Is outbound sales really dead, or are we just doing it wrong? In this episode of Topline, AJ and Asad dive into one of the most debated topics in B2B sales—whether outbound still works in today’s market. Asad argues that companies with strong product-market fit can still crush outbound, while AJ pushes back, saying it’s no longer the best way to scale. They break down cold call connect rates, changing sales tactics, and why partner-led growth and brand marketing are taking center stage.

 

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Key Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction

(05:00) - Board Meeting Insights and Dynamics

(15:08) - Investor Sentiment and Market Challenges

(19:56) - The State of Outbound Sales

(30:12) - Debating Outbound Sales Effectiveness

(34:06) - The Evolution of Status Symbols in Tech

(39:33) - Shifting Metrics of Success

(43:13) - The Changing Landscape of Startup Equity

(50:29) - The Life's Work Mentality vs. Exit Strategy

(56:27) - The Role of Human Interaction in AI

(01:00:27) - Lessons from Recent Failures