The Trend Report

What if building meaningful relationships could revolutionize your sales strategy? Join me, Sid Meadows, and my guest Marianne Hewitt from SalesStar, as we explore the profound impact of relationship-driven sales in the office furniture industry. In this episode, we highlight the mutual benefits of the "give, give, ask" philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients on a personal level to foster genuine connections. Our conversation touches on the pitfalls of one-sided relationships and reveals how slowing down to truly connect can lead to more successful and fulfilling sales outcomes.

Navigating the post-COVID sales landscape poses unique challenges, especially with limited in-person interactions. Hear Marianne’s journey from designer to a sales consultant, and how her diverse experiences have shaped her approach to building relationships with A&D firms today. Despite the constraints of virtual meetings, Marianne offers actionable insights to effectively engage with clients and navigate the evolving dynamics of the sales environment.

Visibility and authenticity have never been more crucial. From leveraging LinkedIn to attending industry events, we discuss strategies to stand out and be remembered. Marianne and I also delve into the importance of lifelong learning, avoiding perfectionism, and using tools like the effort vs. impact graph for productivity. If you're looking to elevate your sales game and build meaningful relationships, this episode is packed with invaluable advice to help you succeed.


Resources

Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek https://www.amazon.com/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591846447

15 Minutes of Fame by Sid Meadows -  https://www.sidmeadows.com/blog/15-minutes-of-fame

Episode 106 - Leveraging LinkedIn with Joshua B. Lee https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode106

Episode 99 - Leveraging Personal Branding and Yoga with Danika Leeks https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode89

Connect with Maryanne

SalesStar - https://salesstar.com/teams/maryanne-hewitt/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryanne-hewitt-47a10726/
Email - [email protected]

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

What if merging two industry giants could revolutionize an entire market? Join us as we chat with Amy Edington, Product Manager for Commercial at Cyncly, who takes us through the thrilling creation of Cyncly from the merger of 2020 and CompuSoft. Amy paints a vivid picture of how this fusion resulted in a global powerhouse, expanding their offerings to encompass everything from commercial solutions to windows, doors, glass, and flooring. She dives into Cyncly's shift towards cloud-based solutions and the integral role of high-quality content in the design process.

Amy's personal journey is equally compelling. Starting her career at Haworth, she navigated the tumultuous waters of the market crash and the COVID-19 pandemic, which eventually led her to her current key role at Cyncly. Amy shares invaluable insights from her work with industry titans like Steelcase and Herman Miller, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a product manager. The passion she has for her role shines through as she discusses the exhilaration of sprint reviews and the constant drive to meet market demands efficiently.

The episode also dives into the transformative power of visualization technology in client communication. Amy shares how advancements in tools like cut sheets have made it easier to explain complex design concepts to clients. The conversation shifts to the importance of maintaining clean data in the age of AI, and the evolving "technology, process, people" model that is redefining job roles and increasing efficiency. Amy emphasizes the critical role of networking events like NeoCon, and warmly invites listeners to connect with her for ideas, support, or new features. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the future of business operations and design technology.


Resources

Viewpoint Magazine - https://viewpointmag.com/

Episode 131 - Uncovering Your Genius Spark with Rex Miller https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode131

Episode 139 - Genius Spark Part 2 with Rex Miller -  https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode139

Episode 142 - The Post COVID Workplace with David Stella https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode142

Connect with Amy:

Cyncly - https://www.cyncly.com/
Email - [email protected]
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cynclyco/

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

What if your ability to understand your customers could make or break your career? Today, we uncover a transformative experience from over 20 years ago that reshaped my entire approach to business research. Join me as we explore the three critical C's of business research: customers, competitors, and colleagues. This framework, born from a pivotal project win, can revolutionize how you gather and leverage information to gain a competitive edge.

In this episode of our "10 to Win" series on the Trend Report, I share how meticulous research led my team to truly understand a client's culture and secure a major project. We'll dive into practical tips and actionable strategies to streamline your research process, making it easier than ever to gather essential information. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, these insights will empower you to enhance your research skills and drive your business forward. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your strategy and propel your business to new heights!

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Can technology revolutionize the office furniture industry? Join us on the Trend Report as we explore this question with Katherine D'Zmura Friedman, Co-Founder and CEO of Thumbprint. Katherine shares her innovative vision of transforming the design and specification process for commercial furniture through a groundbreaking cloud-based platform. Get ready to discover how advancements in AI and automation are setting the stage for a seismic shift in the industry, promising to alleviate the immense stress associated with furniture design.

