Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) podcast artwork

PODCAST · business

Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do)

Level up your sales game with our podcast! Join us for engaging discussions on sales techniques, interviews with industry leaders, and updates from Middle Tennessee State University's Center for Professional Selling. Tune in each week to learn from experienced hosts and guests, and be part of our vibrant sales community, Subscribe now on major platforms!

  1. 36

    Why Product Demos Matter More Than Ever

    In a world full of options, prospects aren’t just looking for features—they’re looking for solutions. That’s why a well-executed product demo isn’t just a sales tool; it’s a moment of clarity.A great demo helps the prospect·         Visualize how the product fits into their workflow·         Understand how it solves a specific pain point·         See the path from problem to solution—from goal to achievementIt’s not about showing off every bell and whistle. It’s about telling a story where the prospect is the hero—and your product is the guide.I’ve seen this firsthand.When I sold Oce Engineering equipment, I’d open the machine and show how the paper fed straight through—unlike other models where it zigzagged. That simple visual made a huge impact. Fewer paper jams meant less downtime, especially when dealing with 40" wide rolls. That demo didn’t just show a feature—it solved a real problem.Later, selling software solutions for a Microsoft VAR, I’d grab a whiteboard and sketch out the flow of the solution. Seeing the process laid out helped prospects connect the dots. It wasn’t just about the software—it was about how it fit into their world.If you’re in sales, product, or customer success, remember: the best demos don’t just inform—they inspire action.What’s your favorite demo tip or story? Let’s share and learn from each other.#SalesTips #ProductDemo #CustomerSuccess #StorytellingInSales #B2BMarketing

  2. 35

    Meet Our Partners - Novatech

    Meet Lief Andresen, Market Leader with Novatech. Novatech is a wonderful partner who sponsors the Novatech Sales Competition for the Advanced Selling class.

  3. 34

    Meet Our Partners - Brad O'Neil

    Partner interview with Brad O'Neil

  4. 33

    Fall Drink Coffee, Make Friends '25 Podcast Series!

    Welcome Back to Business, Fall Drink Coffee, Make Friends '25Podcast Series!Get ready for a season packed with energy, insight, andinnovation—straight from the heart of MTSU!We’re beyond excited to launch another round ofconversations that connect classroom learning with real-world experience. Thisfall, we’re bringing you 13 dynamic episodes co-hosted by ThomCoats, Director of the Center for Professional Selling and the one andonly Mark Roberts, the unmistakable voice of MTSU and Director ofthe Dale Carnegie program. Mark’s passion for professional development andstudent success makes every episode a must-listen.But that’s just the beginning.This season, we’re shaking things up with threebrand-new formats designed to bring you even closer to the action:Corporate Partner InterviewsHear directly from our visiting industry leaders about what’s happening in thefield, what skills they value most, and how students can stand out in today’scompetitive landscape.On-the-Street Style InterviewsWe’re going live from our events to capture spontaneous, unscriptedconversations with students and partners. You’ll hear what’s being learned,shared, and discovered—in real time.Graduating Student SpotlightsHosted by Macee Vincent, you’ll meet the next generation of sales professionals.These episodes dive into their journeys, lessons learned, and what they’reexcited about as they step into the professional world.Whether you're a student, educator, industry partner, orlifelong learner, this series is built to inform, inspire, and connect.It’s more than a podcast—it’s a front-row seat to the future of saleseducation.Subscribe, share, and let us know which episode you're mostexcited to hear!#MTSU #Fall25 #PodcastSeries #SalesProfession #DaleCarnegie#ProfessionalDevelopment #StudentVoices #CorporatePartners #NextGenSales#RealWorldLearning

  5. 32

    Student-Athletes and Sales

    The sound is off; I didn't have Mark with me, and he's the tech guy. In this episode we chat about why athletes make great salespeople and why sometimes they don't

  6. 31

    Should You Drink at Business Events? Here’s What to Consider

    Should You Drink at Business Events? Here’s What to Consider When attending business events, the decision to drink (or not) can impact how you're perceived and perform. Here are the top three reasons to drink at business events, the top three reasons to abstain, and three tips to ensure you maintain a professional image if you do decide to have a drink. Understanding the pros and cons can help you make the right call for your career.

