In this season finale of The Sales and RevOps Effect, Charlene Thompson shares the hard truths scaling companies need to hear.
From metric overload to unrealistic expectations of RevOps magic, Charlene dives into:
Why not everyone should see every metric
The difference between data-driven and data-drowning
How company maturity impacts process, people, and performance
What RevOps can and can’t fix (spoiler: it's not wizardry)
Why tech alone won’t save your sales pipeline
If you're a founder, sales leader, or RevOps pro trying to scale sustainably without burning out your team or your budget, this episode is your reset button.
📌 Mentioned in this episode:
RevOps Blueprint for scaling teams https://charlenethompson.com/revopsblueprint
Fractional RevOps support (12-week engagements) https://charlenethompson.com/fractionalhome
Metrics deep-dive services https://charlenethompson.com/analyticsservices
6-Week Sell System Tune-Up (for microbusinesses) https://soet.salesopseffect.com/salessystem
🔗 Find out more or get in touch via:
💬 Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-thompson-salesops/
📸 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salesopseffect/
Not all CRMs are created equal, and some are just plain painful.
In Part 2 of my conversation with CRM expert Chris Smith (author of CRM Shouldn’t Suck), we get into the practical stuff: 13 CRM platforms reviewed. Who are they really for? What’s actually worth the money? And which ones will give your sales team a headache?
🧠 What we cover:
Salesforce vs Microsoft Dynamics — which makes more sense for your business?
The truth about HubSpot, Zoho, Pipedrive, and other popular names
Why custom CRMs and ERP-integrated CRMs can backfire
Open-source CRM warnings: what no one tells you
What to look for in a platform if you're a small business or scaling startup
This is the episode where things get spicy — honest, unfiltered, and actually helpful if you’re trying to choose a CRM that won’t hold your business back.
💡 Part 1 covers how AI is transforming the entire CRM landscape. Definitely watch that too if you haven’t yet!
Chris Smith on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophersmith8/
Grab your copy of CRM Shouldn't Suck here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/crm-shouldnt-suck-christopher-smith/1146899077
Charlene Thompson on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-thompson-salesops/
#CRMReview #Salesforce #HubSpot #MicrosoftDynamics #Zoho #GoHighLevel #SmallBusinessTools #RevOps #SalesEnablement #CRMSucks #CharleneThompson #ChrisSmith #TechTools #BusinessGrowth
AI is reshaping the world of CRM — but most businesses are still stuck treating it like a contact database. In this episode, I’m joined by CRM expert Chris Smith (author of CRM Shouldn’t Suck and host of the Sales Lead Dog podcast) to break down how AI is transforming CRM systems, sales strategy, and customer retention.
🎯 What we cover:
How AI is redefining CRM (and what’s coming next)
Microsoft vs Salesforce: who’s winning the AI arms race?
Why CRMs fail — and how to make yours actually work
The importance of clean data, defined processes, and buyer journeys
How AI tools can help spot upsell opportunities and client churn risks
👀 If you’re a founder, sales leader or RevOps pro trying to future-proof your CRM strategy — this is a must-watch.
📌 Don’t forget — Part 2 dives into practical reviews of 13 CRM platforms (including Salesforce, HubSpot, Go High Level, Monday, Zoho, and more).
Keep in touch with us here:
Chris Smith on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophersmith8/
Grab your copy of CRM Shouldn't Suck here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/crm-shouldnt-suck-christopher-smith/1146899077
Charlene Thompson on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-thompson-salesops/
#CRM #AIinBusiness #SalesLeadership #RevOps #MicrosoftDynamics #Salesforce #CustomerRetention #SalesEnablement #CRMSucks #CharleneThompson #ChrisSmith #SmallBusinessTips #TechStrategy
In this honest and energising conversation, I’m joined by visibility expert Mildred Talabi to unpack the real behind-the-scenes of building a personal brand—without selling your soul to the algorithm.
We talk about:
Why “being visible” doesn’t mean oversharing
How to stay consistent without burning out
The difference between human-centred marketing and bro-style manipulation
What to do when you're sick of seeing cookie-cutter content
Why chasing virality can leave you empty—and what to aim for instead
Mildred brings warmth, wisdom, and a grounded perspective to a topic that's often flooded with hype. Whether you’re an introvert, a neurodivergent professional, or just tired of the noise—this one’s for you.
🎧 Listen in and remember: your voice, your rhythm, your terms. Visibility can feel good and do good.
#Mildredtalabi #charlenethompson #visibility #linkedin #linkedin2025
In today’s B2B sales landscape, expectations are higher, budgets are tighter, and the bar for buyer experience keeps rising. So what does it really take to succeed in 2025?
