The State of Presales in 2025 with Matthew James

In today's episode, Jack Cochran (General Manager, PreSales Collective) and new co-host Matthew James discuss the evolution of PreSales Collective and key industry trends for 2025. They announce the expansion of local PSC chapters, tease upcoming leadership conferences, and explore controversial topics like AI in pre-sales and team structure debates. The episode offers insights into career development opportunities beyond traditional paths and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of pre-sales.

To join the show live, follow the PreSales Collective's LinkedIn page or join the PSC Slack community for updates. The show is bi-weekly on Tuesdays, 8AM PT/11AM ET/4PM GMT.

Follow the Hosts

• Connect with Jack Cochran: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackcochran/
• Connect with Matthew James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewyoungjames/

Links and Resources Mentioned

• Follow the PreSales Collective's LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/presalescollective
• Join PreSales Collective Slack: https://www.presalescollective.com/slack
• PreSales Collective newsletter: https://www.presalescollective.com/newsletter
• Simon Sinek's "A Bit of Optimism" podcast episode with Trevor Noah: https://simonsinek.com/podcast/episodes/trevor-noah-makes-my-brain-hurt/
• Jack's YouTube video on microphone quality: https://youtu.be/B6nl64Sv7pw?si=wtOud1fS27ryqavI

Timestamps

00:00 - Welcome

01:26 - PSC Unlimited

02:34 - Show Kickoff

05:20 - Regional Community Leader Launch

12:24 - In-Person Leadership Conference Teaser

16:12 - Changes to PreSales LIVE & PreSales Podcast

18:02 - What Have You Been Listening To?

22:03 - Topics for 2025

28:16 - How to Get Involved in the PSC

Key Topics Covered

1. PreSales Collective Updates

• Launch of PreSales Live show
• New regional community leader program
• Upcoming leadership conferences (announcement pending)
• Slack community surpasses 16,000 members

2. Industry Trends for 2025

• Presales influence within organizations
• Career paths and organizational changes
• Moving beyond demo-centric roles
• AI and automation in presales
• Team structure debates (pre/postsales integration)

3. Getting Involved

• Regional Community Leader opportunities
• Content creation and speaking opportunities
• Local chapter participation
• Blog writing and podcast guest appearances