  7. 30

    From Leads to Referrals: Sales Success Blueprint

    "From Leads to Referrals: Sales Success Blueprint" dives deep into the critical differences between leads and referrals, offering actionable strategies to boost your sales success. Whether you're a sales professional looking to enhance your lead generation techniques or a business owner aiming to convert leads into valuable referrals, this podcast covers it all. Tune in to discover proven methods for building stronger client relationships, mastering sales funnels, and creating a referral-based sales pipeline that drives consistent growth. Ideal for anyone in sales, marketing, or business development.

  8. 29

    Mastering LinkedIn: Using AI and Tech Tools to Become a Center of Influence

    Take back your day from tech and use it to do more.

  9. 28

    How To Become a Center of Influence on LinkedIn

    During this episode, Mark and I give a few tips on how you can become a LinkedIn COI (center of influence)

  10. 27

    Four key takeaways from the book Never Split the Difference

    Mark and I review the book, Never Split the Difference

  11. 26

    Why You Should Join the MTSU Society for Professional Selling

    Are you a student at MTSU looking to build a successful career in sales? The MTSU Society for Professional Selling offers an incredible opportunity to kickstart your journey in the world of professional selling. Here’s why joining this dynamic organization can be a game-changer for your future.

  12. 25

    Five reasons to go find a mentor.

    Everyone needs a coach. During this episode, we discuss ways to find a mentor and why it is worth your time.

  13. 24

    How to Build Relationship with Luke Hilko of SILO

    I had a great conversation with one of our Center for Professional Selling corporate partners, Luke Hilko. He is an intelligent guy and an excellent partner for our program. SILO is focused on growing a fantastic company and looking to the future by investing in student success here at MTSU. I hope you enjoyed the chat as much as I did.

  14. 23

    Let's do great things at MTSU

    During this episode, we introduce you to two outstanding programs. First the Dale Carniege Program and then the Center for Professional Selling.

  15. 22

    Small Business Owners Are Salespeople

    Galen Longo, the director at MTSU TSBDC, joined us in a great conversation about why we feel that all small business owners are salespeople. What is the MTSU TSBDC? Here's your answer: The Tennessee Small Business Development Centers network, hosted by Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, TN, is an accredited member of the National Association of Small Business Development Centers and funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, participating universities and community colleges, and regional support partners. The sound is a little off. We'll correct that next time. Thanks

  16. 21

    Mastering Your Elevator Pitch with the STAR Interview Method

    In the dynamic world of professional networking and job interviews, having a polished elevator pitch is essential for making a memorable impression and standing out from the crowd. However, crafting a compelling pitch can be daunting without the right framework. We explore using the STAR interview method during the podcast as a powerful model for telling your story with impact and clarity.   What is the STAR Interview Method? The STAR interview method is a structured approach to answering behavioral interview questions by providing specific examples of past experiences. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and it's widely used by recruiters and hiring managers to evaluate candidates' skills, competencies, and fit for the role.

  17. 20

    Unlocking the Door: Strategies Sales Professionals Use to Secure Appointments

    Introduction: In the realm of sales, securing appointments with potential clients is the crucial first step towards building fruitful relationships and closing deals. However, in today's competitive landscape, getting that foot in the door requires a strategic approach and a mastery of various tactics. In this blog post, we'll explore the diverse methods and strategies employed by sales professionals to secure those coveted appointments and pave the way for successful engagements.

