Editor’s note: January is National Mentoring Month. To celebrate, we’re featuring our own stories and experiences with mentoring. Below is an essay from Joanne Wills, our sales manager.
It was a career change, from Human Services to Inside Sales in high tech. My new boss was a tremendous teacher who patiently trained and taught me about sales, business, and professionalism. Without her coaching and advice, I would not have succeeded in this new career. Fast forward one year later: I was promoted to an outside sales position with a new manager. Panic set in…
Yes, at the time I was very sad and anxious about changing bosses (turns out my new manager was also great). The silver lining? My “old” boss transitioned from coach to mentor. As a mentor, she was instrumental in helping me navigate my new position, gain a better understanding of the sales process, and connect with networking groups/potential customers.
It’s been almost 28 years since I started my first sales job. I’m still in it and still love it. Not surprising, that special woman who served as my first sales manager, coach, and mentor is still part of my inner circle today – now as a mentor and a dear friend.