In this episode, Charlene Thompson is joined by Michael Akinle, a senior sales leader at the UK’s largest private equity–backed software company, for a grounded and insightful conversation about the changing shape of sales, from hiring and headcount to AI and executive engagement.
Together, they explore:
How the shift from “growth at all costs” to sustainable, efficient growth is reshaping teams
The real skills modern AEs need to thrive (hint: it’s more than quota-chasing)
Why sales cycles are lengthening — and how that changes how we define success
The rising importance of business acumen, technical fluency, and executive presence
Where AI fits into prospecting, and what it can’t replace
What a standout customer experience really looks like from first touch to close
Whether you're leading a team, carrying a quota, or shaping go-to-market strategy, this conversation offers a clear, honest look at what sales success demands now — and how to build for the future without burning people out.
Want to get the inside scoop on your sales metrics?
Check out my Analytics Services today
https://charlenethompson.com/analyticsservices
You can follow Charlene Thompson on LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-thompson-salesops/
Follow Michael Akinle on Linked -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ranmi-akinl%C3%A9-0ab96780/
Here's a sneak peak of an episode being released on 20th May 1pm UK time.
Get ready for Michael Akinle on The Sales & Rev Ops Effect!
In this episode, Charlene Thompson (Host), and Leo Crocker, founder of LSC Creative, shares his expertise on building authentic relationships through LinkedIn outreach. Leo discusses the power of personalized, human-driven messaging over automation, and how businesses can cut through the noise to connect with their ideal clients.Learn how to approach LinkedIn as a platform for relationship-building rather than just lead generation. Leo emphasizes the importance of authenticity in outreach, engaging with content meaningfully, and optimizing your profile to increase visibility. He also dives into the value of consistent posting and strategic use of AI tools without losing the human touch.Leo also shares how small businesses can leverage LinkedIn to their advantage, even if they're B2C, and how to get noticed by decision-makers. Plus, he offers valuable insights into LinkedIn's evolving algorithm and how businesses can stay ahead in 2025.You can get in contact with Leo Crocker here:LinkedIn - Leo Crocker https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-crocker/You can get in contact with Charlene Thompson here:LinkedIn - Charlene Thompson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-thompson-salesops/As a solopreneur or small business owner, are you ready to optimize your sales operations and reduce the risks that come with disorganized processes? Explore Charlene's 6-Week Sales System Set-Up service to gain clarity, structure, and systems that will improve your lead generation and streamline your sales process. Check out the details and apply for a consultation here: 6-Week Sales System Set-Up https://soet.salesopseffect.com/salessystem#newbusiness #linkedin #leadgen #getleads #dmleads #outreach
Think your CRM is just a necessary evil? Think again. In this episode, Christopher Smith joins Charlene Thompson to reveal how businesses are leaking cash and wasting valuable time all because of neglected CRM systems.
We break down how to make your CRM a proper business strategy, why spreadsheets are silent killers, and how leaders can stop the madness before it's too late.
If you’re a business leader who wants less stress and more efficiency – this one’s for you.
#CRMSuccess #SalesStrategy #OperationalExcellence #TimeIsMoney #LeadershipMatters
Ever felt like you’re running flat out but still not getting the important stuff done? Same. In this solo episode of The Sales Ops Effect, I, Charlene Thompson, get real about how I recently found myself stuck in a cycle of frustration, despite knowing better.
As someone with ADHD, I’ve had to build my own systems to make time work for me (because it certainly didn’t on its own). I share the simple but powerful review I finally forced myself to do — and how it helped me reclaim my diary, clear my head, and stop spinning my wheels.
Here's what I cover:
I also chat about why flexible structures save us from chaos, how this all links to how I run Sales Ops projects, and why I’m considering running a mini workshop on this.
🎯 Want in on a live session where I walk you through this? Pop me an email at hello@salesopseffect.com or DM me on Instagram at @salesopseffect – if enough people are keen, I’ll run it on April 1st for £20.
👀 Got a question or a win to share after listening? Drop me a message – I'd love to hear how you manage (or wrestle) with your calendar.
Learn how to protect your business from fraud with practical tips and prevention strategies.
In this episode with Rosie Murphy and Charlene dive deep into the world of business fraud and how even small businesses can fall victim to fraudsters. Rosie, an expert in accountancy, shares her experiences and insights on identifying, preventing, and mitigating fraud risks in businesses of all sizes.
Key takeaways from this episode include:
+ Understanding Fraud Risks: From online dating scams to invoice fraud, Rosie explains the various ways fraud can affect businesses.
+ Practical Prevention Strategies: Rosie shares simple steps like using strong passwords, regularly updating systems, and performing risk assessments to safeguard your business.
+ Employee Fraud Awareness: Rosie emphasizes the importance of segregating duties and having checks in place to prevent internal fraud.
