Stacia Skinner

President and Author at Creative Training Solutions

Member since January 2024

Professional Training and Coaching

Education: University of Minnesota
Easton, MD, USA

Biography

Welcome to the world of sales through my lens a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the business realm. As the founder and driving force behind Creative Training Solutions, I have dedicated my career to transforming sales teams and individuals into true masters of the art. In the dynamic field of sales, I understand that success is not just about closing deals; it's about mastering a process from the initial greeting to the final handshake. Creative Training Solutions, is my brainchild and is a sales training and consulting firm committed to elevating sales skills to new heights.

WIth a passion for sales that has been constant throughout my life, the philosophy is clear - sales is an art, and I provide the meticulously crafted process that empowers sales teams and managers to extract the utmost potential from themselves and those around them. As an author of 3 books, (Sell Now, Competitive Selling: The Guidebook to Proactive Calling in a Reactive World, Competitive Selling: The Guidebook to Resilient Virtual Selling) I bring what I have learned and discovered throughout a diverse sales career. I am still a salesperson first and a trainer second. I understand what is happening in this unique world of sales since I am in the trenches of sales everyday.

In a world where every interaction is an opportunity, I continue to inspire and lead, leaving an indelible mark on the sales landscape. My commitment to excellence, coupled with a genuine love of sales and having fun while doing it, defines my remarkable journey in the world of business.

Passion

For me training and speaking is not just a profession; it is a passion that brings an infectious smile on my face. The joy does not come from the intricacies of sales methodologies, but from the moment the audience "gets it." Seeing the realization on the faces of my audience that they can master the artful process is the topping on the cake. When audience members call, email, message you and say "It worked!" right there is the ultimate reward.

Best Story

When I was starting my company, I decided to cold call the VP of Sales at a leading hospitality company. They were already in partnership with a national organization, but I believe our services can bring additional value no matter what they are using. The VP agreed to a meeting.

During our face-to-face discussion, he directly questioned why they should consider an individual like me over a nationally recognized company. Instead of evading the question, I tackled it head-on. I acknowledged the vast resources of their current provider and highlighted my unique strengths, adaptability and personal touch.
In response to his skepticism, I stated, " While it is true I may not have the bandwidth as your current organization however, I am incredibly adaptable. My focus is entirely on your needs and you have my full commitment to delivering exceptional service. My goal is to make you look good, and I'll do what it takes to achieve that for you."
He appreciated my candid response and that marked the beginning of a remarkable 17-year relationship that is still going. I have consistently delivered on my promise, and ensure they receive the attention and service I promised as I do all my customers.
This experience taught me the power of genuine connections, adaptability, and a client-centric approach in building long-lasting business relationships.

Origin Story

My journey to founding Creative Training Solutions (CTS) is a testament to my passion, determination, and the belief in my ability to make a positive impact. It is clear that my 8 years in the training business prior to opening my business provided a solid foundation and a deep understanding of the industry. I decided to venture out on my own to have the flexibility, autonomy, and the freedom to implement my ideas for the benefits of my customers.
In the first years in business it was tough! But I knew if I was resilient I could do it. Cold calling, warm calling, building a client base from scratch are tough tasks, but I kept at it and the hard work paid off! The reward of being able to do what I love to do and having the autonomy to make decisions for my clients have made this all worthwhile.
While my journey is probably not new, the ongoing commitment needed to be an entrepreneur is tremendous. Adapting to change, working both in and out of the business, and constantly striving for improvements are key aspects to my journey. There are multiple a-ha moments throughout my journey and my goal is to keep it going as long as I can!

Topics/Keywords

sales training business to business sales sales cold calling pipeline management sales pipeline management account management sales conversations growing your business growing a company prospecting virtual selling sales coaching management training business communication successful networking business etiquette networking strategies boardroom conversations selling to the csuite
I am willing to travel more than 100 miles
Yes
I generally get paid for speaking but make exceptions

Best Story

When I was starting my company, I decided to cold call the VP of Sales at a leading hospitality company. They were already in partnership with a national organization, but I believe our services can bring additional value no matter what they are using. The VP agreed to a meeting.

During our face-to-face discussion, he directly questioned why they should consider an individual like me over a nationally recognized company. Instead of evading the question, I tackled it head-on. I acknowledged the vast resources of their current provider and highlighted my unique strengths, adaptability and personal touch.
In response to his skepticism, I stated, " While it is true I may not have the bandwidth as your current organization however, I am incredibly adaptable. My focus is entirely on your needs and you have my full commitment to delivering exceptional service. My goal is to make you look good, and I'll do what it takes to achieve that for you."
He appreciated my candid response and that marked the beginning of a remarkable 17-year relationship that is still going. I have consistently delivered on my promise, and ensure they receive the attention and service I promised as I do all my customers.
This experience taught me the power of genuine connections, adaptability, and a client-centric approach in building long-lasting business relationships.

Origin Story

My journey to founding Creative Training Solutions (CTS) is a testament to my passion, determination, and the belief in my ability to make a positive impact. It is clear that my 8 years in the training business prior to opening my business provided a solid foundation and a deep understanding of the industry. I decided to venture out on my own to have the flexibility, autonomy, and the freedom to implement my ideas for the benefits of my customers.
In the first years in business it was tough! But I knew if I was resilient I could do it. Cold calling, warm calling, building a client base from scratch are tough tasks, but I kept at it and the hard work paid off! The reward of being able to do what I love to do and having the autonomy to make decisions for my clients have made this all worthwhile.
While my journey is probably not new, the ongoing commitment needed to be an entrepreneur is tremendous. Adapting to change, working both in and out of the business, and constantly striving for improvements are key aspects to my journey. There are multiple a-ha moments throughout my journey and my goal is to keep it going as long as I can!

I am willing to travel more than 100 miles
Yes
I generally get paid for speaking but make exceptions

Topics/Keywords

sales training business to business sales sales cold calling pipeline management sales pipeline management account management sales conversations growing your business growing a company prospecting virtual selling sales coaching management training business communication successful networking business etiquette networking strategies boardroom conversations selling to the csuite