  18. 19

    Title: Nurturing Growth: The Power of Mentorship

    Introduction: In the journey of personal and professional development, the guidance of a mentor can be transformative. Whether navigating the complexities of academia, embarking on a new career path, or striving to achieve your goals, having a mentor by your side can make all the difference. In this blog post, we explore the profound impact of mentorship and delve into why it's a cornerstone of success in any endeavor.

  19. 18

    Elevating Sales Conversations: A Guide from Approach to Close

    Introduction: In the dynamic realm of sales, effective communication is the cornerstone of success. Each step of the sales conversation, from the initial approach to the final close, presents an opportunity to forge meaningful connections and drive deals forward. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key stages of the sales conversation and provide strategies to navigate them with finesse and confidence. Approach: The approach is the pivotal moment that sets the tone for the entire sales conversation. Whether it's a phone call, email, or face-to-face meeting, the approach should be tailored to captivate the prospect's attention and establish rapport. Personalization is paramount, as addressing the prospect by name and expressing genuine interest can lay the foundation for trust. Always confirm the allotted time, state your purpose clearly, verify if you are speaking with the correct contact, and inquire about any additional goals they may have. Discovery: Once rapport is established, it's time to dive deeper into the prospect's needs, challenges, and objectives during the discovery phase. This stage hinges on asking insightful questions and actively listening to uncover valuable insights. By understanding the prospect's pain points and goals, sales professionals can customize their pitch to resonate with the prospect's specific needs, enhancing the likelihood of a successful outcome. In our program, we implement the renowned S.P.I.N. technique for effective discovery. Presentation: Armed with a comprehensive understanding of the prospect's requirements, it's time to demonstrate how your product or service can address their needs effectively. The presentation should be concise, clear, and focused on highlighting the value proposition. Align the problems uncovered during discovery with the features of your offering that provide solutions. Leveraging storytelling techniques and real-life examples can help prospects visualize the benefits of your offering, making it more compelling and memorable. Close: The close represents the culmination of the sales conversation – the pivotal moment when the prospect commits to moving forward with the deal. While some may perceive the close as the most challenging part of the process, it's essential to approach it with confidence and conviction. Effective closing techniques involve summarizing key points, addressing any remaining objections, and outlining the next steps clearly to solidify the agreement. Conclusion: Mastering the sales conversation is a fundamental skill for sales professionals across all industries. By refining their approach, mastering the art of discovery, delivering impactful presentations, and executing successful closes, sales professionals can navigate the sales conversation with grace and assurance. With each interaction, they move closer to achieving their sales objectives and fostering enduring relationships with their customers.

  20. 17

    Reflecting on a Semester of Achievements: A Recap of Fall 2023 at the Center for Professional Selling

    As we begin another amazing semester at MTSU Jennings A. Jones College of Business, let's take a moment to celebrate the remarkable journey we've had during the Fall 2023 semester. This semester was filled with mentorship, competitions, networking, and invaluable learning experiences. Here's a highlight reel of the events that defined our fall semester

  21. 16

    Unlocking the Power of Referrals: When and How to Ask

    Referrals are the golden ticket in the world of sales. They allow you to fast-track your way to prospects by leveraging the pre-existing relationships of others. But the question arises: when is the right time to ask for referrals?  The straightforward answer is - all the time. However, let's delve into specific scenarios that warrant asking for a referral.

  22. 15

    The Seal-The-Deal Squad

    With over two decades of experience as a trainer and mentor to sales professionals, I have had the privilege of witnessing remarkable individuals both succeed and falter in the world of sales. What sets these two groups apart? The pivotal difference lies in the art of asking for the deal.  Picture this scenario: A diligent salesperson invests significant effort into securing a crucial meeting. They meticulously research and vet potential prospects, pose insightful questions to comprehend their needs, and dedicate themselves to crafting a tailored solution. They present their ideas with finesse, making the prospect the hero of the narrative. Yet, when it comes to the pivotal moment, they leave the room without uttering the most critical question: "Can we proceed?"  Every sales meeting should conclude with a clear outcome—either a resounding "yes," a definitive "no," or a defined plan for next steps. However, it is astonishing how often a salesperson neglects this fundamental step, letting their hard-earned opportunities slip away simply because they hesitated to ask for the deal.  In this episode, we review the art of asking for the deal.

