As a former Vici Partner, and fanboy, I have a unique perspective on Vici’s secret weapon… The Vici Trainers. When I was tapped to lead digital sales for a cluster of local radio stations, I’ll admit, I was in WAY over my head and it seemed so overwhelming. Sure, I had years of marketing experience, a solid understanding of banner ads and social media advertising and I’d been designing digital media for well over a decade. But then came conversations about Planners, Client Capabilities Presentations, Mobile Conquesting, Social Mirrors, Geo-Fencing, Keywords, and abbreviations that seemed to cover the entire alphabet: CTV, RFP, IO, DPP, DMP… My thought, “OMG I might need CPR.”
Thankfully I had two people in my corner from day one that helped me off the ledge by day two: Jennaya Sullivan and Greg Swiszcz. At that time Jennaya wasn’t a trainer but was my digital boss and Greg was my markets designated Vici Trainer. After a couple years and some inner market changes, I had the privilege of crying on the shoulders of trainer Katie Pray. All three of these folks are Vici Trainers/Account Directors today, they all have strong individual talents, and they all share one BIG characteristic… They are amazing listeners! Add to the mix Lead Trainer Allison Gibson and the newest addition to the trainer force Tracey Geary, and you round out the “Dream Team.” This is a group that cares deeply, listens carefully, and can help you win consistently! On that note, that’s what this post is really about, how to utilize your Vici Trainer.
Left to right: Dan Charon (Not a Trainer), Katie Pray, Jennaya Sullivan, Tracey Geary, Allison Gibson & Greg Swiszcz.
You’ve got questions, they have answers!
As the Digital Point Person in my market, I was responsible for knowing answers to commonly asked questions regarding our digital capabilities. On occasion, a client would come up with a real stumper. My go-to response? “I’m not sure on that, but I will find the answer and get back to you right away.” I knew I could say, with all confidence, I’d be able to get a definite answer in a timely fashion because my trainer was on speed dial! It really is that easy, call your trainer!
You’ve got problems, they have solutions!
No matter how well you know the product, client, or vertical… Ask your trainer for input, strategies, and solve problems with them. All of the Vici Trainers are seasoned marketing professionals with literal decades of experience. Including your trainer, especially in high-budget or complicated strategies, will ABSOLUTELY pay-off from start to finish. From explaining the initial media planner to reviewing a client’s month report- Involving your trainer is a golden ticket to success.
In Market Training and Deep Dives
“Wednesday Webinars” are an essential learning and refreshing tool we always recommend for new reps and seasoned reps alike. But what if your team needs a real boost? Umm… Call your trainer! You saw the coming right? Getting your trainer to visit your market for a day or two is like bringing in Joey Chestnut to your neighborhood hotdog eating contest. You’re going to win! Here’s a few of the big benefits to bring your trainer in-market:
· Familiarity with your team - It encourages and fosters the relationship with your trainer.
· Team building – Your trainer can play educational games, role-play, and discuss areas of opportunity with your whole team.
· Client meetings – Clients love meeting your trainers and it makes them feel special. “You flew in from where to visit with me?” Your trainers will close those deals!
· New product and specific product deep dives – We’ve rolled out a ton of new products and features inside products. Your trainer can create specific training catered to your team’s needs.
Client Seminars and Workshops
If you’ve not had your trainer in market for a seminar or workshop, you’re missing out big time! We had our trainer come in market and present to our local Chamber of Commerce and the members were all invited. The turnout was big, and the campaigns that followed we’re a true boost to revenue.
Vici offers some outstanding products, overly competitive pricing, and solid advantages across the board. But the real “Vici Value” is the people and the Dream Team known as the Vici Trainers lead the way. Call your trainer! If you’ve not joined the Vici family as a partner, hopefully you’ve can see what you’re missing, and we welcome you to hop on board!
