. Give customers more than they expect and create an experience they will never forget. Frank also taught me about the business world. He taught me that people buy from people they trust. Trust me; I had to earn his trust by listening and following up. Even the programs I would present to him, he would offer advice on how it might be a little bit better from a business perspective.

 

Frank, as a Mentor and Friend, has impacted my business life. Our time together on the golf course discussing business and life was priceless. I am lucky to have Frank as Mentor.  

 

I was thinking about the benefits of having a Men-Tor in your life.

 

Guidance and Support: 

Mentorship provides guidance and support from someone who has already achieved what you are striving towards. A good mentor can help you navigate the obstacles and challenges you may face and give advice on how to tackle them. Having a mentor can be especially helpful when starting a new business or entering a new industry.

 

Networking and Connections:

Through your mentor, you gain access to their network and connections, which can be valuable in growing your own business or career. They can introduce you to other industry leaders and professionals who can provide further guidance, insight, and opportunities.

 

Real-Life Experiences: 

A mentor can provide real-life experiences and practical advice you can't get from any book or online course. Learning from their shortfalls and successes can allow you to make better-informed decisions regarding your business.

 

Personal Growth: 

A mentor can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and provide guidance on how to address them. Through this process, you gain new insights and skills to help you in your career and personal life.

 

Accountability: 

Lastly, having a mentor keeps you accountable for your goals and actions. Your mentor can provide constructive feedback and push you to accomplish more than you thought possible. This level of accountability can be a game-changer in your personal and professional growth.

 

 

Mentorship is essential in business because it provides guidance, support, networking opportunities, real-life experiences, personal growth, and accountability. Don't be afraid to seek out a mentor in your industry, someone who has already been where you want to go. And if you're a seasoned professional, consider becoming a mentor to help lift the next generation of leaders. There is power in mentorship, and it has the potential to propel you and your business to success.

 

I want to thank all the Men that have Mentored me. My success reflects the time and energy you invested in me. Real Men do Mentor!

 

Thanks for joining me this week. If you think someone can benefit from this episode, share it, rate it, or subscribe to where you get your favorite podcasts.

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 202, Your Life Degree!

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Here is an interesting fact: only 46% of college graduates who earned their degree work in that field. That percentage didn't surprise me. Most of us that went to College learned about other industries that appealed more to us. We were limited to what we knew was available as careers. I didn't realize broadcast sales and management was a career until I went to College. My vision was limited to thinking a broadcast career was the talent in front or behind the cameras.

 

I started thinking about the lessons I learned that helped me succeed in life and business. So no matter what you majored in, we learned something from our experiences. We earned a degree in how to navigate our lives and careers.

 

The Three Lessons I Learned in Graduation That Helped Me Succeed in Life and Business.

 

Graduating College might seem like just another chapter in your life's story, but it's a significant milestone that shapes who you are. It was a moment of pure joy – the realization that I'd made it through four long years of hard work and countless all-nighters, not from studying but celebrating late into the night with other students.  

I recognize now that the years I spent in College taught me valuable lessons that have shaped my success in business today. 

 

I'll share the three things I learned in College that have been instrumental in my business life.

 

 

Perseverance is key.

 

Graduating College taught me a vital lesson – that perseverance is critical to success. In College, I never gave up, no matter how hard or long it took me to achieve something. Whether it was pulling an all-nighter for an exam or submitting a project with a tight deadline, I persevered. Today, in the fast-paced business world, I hold on to the same principles – that success takes time and determination. When I face business challenges that seem too overwhelming, I remind myself that strategic persistence is critical to achieving my desired outcome.

 

Relationships are vital to every success story.

 

In College, I met new people, formed friendships, and nurtured connections that have lasted to this day. These relationships have become essential to my success as they've opened doors and created opportunities for me. In the same vein, relationships in business are the key to building a successful enterprise. Whether creating a robust network of mentorships, forming partnerships, or engaging customers, building supportive relationships is a must-have skill for everyone.

 

Learning never stops.

 

Our lives are one big classroom! Learning to lean into diverse experiences, ideas, and cultures in College helped shape my perspective. I honed my critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills, which I still apply today. My experience taught me that learning is a continuous process that never stops, and that's the same in business. Constant learning allows us to evolve and stay ahead of the competition. 

