Podcast
December 20, 2024
Episode 20: RevOps vs. GTM Ops
Learn the difference between revenue operations and go-to-market operations and why titles, reporting structures, and a centralized leader are critical.
Welcome to the latest episode of the RevOps Co-op podcast! Join our host, Camela Thompson, Head of Marketing and RevOps SME at the RevOps Co-op, as she interviews RevOps Co-op CEO and Co-Founder, Matt Volm.
With a background in business operations and a keen understanding of the challenges faced by RevOps professionals, Matt shares the story about how the RevOps Co-op community was created, the inspiration behind the RevOpsAF conference, and the exciting future plans for the community. Discover valuable insights and practical advice from Matt and Camela as they delve into the evolution and growth of this vibrant community.
Matt Volm explains the inception of the RevOps Co-op community, which started as part of a broader go-to-market initiative for a software startup called Funnel IQ. Initially focused on developing a revenue operations software product, the team pivoted to concentrate solely on building a community when the product didn’t find market fit. This shift allowed them to address a critical need for shared knowledge and support among RevOps professionals, who often learn on the job without formal resources. The community began with a Slack group and a newsletter, providing valuable resources and fostering a support network for those in the RevOps field.
Matt shares his personal experience of stepping into a RevOps role without formal guidance or resources. As the VP of Business Operations at an early-stage software company, he was responsible for revenue operations but had to figure things out as he went along. This experience highlighted the importance of having a community where professionals can share knowledge, seek advice, and support each other. The RevOps Co-op was created to fill this gap, offering a platform where members could learn from each other's experiences and grow in their careers.
The RevOps Co-op quickly evolved from a simple Slack group and newsletter to a comprehensive support system for RevOps professionals. Matt and his team listened to the needs of their members and added various programs, including courses, a paid membership version, and in-person events. This approach ensured that the community provided tangible value, helping RevOps professionals excel in their roles and advance their careers. By fostering a sense of belonging and offering practical resources, the RevOps Co-op has become a trusted source of truth in the RevOps industry.
Camela and Matt discuss the burnout potential in RevOps, especially during the pandemic. With the sudden shift to remote work and increased pressures, many professionals faced significant stress. Matt shares insights into managing burnout, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing tasks and aligning with company goals. By fostering open communication and ensuring that RevOps teams focus on strategic priorities, organizations can help their employees manage stress and avoid burnout.
One of the biggest challenges in RevOps is maintaining alignment across different departments. Matt talks about the importance of getting agreement from sales, marketing, and customer success teams on the priorities for each quarter. By involving all stakeholders in the decision-making process and regularly communicating the company's objectives, RevOps professionals can ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals. This alignment is crucial for the success of RevOps initiatives and overall business growth.
The idea for the RevOpsAF conference came to Matt during a trip to Nashville, where he saw a mural that inspired the name. RevOpsAF stands for "RevOps as F*ck," reflecting the dedicated and passionate nature of RevOps professionals. The conference aims to celebrate the RevOps community, offering professional development opportunities and a chance to connect with peers. Despite initial challenges and a tight timeline, the first RevOpsAF conference was a success, attracting 275 participants and featuring keynote speakers, workshops, and networking events.
Looking ahead, Matt shares his vision for the future of RevOpsAF. The goal is to expand the conference globally, with plans for an annual event in the United States and a European counterpart. Currently, the RevOps Co-op community has members from over 45 countries, with a significant portion of its membership hailing from regions outside of the US. This international representation highlights the global reach and appeal of the community. In addition to the flagship conferences, the community will continue to grow through regional events and executive think tank sessions. These initiatives aim to provide valuable insights, foster connections among RevOps leaders, and support the global RevOps community.
The future of RevOpsAF is bright, with ongoing efforts to support and celebrate the RevOps professionals worldwide - ensuring they have the resources and network needed to excel in their careers.
Our average member has more than 5 years of RevOps experience. That means you’ll have real-time access to seasoned professionals. All we ask is that you’re generous with your knowledge in return.