+ Building Resilience into Processes: Learn how to implement processes that reduce fraud risks and protect your business from significant losses.
---- To report business fraud in the UK, you should contact Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040; it's the national reporting center for fraud and cybercrime in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. -----
Want to protect your sales system and technology?
If you're a solopreneur struggling with CRM systems or automation, Charlene's 6-week Sales System Set-Up is designed to help you optimize your sales processes and make sure everything is aligned correctly. This service is available by application only.
Learn More and Apply here https://soet.salesopseffect.com/salessystem
You can get in contact with Rosie Murphy here: Rosie Murphy on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rdmaccountancyservices/
You can get in contact with Charlene Thompson here: Charlene Thompson on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-thompson-salesops/
#FraudPrevention, #BusinessSecurity, #RiskManagement, #SolopreneurTips
Learn how to overcome the sales “ick” and build sales confidence with Elle Turner and Charlene Thompson.
In this second part of a two-part series, Charlene and Elle dive into how entrepreneurs can reframe their mindset around sales and stop feeling like they’re being “salesy.” They explore how the fear of rejection and feelings of being pushy can hold business owners back, but with the right mindset, sales can become a natural and fulfilling part of business growth.
Key takeaways include:
+ Understanding the Sales ick: What it is, how it shows up, and how it affects business owners.
+ Reframing Your Sales Approach: Moving from fear of rejection to viewing sales as an exchange of value.
+ Building Confidence: How to feel good about selling by focusing on helping clients achieve their goals.
+ Empowering Yourself: Shifting your mindset to empower both yourself and your clients during the sales process.
Continue the conversation with us here:
Connect with Elle Turner:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elleturner_writer/
Website: https://www.elleturner.me/
Connect with Charlene Thompson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-thompson-salesops/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salesopseffect/
Are you sick and tired of learning yet another new piece of tech to help your business? Let's speed that up, get someone who knows how all of those things work together to sort it out and give you the user notes instead. Book a free call with Charlene here to learn more: https://link.feacreate.com/widget/bookings/bitesize
#fearofselling #rejection #rsd #salesick #salesops #revops #solopreneur #businessowner #entrepreneur #fearoffailure #womeninbusiness
Learn how to overcome the "sales ick" and transform your mindset to boost your confidence in sales.
In this episode, Charlene sits down with Elle Turner to explore the concept of the “sales ick”—the fear and discomfort that often comes with selling. Elle and Charlene share their personal experiences and discuss how sales is often about overcoming internal barriers like fear of rejection and self-doubt, rather than the act of selling itself.
Key topics include:
Join Charlene and Elle for the next episode, where they’ll dive deeper into how to reframe and release the sales ick, empowering you to take the action your business needs to thrive.
Want to make sure your emotions aren't getting in the way of your sales process?
Get in touch with Charlene Thompson here https://link.feacreate.com/widget/bookings/bitesize
Want to work through the mindset shifts and improve your sales confidence?Get in touch with Elle Turner here https://www.instagram.com/elleturner_writer/
#SalesMindset, #SalesConfidence, #EntrepreneurMindset, #SalesFear, #OvercomingSalesIck, #BusinessGrowth, #Entrepreneurship, #SalesStrategies #salesick #rsd #rejection
Learn how to optimize revenue and fix sales teams with actionable strategies to drive growth and improve performance.
Charlene and Doug C. Brown, a revenue optimization expert, dive into practical ways to overcome sales team challenges and unlock growth potential. Doug shares his insights on fixing broken sales teams, improving performance, and optimizing revenue generation.
Key topics include:
Connect with Doug C. Brown here: Doug C. Brown on LinkedIn
Join Charlene for her free live event on February 27th at 4 PM (UK Time)—
If you're struggling to select the right CRM or want to optimize your sales processes, this CRM for Beginners session is for you! Charlene will guide you through choosing the right CRM and avoiding common pitfalls.
Click here to book your spot!
#SalesOptimization, #RevenueGrowth, #SalesLeadership, #SalesTeamBuilding, #BusinessGrowth, #SalesTraining, #SalesStrategy, #SalesSuccess# salesops #revops #salesoptimisation
In this episode ofThe Sales Ops Effect, Charlene talks about the importance of owning your mistakes and learning from them in business. She shares a personal story about a mistake made with a CRM system and how taking accountability for errors can actually build trust with your team and clients.
Charlene emphasizes that while everyone makes mistakes, the key to growth is owning up to them and making amends. She discusses how apologizing sincerely and taking responsibility can go a long way in building respect, even with colleagues who may not be aligned with your processes.
The episode also touches on some practical steps for business owners, including:
Want to learn how to choose the right CRM for your business?
Join Charlene for afree live online event onFebruary 27th at 4 PM where she’ll walk you through the best practices for selecting and implementing a CRM system.Click here to book your spot!