  23. 14

    Delivering Compelling Sales Pitches with Confidence and Pizzazz

    The Crucial Role of Confidence in Sales Presentations  In the dynamic world of sales, the ability to deliver a pitch with confidence is nothing short of a make-or-break skill. Even the most seasoned sales professionals can falter if they rely solely on overconfidence and overlook the vital element of meticulous preparation. This oversight can potentially undermine all the diligent groundwork laid in the lead-up to that critical presentation moment.  Why is confidence such an indispensable asset in sales presentations? It is because your presentation is your moment to shine. It is your opportunity to highlight not just your product or service but the profound understanding you have cultivated regarding the prospect's unique needs. It is your stage to unveil the meticulously crafted solution you have designed with their specific requirements in mind.  Our Journey Towards Mastery  In this episode, we embark on a journey to master the art of delivering sales presentations marked by unwavering confidence and an irresistible charisma. We will traverse through various presentation styles commonly employed by adept sales professionals and offer a comprehensive breakdown of the fundamental elements that constitute a formal sales pitch. Additionally, we will delve into the intricacies of the Sales Presentation Boot Camp, a program personally conducted by the author, aimed at further honing your presentation skills. 

  24. 13

    Walking the Talk

    Delving into the realm of ethics and integrity prompts us to ponder their significance. In my view, ethics encompass the rules we choose to govern our lives, while integrity measures how steadfastly we uphold these principles. Let's simplify this by examining two contrasting perspectives on ethics. 

  25. 12

    Unpacking Professionalism in Sales: A Conversation with Entrepreneur Jonathan Harmon

    Recently, I had the pleasure of engaging in a profound conversation about professionalism with a local entrepreneur, Jonathan Harmon, during his visit to the Jones College of Business for Professional Week 2023. This event, showcasing our commitment to professionalism, is part of our broader effort to equip students with the 'It Factor' that employers actively seek. The Jones College of Business initiated its Professionalism Initiative in Fall 2018. This initiative has been a journey of collaboration and development, involving stakeholders, the Undergraduate Programs Committee, and a dedicated Professionalism Working Group. As a result, the faculty at the Jones College crafted a robust definition of professionalism, which now forms an integral part of our operational framework. Our ultimate aim is to make professionalism an inherent part of our organizational culture. At the Jones College of Business, we firmly believe that professionalism encompasses the following behaviors: A robust work ethic, evident through thorough preparation, punctuality, active participation, and sustained productivity. Respectful and courteous interactions with others, fostering a supportive and inclusive community. Upholding the highest ethical standards in all endeavors. Displaying professional demeanor through appropriate business attire, effective communication, and a poised disposition. Jonathan Harmon's professional journey is a testament to his dedication and adaptability. He began as an educator, imparting knowledge in economics and various business-related subjects at Blackman High School. His ambition to become an entrepreneur steered him toward the real estate industry, where he successfully established the J. Harmon Home Team under Keller Williams. Driven by his passions, Jonathan and his partners ventured into the realm of entrepreneurship once more, opening Cedar Glade Brews in 2021. This establishment has quickly evolved into a cherished community hub. Managing three Murfreesboro Airbnb rentals alongside his other ventures, Jonathan exemplifies versatility and astute business acumen. His involvement in various community boards and committees further highlights his dedication to community development. As a member of the Main Street Murfreesboro board and the Blue Raider Athletic Association, he continually contributes to the betterment of our community. Jonathan Harmon is an esteemed alumnus of Middle Tennessee State University, holding a bachelor's degree in Entrepreneurship and a master's degree in Business Education."

