Mini episode: Sales Core Competencies for Startups

Investing in skilled sales professionals or managers is essential for business growth. Knowing the right qualifications and characteristics to hire for should happen before any interview takes place.

In this mini episode of Extraordinary Pursuits, Christy Johnson speaks with John O'Brien, the founder, CEO, and managing partner of Sales Talent Group. They discuss the most necessary qualifications for the first hire in a startup, including cultural fit, adaptability, strong communication skills, passion for the product, willingness to take risk, alignment with the vision and mission, and a successful track record.

John and Christy highlight core competencies and behaviors to look for, such as being a top performer and having proficiency in the company's tech stack. They conclude with a conversation about attitude, aptitude, and desire as essential qualities for success in sales.

Timestamps:

• [02:38] Cultural Fit, Adaptability, and Communication Skills
• [03:06] Passion, Risk Orientation, and Alignment
• [03:36] Core Competencies and Behaviors
• [04:34] Attitude, Aptitude, and Desire in Sales

Points of Wisdom:

• "One of the big headlines is the cultural part...talking about an entrepreneurial spirit, because if there is only three or four members, the resources are lean and mean."
• "You need the ability to take on risk and understand it and work in an environment of chaos and madness and be okay with it."

About John O’Brien:

A seasoned executive in the field of sales, John specializes in placements across the United States. As the Founder, CEO, and Managing Partner of Sales Talent Group, he oversees the day-to-day operations of the Professional Sales Search Division, focusing on both outside and inside sales professionals across various leadership levels. With a track record of success, John has consistently ranked in the top three among over 600 nationwide sales professionals during his 15-year tenure at Lanier Worldwide. His experience includes roles such as Sales Manager in New Orleans, Louisiana, National Sales Trainer, and Director of Marketing & Sales Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnsalestalentgroup/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sales-talent-group/

Website: https://salestalentgroup.com/

BIP Ventures

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