What inspires us to choose a career in sales? I have told many people that I grew up in an automobile showroom. It is a story that I have told often and over the years continue to enjoy relating this experience. As I was growing up, I would jokingly claim that Chrysler, one of the big three auto manufacturers in the United States actually put me through school. My father was a manager at a Chrysler, Plymouth dealership for many years.
I spent many days as a young lad at the showroom admiring the new cars and learning from Dad as well as several salespeople on the floor. Every moment at the showroom was inspiring. I listened intently to the sales pitches, promoting the features, advantages, and benefits of Chrysler automobiles. They talked about engine size, 6 and 8 cylinders, horsepower, automatic transmission, limited slip differentials, power steering and brakes, etc. Every September, I made sure I spent a lot of time at the showroom because the next year’s models arrived at that time. These were my high school years and I juggled my time between school, swim team, tennis team, and the showroom. It was wonderful to be on the showroom floor.
There is no doubt that the inspiration from the dealership guided me towards my sales career. It was a thrill to watch the salespeople at work with their prospects, and ultimately making the sale. It was remarkable to see the excitement and enthusiasm from the salespeople and the genuine interests of the prospects. There were smiles throughout the process culminating with the final handshake and signing the contract. These were the indelible impressions on me. The salesperson identified the need and offered a solution. It was great.
As I continued with my University education, I gave thought to a career in selling cars like my father. However, Dad advised that the automobile business was difficult, and he wanted me to consider an alternative. Nevertheless, selling became a career goal for me. I knew I wanted to be a salesperson but if it would not be cars, I would work to find the right product in the right industry. I fancied automobiles (like all young boys) but Dad’s advice was always good and worthy of consideration.
Tourism and Hospitality seemed to be a natural for me, especially growing up in Hawaii. Most fortunately, I got my break and my career took off. I devoted my years to service and I will make every effort to inspire the next generation of sales leaders in tourism and hospitality.
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