  26. 11

    Solving Customer Problems

    At this stage of the sales conversation, the salesperson's role takes center stage. After emphasizing the importance of allowing the prospect to speak for the majority of the interaction (at least 80%), it's now time for the salesperson to engage actively.  Features, Evidence, Benefits, and Agreement (FEEBA)  Now that we've established the importance of selecting relevant features and aligning them with the prospect's challenges, let's delve deeper into the FEEBA framework—a structured approach to presenting your solution effectively.  Features: The Foundation of Value Begin by identifying the specific features that directly address the problems unearthed during the discovery phase. These features serve as the foundation of your solution. Carefully choose those that offer the most direct and impactful resolution to the issues at hand. Remember, quality trumps quantity; it's better to highlight a few pivotal features rather than overwhelming the prospect with an exhaustive list.  Evidence (Visual): Painting a Picture To add depth and tangibility to your solution, leverage visual aids from your marketing materials. These could include diagrams, charts, infographics, or images that visually depict how the identified features interact to resolve the prospect's challenges. Visual evidence not only clarifies the technical aspects but also engages the prospect's imagination, making the solution more relatable.  Old School Wisdom: Word pictures are particularly important when telling a story. A word picture is a tool to help the prospect visualize and connect with the story.   Evidence (Verbal): Storytelling for Relevance Conveying your solution through a compelling narrative enhances its impact. Share a real-world story where a previous client encountered a similar challenge and effectively utilized the features you're presenting. Alternatively, explain how the prospects could apply these features to overcome their obstacles. This storytelling approach bridges the gap between theory and practical application, making your solution resonate deeply.  Benefits: Translating Features into Value At this stage, transition from the technical details (features) to the tangible advantages they offer (benefits). Translate the features into how they directly address the prospect's challenges and contribute to their goals. Emphasize the positive outcomes, such as increased efficiency, cost savings, improved productivity, or enhanced customer satisfaction. Benefits are what truly resonate with the prospect, as they illuminate the value your solution brings.  Agreement: Confirming Mutual Understanding Conclude your presentation by seeking agreement from the prospect. Invite them to share their thoughts on how the presented features align with their challenges and objectives. This engagement fosters a mutual understanding and encourages an open dialogue. By confirming that the features you've highlighted indeed provide a solution to their identified problem, you solidify the value of your offering.  Incorporating the FEEBA framework ensures a seamless flow in presenting your solution. It guides you from the fundamental features through the visual and verbal evidence, culminating in a strong articulation of the benefits your solution delivers. Finally, by seeking agreement, you establish a collaborative rapport with the prospect, paving the way for further discussions and potential commitment.  Remember, each element of the FEEBA framework plays a crucial role in constructing a compelling narrative that resonates with the prospect's needs, ensuring that your solution remains not just a set of features, but a transformative and value-driven proposition. 

  27. 10

    Overcoming Challenges in Sales Techniques for Overcoming Objections and Closing Deals

    In the realm of sales, there is an undeniable truth: unanimity is a rare gem. More often than not, disagreements and pushbacks are the norm. But here is the silver lining—when someone raises objections, they are engaged, and engagement is the fertile ground for transformation. In this chapter, we are delving into the art of overcoming objections, arming you with techniques to navigate objections and ultimately paving the path to successful closures. 

  28. 9

    The Storytelling Toolkit - Techniques for Captivating Your Audience and Closing More Deals

    Introduction: The Power of Stories in Sales  You have undoubtedly heard that stories hold a unique selling power, but what does that entail? To delve into the realm of captivating storytelling, let us revisit an age-old sales poem that offers profound wisdom: "If you want to sell Jim Jones what Jim Jones buys, you must first see Jim Jones through Jim Jones' eyes."  This timeless advice underscores a fundamental truth: understanding your prospects is the bedrock of successful sales endeavors. To grasp the essence of storytelling in sales, it is crucial to perceive your prospect's aspirations, challenges, and desires. This episode, "The Storytelling Toolkit," will equip you with techniques to craft narratives that resonate, engaging your audience and steering them towards favorable outcomes. 

