Show Notes

Strategic WhaleSale Approach-
Alan and Lisa discussed the concept of “WhaleSales,” which involves targeting large, high-value clients to maximize revenue and efficiency. Lisa shared her experience of landing a significant whale deal that transformed her company’s growth and stability, emphasizing the importance of alignment with the C-suite and strategic goals. They highlighted that whale sales should be an intentional strategy for businesses and not an accident, with Lisa noting that her company made it a cultural standard to pursue such deals annually.

WhaleSale Strategy Insights-
Alan and Lisa discussed the concept of “landing a whale” in sales, emphasizing that it involves making friends and providing value rather than killing opportunities. Alan shared his experience of undervaluing a sale early in his career and highlighted the importance of changing one’s philosophy to pursue larger deals. Lisa agreed and added that internal opportunities within existing client bases should also be considered. They discussed the need for relevance and preparation when targeting larger buyers, with Lisa emphasizing the importance of having relevant case studies and experiences. The conversation concluded with Lisa questioning why more people do not incorporate whale sales into their business planning.

Value-Driven Career and Deal Making-
Alan discussed his concept of career progression, from surviving to thriving, and emphasized the importance of building value rather than focusing solely on pricing to secure “whale deals.” Lisa shared her experience of using whale deals to attract top talent and boost morale, while also highlighting the non-financial benefits of such deals. Both agreed that focusing on value and expertise, rather than just financial gain, is crucial for long-term success.

Strategies for Lucrative Whale Sales-
Alan discussed the three parts of a sale: the original payment, expansion business, and referral business, emphasizing that “whale sales” offer more lucrative opportunities due to larger suppliers and customers. He suggested focusing on creating more value in the marketplace rather than just increasing revenues, as this could lead to significant revenue growth.Lisa shared a personal anecdote about encouraging a friend to secure a corporate client to boost their small retail business, highlighting the strategy’s potential for businesses of all sizes.

Whale Sales Strategy Insights-
Alan and Lisa discussed the concept of “whale sales,” which involve large, infrequent, and long-lasting transaction. Alan emphasized the importance of meeting senior clients, preparing thoroughly, and facing fears to succeed in high-stakes sales. Lisa highlighted how whale deals can create a defensible moat and increase business value. They agreed to collaborate further, producing articles, videos, and other content to help others implement a whale sales strategy.

Alan Weiss’s The Uncomfortable Truth® is a weekly broadcast from “The Rock Star of Consulting,” Alan Weiss, who holds forth with his best (and often most contrarian) ideas about society, culture, business, and personal growth. His 60+ books in 12 languages, and his travels to, and work in, 50 countries contribute to a fascinating and often belief-challenging 20 minutes that might just change your next 20 years.

Introduction to the show recorded by Connie Dieken