E.128 - Why US Playbooks Fail in Europe (Expansion Masterclass) w/Alex Bellon

Expanding into Europe sounds simple.It isn’t.In this episode of Making Revenue Tick, we sit down with Alex Bellon to break down why so many companies fail when entering Europe — and what it actually takes to get it right.If you’ve built traction in the US or your home market and think Europe is the “next obvious step”… this conversation might save you months (or years) of wasted time and budget.What You’ll LearnWhy Europe is “slow money” — and why that’s actually a good thingThe biggest mistake companies make when entering Europe (and why pipeline never shows up)Why landing in Germany first can backfireHow to use partners to inject reputation and unlock deals fasterThe difference between scaling in the US vs EuropeWhy your forecasts, hiring plan, and GTM assumptions are probably wrongKey Questions AnsweredWhy do US companies struggle to break into Europe?Because they assume it works the same — same sales cycles, same GTM, same expectations. It doesn’t.Why does pipeline fail in new markets?Because companies skip the groundwork: local reputation, partnerships, and trust.What actually drives success in Europe?Trust, brand, and local validation — not speed or volume.Standout Insight“Europe is slow money. But once you win, it doesn’t leave.”Who This Is ForFounders expanding beyond their home marketCROs and GTM leaders building international teamsSaaS companies moving from Series A → BAnyone struggling with pipeline, traction, or hiring in new regions⚠️ If You Take One Thing Away👉 Europe is not one market.👉 It’s multiple countries, cultures, and buying behaviours.Treat it like the US… and you’ll fail.📩 Subscribe @whatmakesyoutickConnect with Alex Bellon https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbellon1/Follow Richard Washington, MD at Tick Talent on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richwash/Read Richard's Newsletter Growth Magnet: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7083793079794556928New episodes every week with revenue leaders, founders, and operators sharing what actually works in today’s market.#emea #europeanbusiness #techstartups #businessexpansion #goingglobal #wmyt #ticktalent