Account Management (a tactical guide to success)

New to the role of Account (or Client) Management? Want to learn specific tactics to help you be a better client manager? You’ve come to the right place. Account Management (a tactical guide to success) is the podcast for what happens after the sale. We offer sound advice for Account Management professionals who want to sharpen their skills and grow in the role. We focus on real-world advice and tactics for success.

Negotiations Part 1

In this episode, Fred and John review the initial stages of negotiation:1) Knowing the types of negotiations2) Preparation - ZOPA, BATNA, goal-setting3) Books we recommend

11-23
56:57

DISC for Account Managers

In this episode, Fred and John discuss using DISC as an Account Manager:Review of what DISC means and how to use as an Account ManagerFred and John's DISC profilesWe attempt to guess famous people's profilesAlso a discussion of Pop-Tarts

10-19
51:10

How to Work with Internal teams

In this episode, Fred and John discuss:Misconceptions on how to work with internal teamsWhat to do instead

10-05
49:17

Finance and Accounting for Account Managers

In this episode, Fred and John discuss:Mindset of Accounting and Finance (vs. Account Managers)Finance's primary concernsHow to interpret the output of Finance and Accounting as an Account Manager

09-28
52:54

How to Successfully Land An Account Manager Role

In this episode, Fred and John discuss the best ways to be successful applying for a role as an Account Manager including: Getting your foot in the door Resume Interviewing First three months

09-26
48:50

Wrap up of the basics of Account Management

In this episode, Fred and John do a wrap-up of topics from the book.  Including: Be more than a pass through Be a student of the game Be a person of character Resources available for further study

02-17
47:27

Communications (Part 2)

In this episode, Fred and John continue the conversation about the right way to approach communication with your clients.  Including: -Communication with emotional context -Knowing your audience -Using listening as a communication tool

07-11
44:58

Communications (Part 1)

In this episode, Fred and John discuss the right way to approach communication with your clients.  Including: - When to communicate - Dangers of email - Being positive - Grammar and syntax

02-08
49:20

The Art of Client Entertainment

In this episode, Fred and John discuss the (sometimes tricky) art of client entertainment.  Including: - Basics of approach to the process - Rules of the road - Difficult situations including harassment

12-11
01:08:16

Meetings and Agendas

In this episode, Fred and John discuss the finer points of putting together a successful client meeting.  How to prepare, how to ensure no technical failures, and how to project presence.  Also what to do after the meeting to ensure successful execution.  

11-01
46:47

How to Travel

One of the least discussed aspects of Account Management is how to approach travel.  In this episode, Fred and John discuss the three commandments of business travel: 1. Pack light and never check your bag 2. Think through logistics 3. Coordinate internal parties (i.e. herd the cats) Plus discussion of appropriate dress code.

08-23
30:41

Lead By Example

In this episode, Fred and John discuss how to lead by example as an Account Manager.  Discussion of the strategies and tactics to demonstrate leadership in your organization and with your clients.

07-11
48:39

Remind the Client Why You are There

In this episode, Fred and John discuss the basics of reinforcing your value proposition to your client.  Including a deep-dive into the seven-step QBR (Quarterly Business Review) process.  Also, a discussion of the virtues of Fred Water.

06-05
46:03

Embracing Risk with Yes

In this episode, Fred and John cover how an Account Manager should think about when to say yes to client ideas.  How do you know when it's ok to say yes?  What should be your process if you are not certain?  When should you take risks?  In addition, Fred and John discuss some negotiation resources.  

03-27
36:37

When the Deal isn't Done

This podcast covers what you do when you as an Account Manager realize there are still contractual or negotiation open items with your client... the 'deal isn't done'.  We discuss how to approach tactically and strategically.  Also, listener mailbag!

03-02
54:58

How to Think about Growth

Fred and John review the skills needed to grow account management clients including: Project management Business reviews/goalsetting Relationship maps Goalsetting Plus, listener mailbag!

02-02
46:29

Special Guest Episode: Brandon Horne

In this special episode, Fred and John talk to Brandon Horne about his success as an account manager and advice he gives to new account managers.

11-30
44:48

Special Episode: How to Build an Account Management team

In this special episode, Fred and John take a break from reviewing Account Management basics and instead discuss an important topic for managers and leaders: how to build an Account Management team.   Important tips include: Hire business owners Identify the right talents Don't worry about hiring industry experts Teach how to approach the role

11-11
39:55

Creating Connections and Seeking to Understand

Fred and John review concepts from ""A Dragon Walks Into a Meeting" Chapter 2.  In this episode, we review how to create connections from a tactical perspective including: Learning about the client as a task The first five minutes How to interact with senior executives Business etiquette

09-21
01:00:51

Special Guest Episode: Christy Hyde

In this episode, Fred and John talk with special guest Christy Hyde about her experience as an account manager leader and advice she gives to other account managers.

08-03
37:52

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