Thirteen years ago, Genie G joined our Local Sales team. Over a decade later, she has earned 13 promotions, landed a spot at the top of our Sales Development Program, earned several awards, and so much more – including buying her dream house.
Today, Genie is sharing her story and the moment she knew she had found her home at Yelp.
How did you know that you wanted to pursue a job in sales?
I wanted to earn a higher income and reap more tangible rewards for hard work. I also liked the idea of being an individual contributor and the autonomy that comes with the role, while also being part of a team.
What is your advice to someone interested in sales?
Sales can be challenging and has its ups and downs, but the key to long term success is consistently hitting your quota/target each month. It comes down to working and trusting the process, which takes diligence and attention to detail. People tend to buy from people they like, so having a helpful approach and listening more than talking is key. Get them to open up by asking open-ended questions. Learn more about their needs and operations so that you can realistically provide a solution that makes sense. Always put in 100% effort, even when it’s tough. Believe in the company and product you are selling because having that conviction will help others agree to buy from you.
Why did you want to work at Yelp?
I wanted to work at Yelp because of the mission of connecting people to great local businesses. During the tech bubble when I joined, I knew that paper phone books were becoming a thing of the past, and Yelp had a fun, useful, and cool approach to providing local business information more conveniently. I also was amazed by how vibrant the culture and people are. Everyone seemed so happy and excited to be on this rocketship together, and we knew we had something great as more and more people continued to use the app. Everyday was like walking into a different world filled with bright lights and buzzing high energy bursting from everywhere. It was an overall captivating experience. I knew I wanted to continue to be a part of it for years to come.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
A typical day starts with emails to catch up while having a cup of coffee or tea, followed by an overview of my calendar and strategizing how my day will flow. I plan my pipeline management around any previously booked meetings to balance my day and productivity so I don’t get behind. Since my role requires handling inquiries from several sources throughout the day, I always try to be prepared to pivot conversations so that I can create new opportunities to win hearts and minds, as well as close more transactions.
What is your #1 tip for staying productive while working from home?
My #1 tip for staying productive while working from home is to take care of yourself! For me, it’s staying hydrated and fueled, lighting a candle, taking small breaks to go outside or for a short walk, listening to music, and reading or watching something inspirational.
How do you stay motivated to hit your goals?
I try to remember the bigger picture of why I decided to work for Yelp, the growth and success we’ve experienced as an organization, my individual accomplishments, and my gratefulness. Tough days happen, and that won’t change, but it’s important not to dwell on them because I know if I push through the tough times, brighter days are right around the corner.
Tell us something you learned from the Yelp Sales Development Program that made you a better salesperson
The Yelp Sales Development Program helped me have the endurance to continue to strive to make the next promotion. Whether it is a higher commission payout or base salary, along with the new title, it gave me a sense of ownership of my future and something to always look forward to in this role. With each level of development, I gained more confidence as a salesperson and more enthusiasm to continue to work hard so that I can achieve the next level in the program.
How does your manager or Yelp’s leadership let you know that your work is valued?
My manager is great at letting me know I’m doing a great job, especially when I’m being hard on myself. She shows me stack ranks and how I am doing relative to others in the organization, and it always helps me see things with a more positive perspective.
Tell us about a community that you are proud to be a part of at Yelp
I’m proud to be part of the BlackBurst and YelpParents communities at Yelp. I love sharing and hearing from people who are going through similar experiences and having a wider support system at work. It’s great how much Yelp has evolved in making everyone feel included and represented.
Want to work with Genie?
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