Sales Culture
December 2, 2025

Is Person-To-Person Engagement Dead | with Brian Leonard

In this episode of the 1% Edge Podcast, Carlos Nouche speaks with Brian Leonard, Vice President of Sales at Quill, about the significance of high touch engagement in a digital world.
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In this episode of the 1% Edge Podcast, Carlos Nouche speaks with Brian Leonard, Vice President of Sales at Quill, about the significance of high-touch engagement in a digital world. They discuss the importance of building relationships in sales, adapting to face-to-face interactions, and understanding generational differences in customer preferences. Brian shares insights on differentiation in a commodity market, the role of customer service in relationship management, and his personal career journey from medical devices to office supplies. The conversation concludes with reflections on work-life balance and personal growth.

Takeaways

  • High-touch engagement is crucial in today's digital world.
  • Building relationships is key to sales success.
  • Face-to-face interactions can significantly improve customer relationships.
  • Understanding generational differences helps tailor sales strategies.
  • Differentiation in a commodity market relies on exceptional customer service.
  • Customer service can turn a negative experience into a positive relationship.
  • Sales teams must adapt to new market demands and customer preferences.
  • A strong company culture can enhance employee performance and customer satisfaction.
  • Personal growth involves stepping out of your comfort zone.
  • Work-life balance is essential for long-term success.

Titles

  • Reviving High Touch Engagement in Sales
  • The Power of Relationships in a Digital Age

Sound Bites

  • "Is person-to-person engagement really dead?"
  • "Our competitive differentiator is our people."
  • "It's easy to say, but doing it is hard."

Chapters

[00:00] The Importance of High Touch Engagement

[02:51] Building Relationships in Sales

[06:05] Adapting to Face-to-Face Sales

[09:02] Understanding Generational Differences

[11:52] Differentiation in a Commodity Market

[15:09] Customer Service and Relationship Management

[17:56] Brian's Career Journey and Lessons Learned

[20:55] Work-Life Balance and Personal Growth

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