In this episode of "The Revenue Maze," host Valerie Cobb sits down with the accomplished entrepreneur and renowned relationship builder, Clay Hicks. With a remarkable history in the field of professional relationships, Clay Hicks has successfully built a diverse portfolio of five thriving companies. As the CEO/Founder of H7 Network, Clay has revolutionized the way business professionals connect, serve with purpose, and ask for support from their peers on a global scale. With an unwavering mission to empower underserved entrepreneurs and sales professionals.

In their conversation, Clay Hicks shares his current projects and exciting developments in the pipeline. As a visionary leader, Clay is dedicated to expanding the reach of H7 Network into new international markets, providing comprehensive training and development programs, and implementing cutting-edge processes to enhance retention, business growth, and overall relationship development. With members in 47 states and several countries worldwide, H7 Network continues to transform the networking landscape, enabling professionals to cultivate their own audience and advocates for their businesses. Clay's passion for empowering others shines through as he discusses his upcoming endeavours and the impact they will have on the business community.

This engaging conversation highlights the importance of active listening, valuing both personal and others' time, and building trust to achieve sales success. Join Valerie Cobb and her esteemed guest, Clay Hicks, as they navigate the complexities of the revenue maze, offering invaluable insights and actionable strategies for entrepreneurs and sales professionals alike. Tune in and discover the keys to unlocking your full potential in the world of business relationships

Key Takeaways

~ Specificity in asking for help: Clay Hicks emphasizes the importance of being specific when asking for assistance in the industry. This makes it easier for others to provide support and build trust.

~ The power of "Connect, Serve, and Ask": "Connect, Serve, and Ask" is not only applicable in networking and professional relationships but can also be applied in friendships and office dynamics. Genuine service and active listening are the keys to building strong connections.

~ The significance of valuing time and trust: Building rapport and earning trust are crucial in sales and business relationships. Active listening, paying attention, and displaying respect for the other person's time are important components of effective communication.

~ Self-care and confidence: Taking care of oneself is essential for engaging in active listening and effective communication. Confidence and self-love are necessary for valuing others, building trust, and establishing meaningful connections.

~ The importance of being intentional: In the era of digital communication, Clay Hicks stresses the significance of being intentional in human connections. Asking general questions like "Can I help you?" may not yield fruitful responses, but offering specific assistance based on prior conversation or observation is more likely to be accepted.

~ Relationship-building as a strategic process: Building rapport and relationships in sales training should align with understanding the needs and challenges of the customer. Clay Hicks encourages professionals to invest time and value in others, just as they would with friends or children, to establish deep and meaningful connections.

Quote of the show –

The Power of Asking: "So you want to be specific with your asks around industry companies you want to meet, you want to make it easy on somebody else to help you. That's the deal. Make it easier on somebody else to open that door for you."

Time Stamps –

[00:00:00] Navigating the revenue maze with Valerie Cobb.

[00:06:25] Open-mindedness and flexibility lead to success.

[00:08:03] Big change, seeking advice for impossible problem.

[00:11:30] Blurring lines: humans matter in business.

[00:14:24] How you do one thing, affects all.

[00:19:39] Building trust is essential in connecting with others.

[00:22:57] Specific question frames give better results.

[00:24:55] Building rapport and relationships in sales.

[00:30:43] Specify asks, make it easy to help, trust, works across the board.

[00:31:36] "True connection lost, reclaiming intentional relationships."

[00:36:21] Building global network by word of mouth.

[00:38:41] Work grind, lack of connection after COVID.

[00:45:32] Open to one-on-one interaction with audience

Contact Clay at - https://www.linkedin.com/in/claytonrhicks/

Clay Hick’s Social Media

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/claytonrhicks/

H7 Network - https://www.h7network.com/

Revenue Northstar-https://revenuenorthstar.com/

Revenue Northstar Podcast-https://revenuenorthstar.com/podcasts/

The Revenue Maze Podcast-https://www.revenuemaze.com/