We also unpack the intricacies of creating a universal data model to streamline product options from myriad manufacturers, despite varying terminologies. Learn how Thumbprint's cloud-based solutions offer designers unprecedented flexibility and accessibility, even on portable devices like iPads, bridging the gap between sales and design. This integrated approach not only simplifies workflows but also enhances collaboration, allowing designers to meet tight deadlines and unrealistic client expectations with greater ease.

Finally, delve into Thumbprint’s powerful features, from photorealistic 3D room drawings to detailed bills of materials and executive summaries. Katherine passionately discusses her journey and dedication to the furniture industry, reflecting on the satisfaction of seeing a project come together flawlessly. With Thumbprint, A&D firms, dealers, and manufacturers can expect to shorten project cycles, improve client engagement, and elevate the overall design experience.

If you share a love for innovation and craftsmanship in office furniture design, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Connect with Katherine:

Thumbprint Furniture - https://www.thumbprintfurniture.com/
Email - [email protected]
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-d-zmura-friedman-18884962/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thumbprintfurniture/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/thumbprintfurniture/

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Ever feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of decisions you face each day? I'm here to help you navigate the labyrinth of choices with ease and precision. In our latest 10 to Win segment, I break down decision-making into four digestible steps, ensuring you're equipped to tackle anything from the mundane to the monumental. 

I'm sharing personal experiences and posing critical questions to  guide you through assessing the gravity of their decisions and sheds light on the multifaceted outcomes beyond success or failure.

As you tune into this episode, you'll uncover practical strategies that promise to fortify your ability to make informed, confident decisions that align with your personal and professional goals. Whether it's about hiring a new team member, launching a fresh program, or pivoting your strategy, I'm sharing tools for thoughtful deliberation and encourages a trial-and-error approach to refine your decision-making prowess. 

It's not just about choosing the right path but also embracing the learning curve each decision offers. Get ready to make decisions that not only shape your life but drive growth and success in your business.

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Have you ever considered the silent tales an office chair might tell if given a voice? This episode welcomes the incomparable Dominic Lawson, a maestro of the podcasting world, to spin an extraordinary yarn where our protagonist is none other than an office chair.

He's taking us on a journey through time with the Anderson family, as their business flourishes from the post-war era to the present day, while an unassuming chair bears witness to every triumph, trial, and transition. As Dominic unveils this narrative, he deftly illustrates the profound impact of leadership, adaptability, and the resilience of the human spirit in business.

As the tale unfolds, the chair emerges as a character imbued with the legacy of the Andersons—a testament to the family's grit and values. With every generation it supports, the chair forges an emotional bond, symbolizing not just a tool of the trade but a cherished partner in the company's saga.

Ultimately, this episode transcends the mere discussion of office furniture, as we pay homage to "The Silent Partner," an exhibit that encapsulates endurance, continuity, and the silent stories of servitude. Dominic Lawson's storytelling prowess illuminates the powerful connections we forge with the objects that populate our daily lives, leaving us with a renewed appreciation for the mundane yet meaningful companions of our workspaces.

Connect with Dominic Lawson:

Black is America Podcast - https://www.blackisamericapodcast.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominiclawson/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/therealdominiclawson/

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Embark with me on a transformative exploration of workplace strategy and design with the insightful David Stella from Cresa Real Estate.. Together, we unravel the complexities of creating office spaces that not only reflect but also enhance company culture and philosophy in our post-COVID reality. This episode is a treasure trove for those seeking to understand the intricate dance between data analytics and interior design, as David shares his journey from the world of architecture to the forefront of reimagining the modern workspace.

We've all seen the evolution of office environments, from the traditional, hierarchical setups to the now ubiquitous open-plan designs. But where do we stand today, especially for the introverts among us who often find such spaces challenging? David and I tackle this question head-on, highlighting the technology-fueled rise of dynamic workspaces that cater to all personality types and work styles.

Our conversation doesn't shy from the nuances of global work cultures and the financial implications of embracing the new wave of hybrid work models that prioritize employee well-being and productivity.

Closing our robust discussion, we don't just talk about change; we address how to implement it effectively. David delves into the critical role of change management, the nuances of generational preferences in workplace design, and the imperative of fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in our offices.

We wrap up with a forward-looking perspective on how the furniture industry can partner with strategists like us to craft purposeful, hybrid workplaces. Tune in for a session packed with actionable insights and stories that will inspire anyone looking to lead their business into a future where office design is about much more than just aesthetics.

