3 things I learned in my first 60 days

It is always humbling to do something new and to become a student again.  As much as you think you know your profession or specialty there is always more to learn, new ways to think and completely different challenges.  I came into this with a very open mind and a willingness to learn the business from the ground up.  Previous to taking this role I had always stated at previous companies that I wouldn't take a sales leadership role until I mastered the rep position.  Well, we all know that didn't exactly happen with this opportunity which has forced me to learn two roles at once.  I'm learning how to be a sales rep and sales leader in this new company and new industry all at once.  So here are three of the larger lessons learned in my first 60 days:

1. My Past has prepared me for today

I have learned that all of my previous experiences have prepared me for exactly where I am today.  For anyone out there who feels frustrated or stuck in a position they don't love or anyone that feels underpaid I promise you that it will all pay off if you continue to strive for more.  Just know that what seems trivial to you now will once be a small piece of a much larger puzzle.  I recall my days of cold calling on the phone and in person which has since made me completely comfortable on the phones today and with meeting strangers for lunch.  My days of searching Monster.com as a sales manager with Cintas are actually coming back to help me now.  All of my time in Big Corporate America is helping me implement sales structure and a solid foundation for growth.  I was too caught up in the weeds to see how each and every day was preparing me for the next.

2. Networking success

I'm extremely grateful for my network of friends, family and previous work relationships.  My mother always told me to never burn a bridge and that "what goes around comes around".  I'm so glad I listened to her as a kid.  I'm very grateful to everyone in my network (online and offline) who have not only supported my move but who have also gone above and beyond to assist me in my new role.  What is most important is that you take the stance of "how can I help you".  When you approach a relationship or job with "what's in it for me" you won't find much love. However, for the last 2-3 years I've made a conscious effort to help others and to figure out what's important to them.  Once you solve this riddle you find that helping them alone is reward enough.  Be sincere with your words and authentic with your actions and never expect anything in return; that is the key to a winning relationship.

3. Follow your passion

Now let's be real... Being a VP of Sales is just a title. Being a professional sales person is not my passion.  Being in the staffing and recruiting business is not my passion.  Wait...what!?!?  you said to follow your passion.  YES!  I am super passionate about helping others and making a difference.  This opportunity is giving me the ability to help people on many levels.  I get to help a good friend grow his company. I get to create jobs internally as we grow. I get to help businesses find top talent and ultimately find jobs for people that match their needs.  I'm 41 and turning 42 next week.  It took me a long time to realize what drives me.  If you aren't sure what motivates you or what your life calling is, that is okay.  Many famous people didn't find their passion or achieve success until much later in life.  Dig deep, find what you love and want to do for many years to come, and chase it like it's the last bus out of town at midnight.

60 days later I am still pumped up about the move I chose.  I am learning something new every day and that excites me.  I am meeting new people and continuing to be a servant leader.  I am following my passion and I am enjoying every minute of it.  Go do what makes you happy today and every day.  

Joe O'Connell, VP of Sales, MatchPoint Consulting Group, [email protected] or 610-937-5800

Let me know your thought?  If you liked this share it.  If you have questions please reach out.  If you have comments please share below.  If you have topic ideas for me to write on next, please send them my way.  Until next time...