Authentic Discovery: How to Build Deeper Client Relationships with Bob London

“There’s a mythology surrounding the concept of listening to the customer and being customer-centric. It comes from the fact that we think we’re listening, but the reality is customers don’t feel heard and understood,” says Bob London, the creator of the Radically Authentic Discovery Method.  

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Joining Alex Raymond in this episode, Bob challenges account managers to rethink how they approach client relationships. Are you truly listening to your customers? Or are you missing the deeper insights that could transform your understanding of their business needs?  

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Bob introduces his method of “radically authentic discovery,” which focuses on asking bold, truth-sparking questions, practicing silence to fully absorb answers, and connecting the dots between what customers need and what you offer. It’s a framework designed to uncover priorities and challenges that often remain hidden in surface-level conversations.  

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Curiosity, Bob argues, is a superpower for account managers. He shares practical techniques, like using intentional pauses, to create space for clients to share more freely. He also offers advice on shifting your mindset to prioritize meaningful discovery, even with packed schedules.  

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This episode is a wake-up call for account managers to embrace deeper curiosity and active listening. By understanding the voice of the customer, you can build trust, strengthen relationships, and bring valuable insights back to your organization. Are you ready to change the way you listen? Join Bob and Alex’s discussion today!

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Quotes

• “There’s a mythology surrounding the concept of listening to the customer and being customer-centric. It comes from the fact that we think we’re listening, but the reality is customers don’t feel heard and understood.” (05:16 | Bob London)
• “Your customer doesn’t have to be in board meetings to be able to answer, but they have to understand that what you’re trying to do is ask them, start at the most important level for them. What’s driving your priorities as a decision-maker or a user? And so, I try to explain to them that there’s these four principles of radical authentic discovery.” (08:50 | Bob London)
• “Like many things in life, including—I’m sure—people’s relationships, people will remember that you made them feel heard and understood more so than the substance. I’m not saying the substance isn’t important. I’m saying that the main priority is to leave the customer feeling like this was a different conversation.” (38:31 | Bob London)

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Links

Connect with Bob London:

Website: https://www.boblondon.co/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/boblondon/

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Connect with Alex Raymond:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/afraymond/

Website: https://amplifyam.com/

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Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

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