Sales, Sunsets and Someone Who Gets It

I’ve been in corporate America longer than I care to admit. When I started out, I remember eyeing the seasoned women in my role and thinking, “There’s no way I’ll still be doing this in 20 years.” Oh, the sweet, dumb confidence of youth.

And yet… here I am. Still grinding. No exit in sight. But my early (and often clueless) days did give me one big win: I found a mentor. Not the “I want your job in two years” kind—but a true north. A life coach before we had a word for it.

She was everything I admired—wicked smart, sharp dresser, brilliant in meetings, loving mom, and refreshingly real. We met at a welcome reception. After two glasses of wine and the standard corporate mingling dance, I was making my escape when we struck up a conversation. We bonded over product flaws, leadership gaps, and yes—some high-quality gossip. I had just been promoted, relocated, and knew exactly zero people. She saw me. Took me in.

Sales can be a lonely gig. Your best friend is often your sixth personality. So when you find someone who gets it—and sticks? That’s not just a good day. That’s a great frickin’ day.

So here’s my advice:
Find the woman who makes it look effortless. Then ask her how she does it.
Chances are, she’ll share the mess behind the magic—and if you’re lucky, take you under her wing.

I’m so grateful mine did.  One of my favorite pics of her/us, the sunset behind her makes her look like an angel. My angel.