Links and Resources:

Tekinon Untethered - https://www.teknion.com/untethered

Connect with David Stella:

Cresa - https://www.cresa.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-b-stella/

Email - [email protected]

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Stepping into the studio with Susan Pilato of Mantra Inspired Furniture was like opening a treasure chest of wisdom on the enduring value of solid wood furniture. Susan, with her wealth of knowledge and a heart full of passion, peeled back the layers of the commercial furniture world, revealing why a shift back to quality and sustainability isn't just a trend—it's a necessity. Her tale of transformation, from noticing a void in the market to creating a brand that proudly collaborates with skilled Amish and Mennonite artisans, is a masterclass in innovation and cultural respect.

Our discussion transcended the tactile world of furniture and ventured into the intangible yet potent legacies our families leave behind. Susan's eight life mantras, a gift from her father, have shaped her into a formidable force in an industry craving change. We delved into the power of marketing, the art of sales, and the unshakable support system that buoys women in today's business landscape. This isn't just a conversation; it's a heartfelt exploration of how the lessons of yesterday can forge the success of tomorrow.

As we wrapped our engaging session, the broader implications of diversity and inclusion within the industry came to the forefront, challenging us to be more than bystanders in the quest for equity. I shared my personal stake in this mission—as a spouse, a parent, and an ally—and together we unraveled strategies to attract diverse talent to fields that have remained all too homogenous. Be sure to join us at Neocon, where Susan and Mantra Inspired Furniture will bring their latest innovations, and a reminder that kindness is the language we should all be fluent in. Let's make each day count, and let these stories inspire you to carve your own path in the world.

Links & Resources

Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant - https://www.amazon.com/Hidden-Potential-Science-Achieving-Greater/dp/0593653149

Connect with Susan:

Mantra Inspired Furniture - https://www.mantrainspiredfurniture.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mantrainspiredfurniture/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mantrainspiredfurniture
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/mantrainspiredfurniture/
Susan’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-pilato-2835773/

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Ready to revolutionize your approach in the office furniture industry? I'm here to guide you down the path from being another furniture supplier to becoming a leading solutions provider. Let's challenges the status quo, encouraging a leap from safety into the realm of daring innovation. 

Also, don't forget the power of collective wisdom—sharing experiences, strategies, and outcomes is the fuel that drives our industry forward. As we venture into uncharted territories of office design and functionality, the strength found in community feedback and communication becomes clear. 

Take away actionable insights and join the conversation; this isn't just an episode, it's a call to connect, share, and grow together. Let's redefine what it means to excel in the office furniture industry and create spaces that are as innovative as they are functional. Don't miss this transformative discussion that's not just about chairs and desks, but about shaping the future of workspaces.

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Do you ever find yourself wondering what happened to that childhood spark, the one that made you curious and bold? Join us as we sit down with Rex Miller to reignite that lost brilliance and tackle the 'kryptonites' that hold us back. We reminisce about youthful passions—my affinity for music and construction—and examine how these interests mold our adult pursuits. 

Creating a space where team members feel secure enough to take risks and admit mistakes can be as complex as a dance requiring both grace and precision. In our thoughtful conversation, we delve into the adversarial nature of certain industries, like construction, where the prevalence of distrust can thwart team progression. We share insights into the critical importance of recognizing each person's unique contributions, drawing parallels to how a football team approaches their preseason. Throughout, Rex Miller, a three-time guest, offers actionable advice on fostering trust and psychological safety within professional teams.

The final act of our dialogue explores the intricate balance of being a 'connector' and leading with empathy. I reflect on my journey, the leadership style that emerges from a blend of strategic thinking and relator skills, and the challenges of managing energy in an increasingly digital world.  The narrative weaves together past and present, offering a blend of self-awareness and practical leadership advice, ensuring that by the end of our episode, you're equipped to lead with a renewed understanding of your strengths and vulnerabilities.

Links & Resources

Episode 131 - Uncovering Your Genius Spark with Rex Miller - https://www.sidmeadows.com/episode131
Sir Ken Robinson Ted Talk - https://www.ted.com/talks/sir_ken_robinson_do_schools_kill_creativity?language=en

Connect with Rex:
Rex Miller - https://rexmiller.com/
The Resilience Lab Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-resilience-lab/id1615776491
Email - http://[email protected]/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mrexmiller/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rexmiller/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBqoDmlda4AN5slbA39R34A

Connect with Sid:

www.sidmeadows.com
Embark CCT on Facebook
Sid on LinkedIn
Sid on Instagram
Sid on YouTube
Sid on Clubhouse - @sidmeadows

The Trend Report introduction music is provided by Werq by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4616-werq License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/