  29. 8

    The Sales Discovery: Fun and Creative Ways to Discover Your Customers' Needs and Wants

    Let's take a moment to recap our journey so far. In episode two, we delved into the art of unlocking our full potential by adopting a sales-oriented mindset. Moving on to episode three, we recognized the importance of comprehending our own professional brand before immersing ourselves in the market. Remaining aligned with our brand became our guiding principle, a theme that carried over into episodes four and five, where we learned the crucial skill of identifying promising prospects. With this foundation, episode six detailed the strategic approach to securing valuable appointments.  Having successfully navigated these initial steps, we honed our communication prowess in episode seven, setting the stage for that all-important first impression, which we thoroughly explored in episode eight. Building upon this confidence, episode nine was dedicated to the nuances of professional networking, an indispensable facet of the sales landscape. As we progressed, episode ten provided invaluable insights into the art of crafting probing questions, instrumental in understanding and assisting our prospects effectively.  With a solidified professional brand, a well-researched and networked prospect base, thorough preparation, and an impactful initial impression, the time has come to delve into the realm of sales discovery. Within this episode, you will attain mastery in the art of posing questions to unearth your prospect's unique needs. The phase of sales conversation devoted to discovery, which follows the approach, represents an iterative process that we shall now explore in depth.    Sales Discovery: Let's dive into the realm of sales discovery and unveil its true essence. First, let's demystify what sales discovery is NOT. It is not the time for the salesperson to pounce on closing the deal, pushing a sale, or monopolizing the conversation. Contrary to common perception, successful salespeople are not the ones who dominate discussions. Rather, the discovery phase offers a unique chance for the salesperson to absorb the prospect's needs and desires. Imagine being in a conversation where someone speaks over you, dismissing your thoughts. Does that resonate positively? Certainly not.  During the sales discovery phase, the art is in asking questions and genuinely listening before posing further queries. My grandmother was a maestro at asking questions, yet she seldom allowed you to fully respond before diving in for more details. Properly conducting the sales discovery process involves mastering the pattern and pace of questioning. In this episode, we will delve into one of the various sales discovery approaches. While many companies have their preferred methods, if your organization lacks one, rest assured that the approach you learn here will serve you well. 

  30. 7

    The Art of Questioning: Unlocking Sales Success

    In the world of professional selling, the ability to ask the right questions is a superpower. Your questions are the keys that unlock valuable insights about your prospects. They guide you through the labyrinth of their needs, motivations, and concerns, ultimately leading you to successful sales outcomes. The types of questions you choose to wield can vary, depending on the situation and the information you seek. It's akin to a craftsman selecting the perfect tool for a specific task. In the sales arena, open-ended and closed-ended questions are two key tools in your arsenal.

  31. 6

    Making Friends and Influencing Clients: The Networking Advantage

    At first glance, networking may seem intimidating. However, when approached correctly, it becomes an incredibly powerful tool for achieving success in both your personal and professional life. Networking allows you to make positive connections and build strong relationships that can lead to valuable opportunities.    The key to successful networking lies in creating and cultivating relationships with other professionals. This allows you to build a powerful reputation, establish credibility, and increase the likelihood of being offered the opportunities you seek.    In today's fast-paced business world, it is easy to forget the power of face-to-face interaction amidst technology and automation. However, the truth remains that people do business with people they know, like, and trust. Building and nurturing relationships is crucial for success, regardless of whether you are an entrepreneur, executive, or aspiring professional. So, as we chat during this episode, remember that networking goes beyond exchanging business cards or adding contacts on social media. It is about creating genuine connections and fostering a supportive community that can assist you on your journey. Ultimately, the human-to-human interactions make all the difference in business and life.    This episode aims to help you develop your networking skills, enabling you to make the most of your professional relationships. We will cover everything from understanding the basics of networking to harnessing the power of social media and personal branding. Additionally, we will delve into the importance of goal setting and the benefits of utilizing networking platforms like LinkedIn.    By the end of this episode, you will have a solid understanding of networking fundamentals and how to leverage them to your advantage. You will be able to create and nurture relationships with other professionals that will propel you towards achieving your goals. 

