How can businesses stay competitive in an AI-driven world? In this episode of Shift and Thrive, Cheryl Jordan-Aguilera joins host Natalie Nathanson to share lessons from her 25-year career in sales and strategy, highlighting the power of collaboration, cultural fit, and consultative selling. She reflects on building scalable growth at GutCheck, navigating M&A challenges, and leading at Official AI, where ethical AI use and internal alignment drive success.

Takeaways:

• It’s not enough to hire people with the right technical skills; you also need individuals who align with your team’s values and mission. Cultural fit drives engagement, collaboration, and long-term success.
• Clear roles, shared playbooks, and consistent communication between sales, marketing, and account management help eliminate friction. When teams understand how their work connects and supports one another, they deliver a better customer experience.
• Whether launching a product or navigating an acquisition, involving marketing and GTM leaders from the start avoids costly misalignment. Early inclusion leads to stronger internal advocacy and smoother execution.
• High-pressure, transactional sales tactics are outdated and often ineffective. Instead, train teams to be consultative and focused on listening, understanding client challenges, and solving problems. This approach builds trust and long-term relationships over short-term wins.
• Platforms like Slack and Notion that utilize aspects of AI help teams collaborate quickly and transparently, replacing outdated email chains and meetings. AI isn’t just a tech tool; it’s becoming essential for efficiency and staying competitive.
• As AI use grows, so do risks around consent, transparency, and digital identity management. Respect for users and their data must be non-negotiable.

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryljordanaguilera/
• Official AI’s Website: https://www.theofficial.ai/

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2D1YbT2QhKxIwbREpU7EMb
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shift-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change/id1740828813
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• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-shift-thrive-ceo-insights-166792501
• Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/shift-and-thrive-ceo-insights-on-driving-change/PC:1001086797

This show is sponsored by Magnetude Consulting, bringing you the thinking-Power of a Growth Consultancy and the Getting-It-Done Power of a full-service B2B Marketing Agency.

Learn more at: https://www.magnetudeconsulting.com