Mastering the Buyer’s Journey with Jacob Hicks, Episode #367

David Podcast with Jacob Hicks
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

In this episode of the Power Producers Podcast, David Carothers welcomes Jacob Hicks, a sales coach with an eclectic background in various industries, including retail, real estate, and optical sales. Jacob shares his insights on the evolution of sales and the importance of systems, follow-up, and understanding of your ideal client profile.

David and Jacob explore Jacob’s journey from selling suits to coaching salespeople, touching on the principles that drive success in sales across industries. The conversation delves into effective sales strategies, the importance of follow-up, and how mindset plays a crucial role in achieving sales success.

Key Highlights:

Jacob’s Sales Journey: From Suits to Coaching

Jacob discusses his sales experience, starting from selling suits in retail to his work in real estate and the optical industry. He shares the unique lessons he’s learned along the way, including his entrepreneurial beginnings selling Osage Oranges and potholders door-to-door.

The Power of Follow-Up

Both David and Jacob agree that follow-up is one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects of sales. Jacob emphasizes the importance of having a solid system in place for follow-up, whether automated or personalized, to stay in front of prospects and clients consistently.

Avoiding the Trap of “Just Enough”

Jacob recalls a pivotal moment in his career when a mentor told him that the insurance industry was full of “C players.” This insight pushed him to elevate his own standards and always compete against top-tier professionals. He encourages listeners to focus on creating a system for success and sticking to it.

Understanding Your Ideal Client

Jacob and David dive into the concept of an ideal client profile. Jacob talks about how focusing on the right clients can prevent wasted time and energy on deals that are unlikely to succeed. He stresses that saying “no” to distractions and focusing on high-quality prospects is a game-changer.

Sales Mindset and Belief

The duo explores the role of self-belief in sales. Jacob shares how overcoming limiting beliefs can significantly increase one’s potential in sales, with a special focus on setting higher goals and pushing past comfort zones to achieve greater success.

Investing in Yourself: The Key to Growth

Jacob discusses how investing in personal growth, whether through coaching, training, or networking, has played a significant role in his success. He encourages listeners to prioritize their own development to reap higher returns and better performance.

The Transition from Inside Sales to Outside Sales

Jacob reflects on his transition from inside sales (selling suits) to outside sales (in the optical industry), highlighting the key differences and skills that apply across both settings, including the importance of showing up, asking the right questions, and building rapport.

Connect with:

Visit Websites:

The Power Producers Podcast where we are refining and redefining the sales game.

Kyle Houck

Trust

From Cold Calls to Carpool Closers: How Insurance Producers Can Build Trust with Educational Content

In the modern commercial insurance landscape, trust is no longer built solely through in-person meetings, networking events, or polished brochures. It’s earned digitally—often before a prospect ever takes your call. As sales dynamics shift and competition tightens, the producers who will thrive are those who understand one thing: educational content is the new handshake.

Read More »
Referral

How to Build Referral Networks That Drive Revenue and Recruit Elite Producers in Commercial Insurance

Most commercial insurance producers think of referral networks as an afterthought—something that might generate a lead or two if they attend enough events, shake enough hands, or stay active in their BNI chapter. But the producers who consistently dominate the middle market think differently. They treat referral networks like revenue engines, built with the same discipline as a sales pipeline, and they use those relationships not only to generate appointments but to recruit the next generation of elite producers.

Read More »
Business

How Curious Leadership and Operational Audits Drive Middle Market Business Growth

In a rapidly changing business landscape, the difference between thriving and merely surviving often boils down to one core attribute: curiosity. But curiosity alone isn’t enough. When paired with operational audits, strong leadership, and a growth mindset, it becomes a powerful tool for transformation—especially in the middle market. In this post, we explore how curious leadership and deep operational insights can revolutionize how insurance producers approach sales, consult with clients, and build long-term partnerships rooted in value.

Read More »

Why Most Producers Don’t Fail From Lack of Sales Skill

Let’s set the record straight: most commercial insurance producers don’t fail because they can’t sell. They fail because they don’t plan. They lack process. They don’t follow up consistently—or when they do, it’s weak and generic.

In today’s competitive environment, trust is not built through hard closes. It’s built through consistency. Being present when the incumbent fails. Being available when the buyer is finally ready. Being prepared with insight when everyone else is just pushing a quote.

Read More »

Test Message

Killing Commercial Login