  32. 5

    How to Make Your Sales Approach Sing and Dance Its Way to Success.

    In the world of professional selling, the saying "You only get one opportunity to make a first impression" holds true. Within seconds, people form their initial judgments about you, which can significantly influence their decisions. I cannot tell you the number of times I wished I had a redo, an opportunity to start over on the conversation. Things I did not know to do, questions that I did not know to ask, and times that I misread the prospect. I learned a great deal during my first sales job where all I did was cold call in person. During this episode, we hope to share the lessons I learned the hard way and give you the advantage of having a plan for a successful sales conversation.     The Approach: The crucial phase at the beginning of a sales conversation is known as the approach, as it sets the tone for the entire interaction. To ensure a successful first impression, it is essential to have a well-thought-out plan of action. Let's break down the approach into three key components: the greeting, building rapport, and transitioning into business. It's important to note that the approach is not the time to push for a sale; instead, it is an opportunity to establish a solid business relationship. 

  33. 4

    Breaking Down Barriers: How to Overcome Communication Obstacles and Connect with Your Customers

    When it comes to communication, it involves more than just delivering a message. It encompasses a multitude of elements that must be considered when crafting your message. A fundamental principle of communication is that the sender holds the responsibility for ensuring the message is understood by the receiver. If this is true, then why don’t people understand what you tell them?  In this episode, we will delve into the vital skill of adapting your communication style to suit different personalities and individual communication preferences. You will learn how to harness the influence of body language and nonverbal cues to build strong rapport and establish trust with your prospects. Furthermore, we will explore various communication formats and the potential obstacles that can impede understanding, often referred to as "noise." By acknowledging and addressing these barriers, you can ensure clear and effective communication. 

  34. 3

    The Appointment Generator: Techniques for Securing Meetings and Building Relationships

    Getting the appointment is where salespeople earn their living. It is the hardest part of the job, whereas the sales conversation is where salespeople have fun. This episode will explain various sales tactics to help you effectively secure appointments with potential clients. This activity is known as prospecting. As you may remember, my children told their friends that their dad drank coffee and made friends as a living. All that coffee drinking resulted in making a lot of sales. During this episode, you will gain a deeper understanding of the prospecting techniques salespeople use.  

  35. 2

    Beginning the Path to Yes

    The selling profession is often misunderstood and underestimated by many people unfamiliar with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field. My own children, for example, had no idea what I did as a salesperson when they were growing up. They only knew that I drank coffee and made friends with different people. While this is partly true, there is much more to the sales profession than just being friendly and pleasant. Selling involves a systematic process of identifying, qualifying, presenting, negotiating, and closing opportunities with potential customers.  A common metaphor for the sales profession is that of an iceberg. The visible part, which stands for the actual interaction with the customer, is only a tiny fraction of the whole. Behind the scenes, a lot of preparation and effort goes into making a successful sale. A salesperson must work hard to secure an appointment, master their product or service knowledge, and research their prospect's needs and preferences. These are the hidden aspects of sales that require dedication and skill.  In this episode, we will introduce you to the sales pipeline or funnel, a tool that helps salespeople manage their time and activities. The pipeline or funnel represents the different stages of a sales cycle, from finding prospects to closing deals. The pipeline is visualized horizontally and displayed vertically, but the underlying idea remains the same: to move prospects from one stage to the next until they become customers. I will explain each step and its importance for success while also introducing common terms and definitions used in the sales profession. As a salesperson, the pipeline was a wonderful tool to helped keep the sales process moving. It was very satisfying. 