 

 

My advice, keep majoring in the majors, your life! 

We all can learn life-changing experiences to prepare us for the classroom called life. These lessons, which include perseverance, the importance of relationships, and the fact that learning never stops, have been instrumental in shaping my success story.

 

I would love to hear what you learned in College that served you in the business world.  

 

Thanks for joining me this week. If you think someone can benefit from this episode, share it, rate it, or subscribe to where you get your favorite podcasts.

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 201, Coaching for Success.

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Episode 201, Coaching for Success. 

 

I believe there is a difference between Managing and Coaching. We manage processes, timelines, and our email inboxes. On the other hand, we coach the most important resource, our team. We are coaching each individual to be their best, Coaching progress and growth.

 

Let me ask you a question. When you think about the managers you have worked with, who comes to mind? Some of you may say the more critical or destructive managers or those who inspired you, cared about you, and focused on your professional and personal growth.

 

I was getting started in my career. Kim Smith Williams was one of the best managers I was coached by, and influenced my success. She cared about me and coached me to my talents and potential. She was a great teacher who invested her time in improving me and cared about my professional growth. 

 

Yes, many managers didn't care about me or other employees. They were too focused on managing up versus spending time and energy with the people that needed them. One manager was more destructive, and another was more constructive in their Coaching, building me up and teaching progress and growth. In both cases, I learned from both.

 

Coaching employees can be challenging for any manager. Unfortunately, many coaching sessions can end up being overwhelmingly negative. 

 

Coaching is an essential skill that can differentiate average managers from great ones. Even well-intentioned managers can cross the line and become destructive, making employees feel discouraged or defensive. The key is to learn how to challenge employees constructively: one that inspires, motivates and drives them toward success in their professional growth.

 

Here are five tips to help you Coach more constructively.

 

Start with the Right Mindset

One of the fundamental principles of Coaching is that everyone has the potential to improve. Don't go into your coaching sessions thinking you're there to highlight your employee's shortcomings. Instead, focus on strengths and collaborate on how to build upon them. To be a constructive coach, focus on growth rather than correction. A growth mindset will allow you to provide constructive and impactful Feedback while establishing a foundation of trust and respect.

 

 

Listen and Ask Open-Ended Questions

Coaching is not a one-way street; we are in it together, so you listen actively and allow your employees to share their thoughts and Feedback. Ask open-ended questions that invite a conversation rather than shut down discussion. For example, what are you seeing with your business? What are your thoughts on moving this account forward? This approach shows that you value their views and opinions, and it encourages them to take ownership of their progress. When employees feel heard and valued, they're more open to Feedback and more likely to act on it. Remember, we are on the same team - team progress.

 

 

Give Feedback

Everyone deserves Feedback on how they are doing. Start by asking your employee for their Feedback first to gain their perspective. Offer Feedback close to the time performance occurred so that it's fresh in both of your minds. This way, you can provide specific examples and ask clarifying questions. Additionally, timely Feedback allows employees to adjust course on a project or task, pivoting to a more successful path.

 

 

Focus on Behavior, Not Personality

It's crucial to approach Feedback focusing on specific behaviors rather than personality traits. Our teams consist of various personalities. Please focus on the behaviors or activities that can help them succeed.  

 

 

End on a Positive Note

It's always a good idea to end a coaching session on a positive note. Make it clear that you value your employee's work and care and are there for their success. Recognize any progress they've made and offer encouragement for what lies ahead. This positive reinforcement will create a healthy coaching environment and encourage employees to grow and learn.

 

Remember to approach Coaching with a growth mindset, listen actively, deliver Feedback promptly, focus on behavior instead of personality, and always end positively. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to being a constructive coach and effective manager.

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 200, How do you define Success?

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

How Do You Define Success?

 

Success is a subjective term that means different things to different people. Ask any CEO, Business owner, salesperson, or sales manager what their definition of Success is, and you'll likely get a different answer from each. However, a few key themes often come up when discussing Success, such as achieving goals, making a positive impact, and being happy. We will explore what Success means and how you can define it.

