Say hello to Ashley, a Director on our Local Sales team! Ashley recently celebrated her 8th Yelpiversary and is diving into what her #FiveStarCareer has looked like over the last eight years.
How did you know you wanted to pursue a job in sales?
I never thought that I would end up working in sales. I like to think that sales pursued me! I love talking to and getting to know all different types of people. Growing up, I was the kid who would make a presentation for every new toy I wanted in order to sell my parents on the value. When I saw the opportunity at Yelp, I was excited to try something new in a field I could be passionate about with a product I already loved.
What is your advice to someone interested in sales?
I love sales because the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Not only is the sky the limit in sales, but it has also changed me for the better as a person. It has taught me how to be confident, handle adversity and rejection, communicate effectively, and listen actively. It has given me the means to build the life I had dreamed of for my family and myself.
Tell us about your journey at Yelp
I began my #FiveStarCareer in January 2015 as an Account Executive on the Local Sales team. I was promoted to Sales Training Director in 2018 and I worked in both San Francisco and Phoenix for a year. I was later promoted to Local Sales Director, and I have been in this role for 3.5 years.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
My day starts with looking at our pacing numbers and planning out the day/week/month. I meet with my managers throughout the day to help them think through coaching conversations and training sessions that they will have with their team members. I also meet with Account Executives during 1:1s and provide coaching. We often roleplay different conversation scenarios to teach how to diagnose and coach KPIs. I work hard to keep my team’s energy high and align on our vision and impact.
How do you stay motivated to hit your goals during a tough day?
I remind myself why I set those goals in the first place and reframe what a setback is. It is easy to get frustrated with the small stuff, but when I can take a moment to zoom out, I can work through the problem with a new lens. Then I am able to figure out one thing I can own to help turn the problem around.
Tell us something you learned from the Yelp Sales Development Program that made you a better salesperson
I learned that power is not just what you say, but how you say it. Tone and conviction in our words hold just as much weight, if not more, than what we say.
How does Yelp support your work-life balance?
Yelp’s work-life balance is one of the core reasons that I am still here after eight years. Our leaders emphasize folks using their PTO, encouraging time and space for mental health, and not working overtime. I have been able to take amazing breaks with my family while feeling supported and encouraged by my team to do so.
How does Yelp’s leadership show you that your work is valued?
At Yelp, we practice a culture of over-communication which has created a transparent environment where I always feel that the work I am doing is seen. My boss and the team have consistently been amazing support systems. We cheer each other on and share what is working for us. I get a lot of value in these acts of service as a form of recognition.
Want to work with Ashley?
From day one of your career at Yelp, you will have access to our five-star benefits including monthly wellness reimbursements, 401(k) matching, generous PTO and wellness time off, and more. Check out our open opportunities and apply today!
