Understand both perspectives In one situation, I worked closely with a client where sales and operations were misaligned, and getting a clear understanding from both sides resolved the tension. Listen to both sides. Identify common goals. Focus on mutual challenges. And don't forget to Sell smart, close with confidence.

To align sales and operations with client priorities, I would implement collaborative incentives, such as KPIs or bonuses tied to both customer satisfaction scores (sales metrics) and operational efficiency benchmarks. Additionally, I would introduce real-time performance dashboards that integrate sales data (e.g., client acquisition rates) with operational metrics (e.g., fulfillment timelines). These strategies promote transparency and foster collaboration, ensuring both teams work cohesively to prioritize and achieve client success.

If I were caught in a conflict between sales and operations, my priority would be to foster open communication and ensure both teams are aligned around the client’s goals. First, I’d bring the teams together to clearly define the client’s priorities and expectations. I’d listen to each side to understand their challenges and perspectives, then identify where their objectives overlap.