 

 

Success as Goal Achievement: 

Many people define Success as achieving specific goals, whether they be financial, career-related, or personal. If you've set a goal for yourself and accomplished it, that's a success. However, it's important to note that Success isn't just about the result but also the journey. The effort and learning that goes into achieving the goal is also a measure of Success.

 

Success as Making a Positive Impact:

 Another common theme in defining Success is making a positive impact on others. Many people feel successful when they can help others, whether by volunteering, mentoring, or making a difference in their community. Making a positive impact can be especially rewarding for those in sales or who run their own business, as it's a way to see the tangible effects of their work.

 

Success as Being Happy: 

Ultimately, Success may come down to being happy. If you're satisfied with your life and accomplishments, that's a success. However, happiness can be a tricky thing to define. What makes one person happy may not make another person happy. Some people find happiness in their work, while others must balance work and other aspects of their life to be happy. Ultimately, defining Success as being happy means figuring out what brings you joy and fulfillment.

 

Success as Growth and Learning: 

Another way to look at Success is as a process of growth and learning. This approach focuses less on specific goals or accomplishments and more on the journey. It also emphasizes the idea that Success is not a one-time thing. It's something that you need to work towards continually. If you're constantly learning, trying new things, and growing, then that's a success.

 

Success as Resilience: 

Being successful also means being able to bounce back from failures and setbacks. As a salesperson, business owner, or CEO, you'll likely experience challenges and obstacles. However, it's how you respond to those challenges that will determine your level of Success. Being able to persevere and stay motivated in the face of adversity is an essential measure of Success.

 

 

Success means different things to different people, but common themes emerge when discussing it. Whether you define Success as achieving goals, making a positive impact, being happy, growing and learning, or being resilient, finding a definition that resonates with you is essential. 

 

Ultimately, Success is a journey, not a destination. You need to work towards it continually, and it's okay if your definition of Success changes over time. By focusing on what's important to you and measuring your progress along the way, you can define and achieve Success on your terms.

 

 

Here is something to think about when you define Success. 

We become the stories we tell ourselves, so it is crucial that we, as narrators, frame our experiences with thoughts that inspire us for growth. We want to fill our minds with phrases that create a growth mindset. We are good enough. I can do this. It is possible, and I will learn from each experience.

 

 

How do you define Success?  

I would love to hear your thoughts.

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 199, Why Moms Matter!

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Episode 199, Why Moms Matter!

 

In this episode, I share my personal experiences of why Moms matter.

 

I was hiking the pups enjoying nature and thinking about my Mom and Mother's Day. What I know for sure is being a Mom is not easy. Moms make sacrifices for us. What Moms do better than most is to help their kids create a pathway for their kid's journey.

 

I also know Moms, including Mom Thal, are doing their best to raise their kids. Moms get the most out of each day with tasks switching from work to their kids' lives, friends, and family demands, and they do it with such grace. It's not easy, nor is life, as my Mom would say. 

 

I am so grateful to have the ability to see and talk to my Mom. At 92 years old, I don't take for granted each conversation, each time I get to hug her, hold her hand, and tell her how much I love her. I know today can be challenging for many listening because your moms are no longer here, so I am thinking of you. I am confident your Moms are smiling down on you today on the person you have become and your impact on others.

 

Why Moms Matter! 

As I get older, I realize their significance in our lives.

 

Moms matter for many reasons. They are a source of unconditional love and support, providing comfort and assurance in times of need. The one person that could make me feel better when I was sick or sad was my Mom. Reflecting on my life in those moments, I always felt better knowing my Mom was by my side.

 

 

Moms matter because they represent strength and stability in our lives. From early childhood, moms are our first teachers and guides, nurturing us with love, discipline, and lessons that will help shape us into confident, capable adults.  

 

One lesson Mom Thal taught me was the ability to be independent and take care of yourself. She taught us the importance of financially taking care of ourselves, including getting a good education and job, giving the employer more than expected, and Being a great friend! This was her number one goal for all our children.

 

 

Moms matter because they are the cornerstone of families, providing a steady and reliable presence throughout life's challenges. They are our biggest supporters, always offering encouragement and guidance as we strive to reach our goals. 

