Welcome back to the ProfitSchool by MeasureU podcast Business Unfiltered with Mercer and Jeff Sauer. Today's topic is Automation First: Pros and Cons

• Jeff and Mercer emphasize that successful automation requires a clearly defined, repeatable process before any building begins.

• Initially, Jeff viewed automation negatively, associating it with spam and a lack of human involvement, but now recognizes its necessity and value when a human element is retained.

• The hosts highlight the "never too late to automate, but sometimes it's too soon" principle, stressing the importance of manually proving a process before automating it.

• Mercer and Jeff outline a nine-part automation framework, beginning with strategic planning to define the desired result, the business process, and feasibility before any technical implementation.

• The discussion stresses that the "build" phase, which many mistakenly start with, is the fifth step in their framework, occurring after thorough planning and technical blueprinting.

• A key benefit of strategic automation is the creation of reusable "Lego bricks" or interchangeable parts, allowing for easier maintenance and scaling of complex automation workflows.

Welcome back to the ProfitSchool by MeasureU podcast Business Unfiltered with Mercer and Jeff Sauer. Today's topic is Building a Culture of Accountability.

• The discussion centers on establishing a "culture of GUSTO" within a business.

• Jeff and Mercer define "GUSTO" as a framework for team members to operate effectively, emphasizing self-driven action and focus.

• The framework aims to be more impactful than traditional mission or vision statements, which often become "placards on the wall".

• "GUSTO" is an acronym: Good enough to get going (G), Use the system to improve the system (U), Speed to result (S), Trust but verify (T), and Out with the trash (O).

• The hosts explain how these principles foster a proactive environment, encouraging action over perfectionism and continuous improvement.

• The episode concludes by illustrating how an AI-first approach can integrate seamlessly with these "GUSTO" principles, enhancing efficiency and removing bottlenecks.

Welcome back to the ProfitSchool by MeasureU podcast Business Unfiltered with Mercer and Jeff Sauer. Today's topic is AI Powered Sales Techniques and Tactics

• Jeff and Mercer explore how AI tools can refine and improve service-based businesses' sales processes.

• The hosts discuss using AI to qualify leads, create compelling sales copy, and analyze customer interactions.

• They emphasize that AI can help identify ideal clients and determine the best strategies for attracting them.

• The conversation highlights AI's ability to streamline tasks, automate outreach, and personalize communication with potential clients.

• Mercer and Jeff stress combining AI insights with human skills to build strong client relationships.

• The episode concludes by noting AI's potential to empower even those who don't consider themselves natural salespeople.