coming up — feast on some hard-earned wisdom as we welcome our guest, a seasoned professional who’s weathered nearly two decades in the industry's trenches. from door-to-door sales to business development leadership in major startups, his experiences are a treasure trove of insights. he illuminates the harsh realities of the field and shares a real-life story of the challenging dynamics that developed between him and the newly appointed, less-than-supportive CRO.

sales isn't a path for the faint-hearted. it's a rollercoaster ride of intense emotions, requiring resilience and a knack for understanding what your prospects are really looking for. we dig deep into these challenges, exploring why making a great first impression can sometimes be paralyzing. we also turn the spotlight on the enigmatic world of business development. far from being a soft skill, it's a meticulous blend of art and science that's often misunderstood and underrated. we discuss the misconception that the younger generation can excel in this field with little to no training, and why it's crucial that organizations provide the right training and support for their sales development teams to thrive.

leadership is another key theme in this episode. striking a balance between focusing on tasks and people is a delicate art, and we dive into the concept of situational leadership as a potential solution. we also discuss the pressure of wanting to be liked as a leader and how to navigate the complex task of relationship building. whether you're a seasoned professional or a newbie in sales, this episode is peppered with stories, lessons, and tips to help you level up.