 

Moms matter because they give us the tools to navigate life's problems. They offer guidance, support, and advice to help us make meaningful decisions and cope with difficult situations. Moms provide emotional support and understanding, allowing us to work through anger, sadness, loneliness, and fear. Moms are conflict resolutionists. They show us how to deal with conflict and find solutions for us.

 

Moms matter because they love us unconditionally, no matter our path. They are our biggest cheerleaders, lifting us up when needed and helping to build our confidence and self-esteem.

 

Moms make sacrifices. Rarely putting themselves first. I see it daily with my sisters, friends, and the women I work with who give endless hours of time and energy to improve their kids' lives.

 

 

Moms matter because they provide a deep and lasting connection between ourselves, our families, and our friends. They give us a sense of belonging and security, teaching us the importance of forging meaningful relationships. 

 

This is the great lesson I learned from my Mom. I witnessed the countless friendships she developed with all the people at UC Health and her deep connections with her friends. At 92, some of her dearest friends have passed, and she still shares those heart-connection moments she experienced. 

 

 

Moms are irreplaceable and an invaluable part of our lives. From the moment we are born until the day we depart this earth, their love is a constant source of strength and comfort that can help guide us through life's journey. No matter the circumstances, moms always matter in our lives.

 

So I am asking you to join me in putting down your phones, call or sit with your Mom and let her know how much you appreciate all she did and has done for you. You may have had some challenging moments, but that is life. 

 

I am forever grateful for My Mom. 

She impacted and shaped my life. 

Her life Matters!

 

 

Thanks for joining me this week. If you think someone can benefit from this episode, share it, rate it, or subscribe to where you get your favorite podcasts.

 

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 198, Your Three People

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Episode 198, Your Three People. The importance of those you choose to spend time with.

 

This a phrase my Mom would say to me growing up that I didn't fully realize and appreciate until later in life. She would say. " You become whom you hang around ."It was her way of saying to stay away from kids who get into trouble, don't see a future for themselves, and may go down the wrong path. Your future can be shaped by those you spend time with.

 

She said you have a choice in whom you spend time with, including those you work with, your friends, and your family. And Yes, Mom Thal was right!

 

Someone else shares a similar view regarding your Business and Life, Warren Buffett!

 

Associate with people better than you

The people you choose to be around genuinely do matter for career progression. When you surround yourself with better and smarter individuals and learn from their success habits, you absorb their knowledge and become better yourself. 

 

Do the opposite -- spend time with procrastinators, complainers, and pessimists -- and over time, you'll become like them, severely limiting your success.  

 

In Alice Schroeder's book The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life, Buffett offers Three Tips for becoming a successful businessperson and human being. 

 

I am all in when Warren Buffett gives advice. 

 

Three types of people with whom you should spend more time with:

 

Mentors/Coaches

Mentorship can have a significant impact on someone's career development. Who is in your inner circle of close connections that can advise you? As the famous saying goes, we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with. Make sure to associate with those who can potentially help you learn new things, grow, and advance your career.

 

Understand that there are many paths to success. Sometimes you need someone else to encourage you, hold you accountable, and bounce your ideas off. If you find identifying a good mentor challenging, hire a coach. I am a Life and Business Coach, and my goal is to help my clients realize their business and life goals.

 

 

Contrarians

Contrarians are entrepreneur-minded people who push against the status quo by doing, thinking, and behaving in unconventional ways -- at the speed of innovation. They look to "break new things" and continuously try to tread a new or different path. When you hang around with these people and absorb their ideas and wisdom, you've opened the door to your own creative, entrepreneurial thinking.

 

I always believed we learn more from those that think differently than us. These people can broaden our views and give us a different perspective. Keep in mind that these can be people you have never met. Technology today allows us to learn from others. Podcasts I listen to expand my thinking. Audiobooks and what I read give me a different perspective.

 

People with emotional intelligence

Regarding leadership and owning a business, emotional intelligence (EQ) matters as much as, if not more than, IQ for work effectiveness. Surround yourself with people with EQ, which will rub off on you and sharpen your skills. As you observe and learn from people exhibiting good self-awareness and empathy, it'll help raise your self-awareness and teach you the ability to recognize and manage your own emotions as well as recognize and influence the feelings of others. 

