So I’ve had a breakthrough. And by that, I mean a salesperson who wanted to understand how their actions affect mine as the Corporate Controller. He had the courage to ask, not just which way do I prefer, but also “why?”
I was almost a little thrown back by the question, because it’s not something I expect from someone outside my group. I did get a little over zealous and probably got way too technical, but at least we both left the meeting with a little more respect about what each of us has to do.
I realized we were both in a tight position. Not only was I trying to guide him into a better position for the company, but he was trying to guide the client into a better position for a sale. TYPICALLY, we end up selling first, and deal with the accounting second, but I can sense the tide turning.
Rather then running around with my hands in the air, yelling obscenities about the sales staff, I actually started to take notes of what he was more interested in. Now I have a test bed for other sales reps and maybe have new processes for teaching and for creating better relationships with my clients, who are the employees of Mutual Mobile.
The Finance Pig, LLC 