When you observe the trajectory of successful organizations, whether Microsoft, Apple or upstarts like the Dollar Shave Club, and Warby Parker, it’s clear that innovation sets them apart from the competition.

No one uses rotary phones to make calls anymore, the age of mimeograph paper is long gone, and soon the idea of using “gut instincts” to drive marketing campaigns will feel just as archaic. We have officially entered the age of data-driven marketing—and marketers who rely on their guts alone may find themselves increasingly ineffective in an industry capitalizing on data insights to reach customers.

Whether it’s Jeff Bezos (Amazon), Sam Walton (Walmart) or any other founder who managed to build a multi-billion dollar operation, the question will inevitably come up: “What was the secret?” While these entrepreneurs may mention timing, innovation and hard work as the reasons behind their success, they all emphasized the importance of focusing on the customer first.

By considering our customers’ unique sales journey and buying styles, we can tailor our messages and sales approach, and increase our sales effectiveness.

I used to think that great deals started with a great product and closed with a Jedi salesperson that could mystically anticipate every customer objection and demonstrate product superiority in terms of benefits, features, and price. I realized that if I maintained this outlook, the customer starts to feel like the enemy. As I watched sales cycle after sales cycle, my perspective changed.