 

So who are your three people?

Success leaves clues, and those you spend time with do Matter!

So choose those people wisely!

 

Thanks for joining me this week. If you think someone can benefit from this episode, share it, rate it, or subscribe to where you get your favorite podcasts.

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 197, Redefine Your Failures

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Episode 197 Redefine Your Failures

 

This episode is about how we see our future when facing Failure and what we can do to change it. This week three words, Redefine Your Failures.

 

I have a question for you. Why does the word Failure impact us emotionally? It questions our self-worth and our contributions and feels awful. No one says, celebrating, Hello World, I failed today. The question is, Why? Years of programming our minds to accept that Failure is terrible vs. good.

 

Let me start by saying that today is the day you can Redefine how you look at failing! A Bold claim but true! It begins with our Mindset and how we view all our experiences. We can consider things that are happening To us or For us. I like to think that all of my experiences, good and bad, are learning opportunities. 

It is happening for me, not to me.

 

Here are a few common themes that lead us down a path of Failure.

 

Procrastination: One of the most common personal failures is procrastination, leading to missed opportunities, unfinished tasks, and poor time management. Procrastination can drive fear, lack of motivation, or other factors and hinder personal growth and progress.

 

Poor communication: Miscommunication or lack of communication can be a personal failure that impacts relationships or work performance. Effective communication is essential for building positive relationships, understanding others, and achieving goals.

 

Inflexibility: Another personal failure individuals can experience is inflexibility, resulting in missed opportunities, an inability to adapt to change, or a lack of innovation. Being adaptable and open to new ideas and perspectives is critical for personal and professional growth.

 

 

We all will face difficult situations and setbacks throughout our personal and business life, and how we respond will be the difference. I was listening to a podcast where Trent Shelton, who played in the NFL, shared how to shift your Mindset when facing Failure.

 

 

You can have a mindset that can be a Prisoner or Power perspective. Prisoners focus on Why. Why did this happen to me? Power perspective is saying. All things are working on our behalf. Thank you for the experience.

 

We must understand that for things to get better, we must get better.

 

There are three questions, yes three, which will help you gain perspective and help you move forward when failing.

 

How am I going to respond?    

How we respond to Failure is the first step. Take control and respond with Power and a thank you. Find something good from that situation that serves you. Our perspective will define how we view those experiences and what we learn. Did we regard it as a disaster or someone else's fault, or are we grateful for the experience to learn and find a way to be grateful?

 

 

What does this mean to me? 

Power perspective is what to ask yourself what does this mean to me? How am I going to use this experience to gain perspective?

 

How will I use this?

How will you use this experience to keep moving forward?

A simple shift in this phrase can give you perspective and control of each situation. Instead of saying what this means, ask yourself what is this going to mean? It allows us to figure out something better. You have an opportunity to create something better.

 

Shifting your perspective allows You to take Power out of this situation and put the Power in your life. So keep failing forward!

 

 

So to get where you are and where you want to be, our current plan may not work. We sit in fear. Now is the time to take bold action, gain new perspectives and take that uncomfortable action.

 

Live into your Heart! There are moments when we maintain control and shift. Other times, outside forces are so strong that they make us shift. Keep making shifts and become that person you want to be! You know you're meant for more and want to control your future, not let someone else.

 

Thanks for joining me this week. If you think someone can benefit from this episode, share it, rate it, or subscribe to where you get your favorite podcasts.

 

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.

Episode 196, Is it time to Reboot?

Create Sales meetings in minutes. Lisa Thal is an Author, Speaker, and Business Coach. She has over 36 years of marketing, sales, and leadership experience. She wrote the book "Three Word Meetings."  Lisa coaches leaders on creating sales and business meetings with fun and interesting 3-word topics to create a conversation and inspire your sales team.

 

Episode 196,  What do we need to Unlearn to Relearn?  Time to Reboot!

 

I was in a coaching session with a veteran seller, and we reviewed her business for the quarter. I asked what she was happy with and what insights she had learned. My next question was whether she needed to reboot or unlearn to relearn anything moving forward.

