February 15, 2024
Kevin Reed Jr.: From Gridiron to Sales Success
In a recent episode of Merchants of Change, host JR welcomed Kevin Reed Jr., a former football player who successfully transitioned into a sales career. Kevin’s journey from the field to the office offers valuable lessons for athletes considering a similar path.
From Football Dreams to Real-World Realities
Kevin’s athletic career started with a significant milestone: receiving a scholarship offer after three years in junior college. This moment was a turning point for him, eventually leading him to play at Southern Illinois University. Kevin’s journey didn’t stop there. He experienced the fast-paced world of the CFL and even ventured into professional sports in Australia, playing both American football and rugby.
Transitioning to Sales
After returning to the U.S., Kevin’s career shift began at Apple Retail, where he honed skills in open-ended questions, objection handling, and lead qualification. This retail experience served as a solid foundation for his leap into software sales. Kevin joined SignalAI as an SDR, where his athletic background and Apple training set him apart.
Overcoming Initial Challenges
Kevin’s first cold call experience was daunting. He shared a memorable story of hanging up in panic when a high-profile prospect answered. Despite this rocky start, he emphasized the importance of practice and repetition, drawing parallels to his sports training. “Practice makes perfect,” he noted, highlighting how the persistence learned in sports translated to his sales career.
Building a Routine and Embracing Mentorship
Kevin underscored the importance of having a structured routine, similar to an athlete’s training schedule. Planning his day the night before and blocking out specific times for tasks helped him stay organized and focused. He also stressed the value of mentorship, advising new sales professionals to seek leaders they admire and can learn from, as these relationships can significantly impact their growth.
Connecting Sports and Sales
Kevin believes that the competitive nature and resilience developed in sports are crucial for success in sales. He advised athletes transitioning to sales to leverage their drive and dedication. “Going after someone for months and booking a call can be just as rewarding as achieving a sports milestone,” he said. This competitive edge, coupled with the ability to handle rejection and persist, makes athletes well-suited for sales roles.
Advice for New Sales Professionals
For those considering a career in sales, Kevin’s advice is clear:
Seek Strong Leadership: Choose a company with mentors who exhibit leadership qualities and can provide guidance.
Develop a Routine: Plan your days meticulously to maximize productivity and stay on track.
Embrace Relentlessness: Be relentless in your pursuit of goals. The effort and persistence will pay off.
Dialed In: The Key to Sales Success
Kevin defined being “dialed in” as maintaining maximum effort at all times, being relentless in pursuit of goals, and staying focused on meaningful tasks. This mindset, he believes, is essential for excelling in sales and achieving long-term success.
Kevin Reed Jr.’s journey from the gridiron to the sales floor exemplifies how the skills and mindset developed in sports can translate into a successful sales career. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, practice, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
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