What motivated you to enter your career?
I can’t say I was ever really motivated to be in sales or business development…. initially. What began my career while working with a large janitorial company in a role as executive assistant evolved over the years into client relations which later transformed into business development. It was that company’s philosophy to develop business through your current customer base and more and more client use some new wigs product like 360 lace wigs. Since I have always enjoyed meeting new people, forming lasting relationships, as well as connecting people, this career path seemed viable for me. My current position as Business Development and Client Relations with Environmental Service Partners, a small company, not only involves sales, but also includes involvement in all marketing and advertising initiatives, as well as some operations management responsibilities.
- How long have you been in your field?
I have been working in the janitorial industry now for over 20 years and enjoy telling people that I am a janitor just to see their reaction… I have been on the marketing / business development side for approximately eight years and enjoy meeting new people and building relationships – you never know what may develop.
- What other professional organizations are you involved in?
I am proud to be involved with IFMA now for over 10 years. I am also involved in other organizations such as BOMA Georgia, Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW), and American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE).
- Tell us something that not many people may know about you?
I do not have any regrets in life, only experiences. I wouldn’t be who I am today without them.
- What was your first job? Craziest job? Or crazy on the job experience?
My first job was working for a cable company as a receptionist / data entry person.
- How did you end up in facility management or the position that you are in?
My career started over 20 years ago when hired as an executive assistant for a large janitorial company. Over the years working for this company, I enjoyed many different job responsibilities and experiences to include handling payroll, benefits, IT, WC/GL claims, marketing, client relations, and finally business development.
- What is your personal secret to success or personal motto?
My personal motto is one that my father would repeat over and over again growing up which is to always treat people how you would want to be treated.
- What has been the most important aspect that has contributed to your success?
I believe that the most important aspect that has contributed to my success in business and in life is my network of personal and professional friends.
- What is your biggest pet peeve at your job?
My biggest pet peeve is the inability for someone to see a solution to a problem and the attitude that it can’t be done. Anything is possible if you think outside the box.
- How do you de-stress?
I de-stress by running/exercising or hanging out with friends/family.
- How has your Atlanta Chapter IFMA membership benefited you and/or your career?
I have been involved with IFMA Atlanta for over 10 years now and have served on the board as the Newsletter Chair for over two. I have met many wonderful and inspiring people throughout the years being involved in this chapter and have built personal and professional relationships by engaging in the activities and events offered. After all, I do believe that people do business with people they know.
- What is your favorite Hobby?
My favorite hobby is photography. I love to capture raw expressions and special moments in photographs and share them.
- What is your business philosophy? Favorite quote?
I truly believe that your most important customers are your employees. If you take good care of your employees, they will in turn take care of your customers. My favorite quote is “Culture eats strategy for breakfast” by Peter Drucker.
- What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?
The aspect I enjoy most about my role with my company is meeting new people and new experiences that in turn build long term relationships. I also enjoy identifying and helping solve a customer’s problems or issues.