 

Whether you're in sales, an employee of a company, or running your own business, we all have experienced years of programming that have us doing things the same way. Years of learning without slowing down and reflecting on what we may need to unlearn to relearn for better results.

 

We tend to reboot our exercise and eating programs when we don't see the results we are looking for. We are open to relearning in a better way.

There are a few things we need to unlearn to relearn.

 

Self-sabotage

Somewhere along the way, we learned to be our own worst critics. We are so hard on ourselves and unforgiving. Our negative self-talk can stop us from moving forward. Now is not the time or My family and friends won't think this is a good idea. Do any of those statements sound familiar? 

 

It's time to stop being so hard on ourselves. We need to take the time to relearn and affirm ourselves and replace our negative self-talk with positive words that allow us to look at life differently so that we can relearn a better way of approaching our goals and dreams.

 

Fear of failure

The thing about fear of failure is that its only purpose is to keep you from success. The reality is that failure is a good thing! It is progress! Failure is a lesson and to relearn how to do something differently! Failure is always a part of success! If you aren't failing, you may not be pushing your best version of yourself. No more playing small and playing it safe!

 

Somewhere along the way, we learned to be more afraid of failure than anything else! Yes, we will fall short at times. For example, when you learned to ride a bike, and you were unsteady. You gain new insights each time you get on your bike until you relearn how to ride that bike.

 

Think about all of the times you have failed in your life. Have you ever been fired or not hired and been rejected or dumped? Tried a new hobby or sport and were terrible at it? What's the worst that happened? You were disappointed, and you moved on! Life went on! You found a better job or partner or learned a new skill.

 

Life is about making progress, and so are Sales. I was challenging this seller to rethink how they approached their business. Reboot time! What did she need to Unlearn to Relearn that could improve focus, energy, and success in exceeding her revenue goals?

 

How can we apply the Reboot to our business? 

What can we Unlearn to Relearn?

 

Thinking that sales are a one-dimensional process

There are many different steps involved in making a successful sale. Many people believe that sales are a one-dimensional process; you must get your product in front of potential customers and make the sale. You need to identify qualified leads, discover their challenges, see if they have a budget to solve that challenge, understand their decision-making process, build trust with those leads, nurture them through the sales cycle, create a personalized solution to that challenge, close the sale and then measure the progress.  

 

Reboot Your Prospects and Accounts.

Success in sales requires knowing who your customers are and their challenges. If you don't take the time to understand your customers, then you won't be able to sell your product or service effectively. Some accounts we may target do not fit our product or service. They don't have the resources for you to solve their challenges. Identify those accounts you know can't solve their challenge and add another prospect you can. 

 

Measure and Track your progress.

Many of us want to meet with prospects and convert them into clients. Yes, we all prefer the short sales cycle. I recommend looking at your numbers to understand the wins and where you need to make adjustments. How many new client meetings did you secure? How many pitches did you have in the quarter? What was your closing ratio, and is there room for improvement? Maybe you are calling on too small of accounts that don't have the budget to support you in solving their challenges.

 

There is a science behind your sales, and tracking key metrics is vital to understanding which tactics are working and which aren't. Tracking these metrics will help you identify opportunities to improve your sales process and maximize your success.

 

Learn to invest in training.

Sales and business are ever-evolving fields; what worked yesterday may not work today. Investing in ongoing training and development ensures you always have the latest knowledge and skills to succeed. It includes everything from understanding the latest trends in customer behavior to mastering particular sales techniques. Investing in you will go a long way toward ensuring that your business is well-positioned for success in an ever-changing marketplace.

 

Our lives are one big classroom. We can learn something new, unlearn what no longer serves us, and relearn how to approach a situation with a new strategy based on what we learned.

 

What is something you need to unlearn to relearn?

Is it time for a Reboot?

 

Thanks for joining me this week. If you think someone can benefit from this episode, share it, rate it, or subscribe to where you get your favorite podcasts.

 

Create engaging sales meetings in minutes! 

My easy-to-use process can quickly create impactful meetings tailored to your team's needs. 

 

Learn more at www.Threewordmeetings.com.