In this episode of The Sales Ops Effect, Charlene discusses the risks of having an imbalanced sales pipeline. She explores the importance of diversifying your deal types—new business, upsells, and retained clients—to avoid overleveraging your business on one source of revenue. Charlene shares insights on:
Charlene emphasizes the need for a solid foundation in sales operations to ensure that businesses aren’t caught off guard when things go wrong. She also talks about the value of focusing on existing customers and upselling them, which can often be more profitable than chasing new leads all the time.
Want to improve your sales pipeline?
Charlene is offering a free 30-minute consultation call to help you analyze your pipeline and identify where you can make improvements. Book your call here.
Also, stay tuned for a live event coming at the end of February! It will be an online session focused on using your CRM properly. More details to follow soon!
In this episode of The Sales Ops Effect, Charlene dives into what business leaders should focus on after a successful Q4. While it’s tempting to celebrate and splurge, Charlene urges listeners to take a step back and reflect on the processes that helped them succeed.
Key takeaways from this episode include:
Charlene also shares her thoughts on the common pitfall of rushing into new hires or technologies after a good quarter, and how to avoid the temptation to overspend.
Need help prioritizing or analyzing your sales operations?
Charlene offers fractional support and analysis to help you take your business to the next level. Book a free 30-minute consultation now: Book Your Call.
Tune in and learn how to navigate success strategically for continued growth.
#SalesSuccess, #BusinessGrowth, #SalesStrategy, #SalesOps, #ProcessImprovement, #Leadership
In this episode of The Sales Ops Effect, Charlene dives into how to handle disappointing Q4 results and how business leaders can approach the situation with a clear head. She explores the importance of assessing your performance objectively and delves into the key areas of People, Process, and Technology to figure out what went wrong and what to do next. Charlene offers practical steps for leaders to take when facing difficult decisions, like how to:
In this solo episode of The Sales Ops Effect, Charlene dives deep into the importance of setting up clear processes before jumping into technology solutions. She explores how many businesses rush to adopt new tools without first understanding their internal workflows, leading to inefficiencies and frustration. Charlene discusses:
If you’re ready to streamline your sales processes, improve efficiency, and set your business up for sustainable growth, Charlene is offering a 30-minute Sales Tune-Up Session. During this session, you'll gain actionable insights on where your sales process can be optimized and how to build a strong foundation for growth.
Book your 30-minute Sales Tune-Up Session now:
Book Your Tune-Up https://link.feacreate.com/widget/bookings/bitesize
How Nutrition Impacts Your Business: Boosting Brain Health for Better Decision-Making with John Bryant
In this episode of The Sales Ops Effect, Charlene is joined by John Bryant, a client-first online exercise and nutrition coach, to explore the crucial link between nutrition and brain health for business owners.
They dive into how what you eat affects your mental clarity, decision-making, and energy levels—key factors for entrepreneurs who need to stay sharp and productive.
John discusses:
John also provides advice on how to implement small, sustainable changes that can boost your focus and productivity, helping you perform at your best, both personally and professionally.
Want to improve your mental clarity and energy?
Get John’s free guide on the 5 reasons why you're not losing weight and start optimizing your health today!
If you're a business owner looking to optimize your sales processes, don't miss Charlene's Sales Tune-Up Session. Book your 30-min session today
https://link.feacreate.com/widget/bookings/bitesize
Episode: Planning with Kit Caelsto (S4, Ep30)
In this insightful episode, Charlene and Kit dive deep into the habits, mindset, and challenges faced by successful authors and coaches.
They discuss how to manage tasks effectively, avoid burnout, and maintain focus in a busy world. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of the book industry, offering advice on staying aligned with your purpose while overcoming perfectionism to achieve your goals.
Special guest, Kit Caelsto of "Embrace Your Unique Soul," shares her expertise on writing in tune with your mind, body, and spirit. They also touch on the different writing paces, publishing models, and the rewards (and challenges) of balancing a creative passion with a day job. Don't miss their practical recommendations for apps and technology to help improve your writing skills.
Find Kit Caelsto at https://authoryogi.eponaauthorsolutions.com and start writing in harmony with your true self!
Book Your 30-min Consultation Call, Achieve sales growth with clarity, not guesswork. -
https://soet.salesopseffect.com/30minappt
Gain invaluable perspectives and strategies to elevate your sales game and drive sustainable growth in your business.
Let's connect on LinkedIn! Follow my profile to stay updated with insights, tips, and discussions on sales operations and business growth. Looking forward to networking with you all! @Charlene Thompson MAPM
#SalesOpsEffect #BusinessGrowth #SalesStrategy #RevenueForecasting #SmallBusiness #Podcast