  36. 1

    LinkedIn, Your Storefront Window to the Main Street of Business

    In the digital era, your LinkedIn profile is more than just a page; it's your storefront to the main street of business opportunities! Join us for an enlightening episode as we uncover the immense potential of LinkedIn and how it can be a game-changing platform for your professional success. We'll delve into why every ambitious professional should harness the power of LinkedIn. From expanding your network to showcasing your expertise, this platform offers many benefits that can propel your career to new heights. Our expert hosts will walk you through the "LinkedIn Builder Checklist" - a comprehensive guide designed to help you optimize your profile and present yourself in the best light possible. Learn valuable tips on crafting an impactful headline, compelling summary, and showcasing accomplishments. (Click here to complete the LinkedIn Builder Checklist.) Discover how to leverage LinkedIn as a dynamic networking tool and build meaningful connections with industry leaders, potential clients, and like-minded professionals. Unlock the secrets to engaging content creation and learn how to position yourself as a thought leader in your field. Whether you're a recent graduate stepping into the professional world or a seasoned sales expert seeking to broaden your horizons, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will elevate your LinkedIn presence and open doors to exciting opportunities.

  37. 0

    Your Pitch

    Are you ready to conquer the infamous question, "What do you do?" in under 60 seconds and leave a lasting impression? Join us for an episode brimming with practical tips and techniques to craft an engaging and intriguing pitch that captivates your audience! In the world of sales, mastering the art of a compelling pitch is a game-changer. Whether you're at a networking event, social gathering, or a business meeting, your ability to concisely and interestingly describe what you do can open doors to exciting opportunities. Our expert hosts will walk you through the step-by-step process of developing your pitch, highlighting your unique value proposition, and making a memorable impact. Learn from successful sales professionals as they share their personal pitch stories and the do's and don'ts of pitching.

  38. -1

    Crafting Your Compelling Brand Story

    Pour yourself a cup of inspiration as we embark on an exciting journey of self-discovery and personal branding in our second episode! Before any professional salesperson can make an indelible impact on others, they must first understand who they are and identify their unique superpower. Join us as we craft a compelling brand story that will set you apart from the crowd and leave a lasting impression on your audience. In this episode, our expert hosts will guide you through unraveling your authentic self, discovering your strengths, and identifying what makes you stand out in the competitive sales landscape.

  39. -2

    The Sales Mindset

    Brew a cup of ambition and get ready to unlock the secrets of the Sales Mindset in our first episode! In this power-packed session, we'll introduce you to the transformative world of sales and establish a fundamental principle: everyone sells! Whether you're in a traditional sales role or not, the Sales Mindset is a game-changer for achieving personal and professional success.

  40. -3

    What to Expect.

    Get ready for a podcast journey that's all about unlocking your sales potential! Join us next week as we kick off the "Drink Coffee, Make Friends" podcast. Episode 1 dives into what you can anticipate from this exciting series – insights, strategies, and a fresh perspective on building your sales career. Stay tuned for a dose of motivation and empowerment! #trueblue @mtsu_business

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Level up your sales game with our podcast! Join us for engaging discussions on sales techniques, interviews with industry leaders, and updates from Middle Tennessee State University's Center for Professional Selling. Tune in each week to learn from experienced hosts and guests, and be part of our vibrant sales community, Subscribe now on major platforms!

HOSTED BY

Thom Coats

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How many episodes does Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) have?

Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) currently has 40 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) about?

Level up your sales game with our podcast! Join us for engaging discussions on sales techniques, interviews with industry leaders, and updates from Middle Tennessee State University's Center for Professional Selling. Tune in each week to learn from experienced hosts and guests, and be part of our...

How often does Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) release new episodes?

Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) has 40 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do)?

You can listen to Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do)?

Drink Coffee, Make Friends (That's What Salespeople Do) is created and hosted by Thom Coats.
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