Episode Summary
In this episode of Sunny Side Up, host Brian Hopper interviews Derek Hall, Senior Director of Solutions Engineering at ServiceTitan. They delve into the evolving dynamics between account executives and solutions engineers, highlighting the need for a value-focused approach. Derek explains the significance of adopting the Challenger Sale methodology, emphasizing the importance of teaching, tailoring, and taking control during the sales process. He emphasizes that prospects have limited time and attention, making it crucial to provide value and relevance to engage them effectively. The conversation underscores the balance between meeting customer needs and maintaining control over the sales process to convey the value story successfully. Derek also shares valuable advice he would give to his younger self, stressing the importance of embracing intellectual curiosity and continuous learning.
About the Guest
Derek Hall is the Sr. Director of Solutions Engineering at ServiceTitan. Over the last 11 years, he's worked his way from professional football player to entry-level sales development role to Sales Engineer, eventually building out the Sales Engineering org at ServiceTitan. Over the past 7 years, he's built a diverse team of 26 ICs and managers. He's also an advisor with Us In Technology, whose mission is to diversify the Tech C-Suite through mentorship and facilitating the hiring of underrepresented talent.
Connect with Derek Hall
 Key Takeaways
- The relationship between account executives and solutions engineers is evolving towards a focus on value and problem-solving.
-The Challenger Sale methodology is influential in today's sales landscape, emphasizing teaching, tailoring, and taking control.
- Prospects have limited time and attention, so providing value and relevance is crucial during interactions.
- Tailoring the message and demo content to the prospect's needs is essential for engagement and interest.
- Balancing customer needs with maintaining control over the sales process is a challenge but necessary for conveying the value story effectively.
- The Challenger Sale methodology arose from the changing sales landscape post-2008 crisis, with more stakeholders involved in the buying process.
- Successful salespeople in the new buying climate challenge prospects and provide valuable insights and tailored solutions.
- Derek recommends embracing intellectual curiosity and continuously seeking knowledge and personal growth.
- Taking statistics and science classes seriously early on can shorten the learning curve in a tech career.
- Maintaining control over the sales process while being receptive to the prospect's needs ensures a coherent and impactful value story.
- Embracing a growth mindset and continuously seeking knowledge and personal development can accelerate professional success.
- Finding inspiration from diverse sources, such as sports, can provide valuable insights into leadership, mindset, and perseverance.
Quote
“Prospects have limited time and attention. If you're not making them feel like they're getting value out of their time, they're going to disconnect.” – Derek Hall
Recommended Resources
Newsletters

The Daily Coach by Michael Lombardi

Not Boring by Packy McCormick


Books

Infinite Game by Simon Sinek

The Challenger Sale by Matthew Dixon and Brent Adamson


Shout-outs
Simon Sinek – Founder at The Curve and Simon Sinek, Inc. 
Ross Biestman – Chief Revenue Officer at ServiceTitan
Daymond John – CEO at The Shark Group⁠⁠⁠Connect with Derek Hall | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website