“One thing I realized up front is that I didn’t want to be a toaster salesman. I want to have relationships that are far beyond transactional and I want to build partnerships.
In order to do that, you have to have genuine interest and understanding in where people are coming from - not just professionally but on a personal level too. What motivates them? Is it purpose driven or financial?
And I think those conversations really helped me figure out where I fit.”
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Why Listen:
I loved hearing John's unique approach to entrepreneurship and life. After 20 years of military service, John was drawn into starting his own business. While starting any company requires sales, John's approach to sales is to simply be curious about whoever he is speaking with, and learn about their pain points. This is such great advice for so many different career paths. I also appreciate how John has constructed his life to have a fulfilling family life, outside of work life, and professional life.
About John:
John Schmitt is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel who served 20+ years as an Aviator and Acquisition Corps officer. Upon leaving the Army, John started his own consulting firm with a focus on biotech, advanced manufacturing and marketing projects. Additionally, he serves as a board member for multiple local non-profits. John holds a BS in Biological Sciences from UC-Davis and an MS in Microbiology and Immunology from Vanderbilt University.
Our Sponsor:
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Selected Resources:
John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmittjm/
Schmitt Consulting Group: https://www.schmittconsultinggroup.com/
Rocket City Civil Rights: https://www.rocketcitycivilrights.org/
Inner Defense Initiative: https://www.innerdefense.org/
Listen Local: https://www.listenlocal.org/
Songwriting:
Alan Little: https://www.alanclittle.com/
War Without End: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5jde2APuoI
ToneWoodAmp Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmMYRjk86og
American Songwriter Article: https://americansongwriter.com/the-soldier-and-the-songwriter-how-music-helped-a-war-veteran-overcome-ptsd/
General Wainwright Letter: https://www.schmittconsultinggroup.com/wainwright-letter
Book: Getting to Yes
Transcript & Time Stamps: