Getting to Know Cellular Sales: Rick Pastorek
Posted on 13. Feb, 2012 by Jay Witherspoon in Uncategorized
Rick Pastorek and Family with LSU Santa
What position(s) do you hold at Cellular Sales?
Wireless Sales Professional
How long have you worked with the company?
5 months
What is your role within Cellular Sales?
Drive revenue by providing outstanding customer service. To me, it is all about making a connection with the customer and finding out what brings them to our location. I want to exceed their expectations in dealing with Verizon Wireless, Cellular Sales and myself as their Customer Service Rep. Sales reps ask me all the time, how do you know so many people? I don’t. My goal is for when the customer leaves the store that I know them and they know me. I try to find a common bond and a way to connect with our customers through church, schools, work, common industry, people they may know, their children or any way that I can relate to them. I tell them stories about my experiences and most importantly I listen to them. Find out their needs and what is most important to them. I need to develop a level of trust that they know I am going to take care of them and their wireless needs.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience — your proudest moment — since you joined the company.
My most rewarding or satisfying experience is being on top of the leader board in the Baton Rouge (Gulf Coast) market. Also, being the number two sales rep in GC for the month of December. I enjoy the friendly competition in our market and region. My job is to provide fierce competition for my fellow sales reps. We keep each other on our toes. This month the entire Gulf Coast market is trying to exceed our Market Manager’s sales numbers.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work for?
Cellular Sales is an outstanding company that represents the number one brand in the wireless industry. I am proud to tell people that we have 500 locations that represent a significant portion of Verizon’s market share. I really enjoy the group of professionals and back office personnel that our Regional Directors have assembled as part of our team. Team GC is a force to be reckoned with as we grow the Verizon brand from Lafayette, LA to Pensacola, FL.
What do you like best about working for Cellular Sales?
I like the freedom to pursue customers anywhere I can find them. I love that our Regional Directors treat us as partners in the business. We are given the tools to succeed. I also want to give a shout out to the Back Office, Inventory Closet and CSOKI support. I tell people all the time that you don’t know how awesome the support is that we are provided!
Are there any obstacles you face at work?
None that we can’t overcome. I tell my customers that I am a problem solver. We will go out of our way to make sure they are a satisfied customer. And look at the facilities that Alec Rankine, Chad Maxedon and Cellular Sales provide for us to work our magic in. They are outstanding and second to no one!!!
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales?
Well, let’s just say I had to help a customer change her child’s diaper while I was selling her a RAZR. Sherri Logan in Abbeville can tell you the rest of the story!!! Remember, we provide outstanding customer service. The carpet fresh came in handy!
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
Before working for Cellular Sales, I was the Franchise Owner for Bennigan’s Grill and Tavern in Louisiana, Alabama, and Tennessee operating 13 locations for the last 27 years. The movie, Waiting, was filmed at one of my locations. It was a comedy, not reality!
What are your hobbies?
Chasing my three older sons, Mason, Taylor, and Chandler around a dirt bike track. They are racing the Outdoor Winter series in Southern Louisiana and Mississippi. My wife, Heather, and I are their Sponsor, Chief Mechanic, Promoter, Caterer and Travel Managers. My youngest son Noah is our rider in training. He is 22 months old and already knows where the kick start is.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you?
A large container of Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning for all of the fish and coconut’s that I am going to cook, along with everything else I can find to eat. Remember, Cajuns eat anything! Also, I would have pictures of my wife and sons and a Satellite Phone.
If a phone was named after you, what would it be called?
Why don’t we just call it the Rockin’ Roll Motorola Rickola.
And finally…DROID or iPhone?
DROID, they are far superior devices to the iPhone. With that being said, we strive to exceed the customers expectation. If they want an iPhone, we will be happy to oblige!
Getting To Know Cellular Sales: Garet Bartholomew
Posted on 27. Jan, 2012 by Jay Witherspoon in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Garet Bartholomew (right) with his Uncle Julio Guzman (left).
What position(s) do you hold at Cellular Sales?
UN Training Coordinator, Sales Rep.
How long have you worked with the company?
One year.
What is your role within Cellular Sales?
I am responsible for coordinating the training of all new employees. I organize and implement new curriculum, pair new mentees with compatible mentors, upload necessary files, forms, and training documents specific to the trainee into a global server for mentors to update, and communicate all travel and schedule arrangements to mentees. I am also responsible for monitoring and maintaining the UN training team and curriculum, gathering feedback from the mentors, and facilitating program evolution.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience – your proudest moment – since you joined the company.
I have never had a job that kept me from living paycheck to paycheck before this. My father was diagnosed with cancer last January and forced into early retirement leaving my parents behind on their mortgage. Thankfully, I was actually able to pick [their mortgage] up for them. I still hold that experience and accomplishment close to me. It seemed impossible at the time but I overcame it and now know that there is nothing too big to conquer.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work for?
In my eyes, Cellular Sales isn’t just a career – it’s a lifestyle. This company has such a huge effect on people both inside and outside of the job. I have never, in any other job, watched so many men and woman go through the transition that occurs when one is truly happy with their home and work life. We are given the tools from day one to succeed – and as we [succeed], this company will always succeed. It’s intoxicating and energizing. CSOKI will always be addicting, turning incredibly smart individuals into even smarter, happier and motivated giants.
What do you like best about working for Cellular Sales?
I have found that no matter where you go in this nation you can find CSOKI reps. They might be climbing a mountain or skydiving or doing some crazy thing but there is an instant comfort around them when you find them. I have never met a CSOKI rep that I couldn’t have an awesome conversation with. We are all so like-minded but different at the same time. I have never been more motivated than I [am] while around Cellular Sales reps. The competitive nature of the company along with the like-minded teams is a huge driving factor. I know I will never get bored or stagnant with this company and that is what I like most about working here.
Are there any obstacles you face at work?
For those that know me well, they say my brain must look like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. I rely heavily on a few of my close coworkers to sort out the ongoing pile of ideas that pour out of my mouth on a daily basis to tell me what’s good and what’s bad.
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales?
I have so many, especially after working with the UN Show Team, but I must say one that sticks in my head the most is watching, Chris “Chart” Heart, close a phone by yelling, “LOUD NOISES!” during a tractor pull in Boonville, NY. Tractor pulls are extremely loud and this made the customer laugh and he was able to pull them in and close the sale. Chris also made a woman in a wheel chair get up and dance with the help of Mackenzie at that same show. Anytime the UN Show Team (AKA Shark Squad) travels, ridiculous things will happen.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I worked on a twelve man team as a Special Operations Officer for the State of Colorado. High action and high stress.
What are your hobbies?
I’m a musician and a painter.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you?
A moonshine still, crate of beef jerky and Kristen Bell.
If a phone was named after you, what would it be called?
HTC Snooze.
And finally… DROID or iPhone?
I love both but I’m a salesman through and through. Until they count for new lines I’m going DROID all the way.
Sketchbook Pro on Android OS
Posted on 25. Jul, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in Mobile Applications
Sketchbook Pro just released an Android tablet version of their amazing digital sketching software. Available for the Android phones and tablet as well as the iPhone and iPad, Sketchbook comes with digital pencils, pens, markers and airbrushes. Its multi-touch gesture interface is easy to use and has the resources to help you create everything from cool sketches to amazing art.
Getting To Know Cellular Sales – Alfred Millikan – Knoxville, TN
Posted on 28. Feb, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in Company News, Getting to Know Cellular Sales, Uncategorized
ALFRED MILLIKAN – KNOXVILLE, TN
What is your title?
I call myself a Wireless Lifestyle Consultant.
How long have you worked with the company?
I started August 24th, 2010.
What is it your role within Cellular Sales?
I want to make sure that everyone’s wireless is set up for their needs and lifestyle. Whether it is a wireless handset, mobile broadband connection, personalized price plans or general all around customer service, I will find exactly what the customer needs. From businesses to friends and family, I want to make sure everyone’s needs are met.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience, your proudest moment, since you joined the company.
My most rewarding experience to date was when my team leader called me up as being #6 on the leader-board across the market and that was my third month of working with Cellular Sales.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work for?
One of the things I really like is meeting customers. Everyone is different and each day is different. Internally, the team I work with is outstanding. Everyone is motivated to do their best and make a good living. The job is a lot more complicated than people give us credit for and we all do our best to find solutions to our customer’s needs.
What do you like best about working for Cellular Sales?
The location change is one the best things. I love going to different stores each day. There is no monotony and every day isn’t cookie cutter. There is nothing that is standard and no day is ever typical.
Are there any obstacles you face at work?
Not that I’ve seen so far. The only obstacle I see is keeping the drive alive and that is not a problem for me.
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales?
Having lived out West for so many years, I’ve forgotten about the local dialect in East Tennessee. For example, I had a customer come in the store and say “Hey, youins got any of them free cell phones youins got advertised on your website”? It’s great to be home and I love East, TN but the dialect brings me back to reality.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I’ve worked in the Alpine ski industry in the past. I was everything from a ski tech at a shop to a sales exec from American Ski Company.
What are your hobbies?
I build, repair and play electric guitars and I love live music. I also used to travel around following the Dead and other live bands. I’m also an ex-pro Alpine snow skier and mountain biker.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you?
I would have my laptop with satellite wifi, an acoustic guitar and a big supply of mouthwash.
If a phone was named after you, what would it be called?
Phatty Phone
And finally….Droid or iPhone?
Droid X, all the way!
Getting To Know Cellular Sales – Blake Andrews – Austin, TX
Posted on 17. Feb, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in Company News, Getting to Know Cellular Sales
BLAKE ANDREWS – CELLULAR SALES, AUSTIN, TX
What is your title?
Recruiting Coordinator and Training Coordinator
How long have you worked for the company?
Two years
What is it your role within Cellular Sales?
I handle the recruiting and training coordination for the market…just like my title says! I screen resumes, conduct phone interviews and 1st interviews, coordinate all the 2nd/final interviews for the Regional Director or Sales Managers. I also actively recruit by attending job fairs. On the training side I am responsible for getting the trainees through the process of Snelling, scheduling them for their National training week, assigning them to a mentor/trainer, and tracking them through the training process all the way to their dealer code meeting.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience, your proudest moment, since you joined the company.
Outside of being able to recruit for my market, it was receiving the “Committment to Excellence Award” at the end of the year market meeting. I was given the award for being one of the most committed to this market, and I believe I am.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work for?
The opportunity is what makes Cellular Sales so special. It is unlike any other company in regards to opportunity. Some people see it more clearly than others or run with it more than others, but coming in and being your own boss and yet having someone holding you accountable for success is unlike anywhere else… It is great having like-minded people to bounce ideas off of and can help you when you need it. The overall opportunity is something that is unlike anywhere else. It comes down to where you are the happiest and I am happiest at Cellular Sales. Realistically, this company provides so much for someone that wants to make it happen.
What’s different about it from other companies?
Cellular Sales is different because it provides someone an opportunity to be self managed. Basically, they give you most, if not all, of the tools and say, “Go run your business. Be successful, and have fun.” But if you don’t hit your goals, or need coaching, or need support there are people in leadership who have been the best at your position who can give council and coaching.
What do you enjoy most about working for Cellular Sales?
Personally, I enjoy surrounding myself with people that are better than me. Some people, in work, surround themselves with people that are less successful than them so that they appear to be the best. Our reps and leadership are the best, and they help me grow into the person that I want to be.
Are there any obstacles you face at work?
Not enough time in the day.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
Nothing too interesting actually. I’ve worked at several coffee shops over the years, and I got to meet and work with a lot of interesting people.
Are you married?
Yes, married 5 years this March.
Do you have kids?
2 kids – 2.5 years-old, and 6 months-old
What do you enjoy doing with your family?
I enjoy just playing with our boys and going to church together.
What are your hobbies?
Worship Leader, playing guitar and going on dates with my wife.
If a cell phone was named after you, what would it be called?
Droid Passion
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you?
My wife, Droid Incredible, a dune buggy.
And finally… Droid or iPhone?
Droid…but the iPhone is a good phone.
For more information about Cellular Sales, visit CellularSales.com or JoinCellularSales.com.
Verizon’s McAdam Confirms $30 Unlimited Data For iPhone
Posted on 25. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in Wireless Industry
Excerpt:
“I’m not going to shoot myself in the foot,” he said. Not offering an unlimited plan would put up a barrier for customers who might otherwise switch from AT&T, he said.
Wall Street Journal:
Verizon iPhone: $30 Unlimited Data
Geeks, 2011 Will Be One To Remember!!
Posted on 24. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in 4G LTE, Wireless Industry
LTE is rolling out to millions more Americans in 2011. Handsets (not just wireless Internet devices) will be starting to roll out very soon, and the population of our great nation will be bug-eyed at what their phones will be able to do.
For all you geeks who look ahead at new equipment before it comes out, here’s a review packed with specs for an upcoming LTE device from manufacturer LG:
The LG Revolution can only be described as the Verizon 4G LTE outsider. Does it have what it takes to become a success?
If you want to learn more about 4G and the blazing-fast LTE service from Verizon, visit or call a Cellular Sales location today!
One Benefactor of LTE Technology: Telemedicine
Posted on 14. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in 4G LTE, Wireless Equipment
Rural America will benefit from Verizon’s LTE network. Network speeds and increased wireless penetration will enable doctors and surgeons to reach into more remote areas with faster connections than ever before, to apply expertise wherever it’s needed, via live video. It will save lives, time, and money.
At CES, Verizon and BL Healthcare showed off an LTE-enabled telemedicine terminal.
Just a friendly reminder that a 4G network is not all about gaming and socializing.
ZDNet: Five Reasons Why It May Be Motorola Mobility’s Time
Posted on 12. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in Wireless Industry
An upcoming Motorola device connects here to a "gutless" laptop, and powers the device with its own processors and operating system.
The Verizon iPhone is getting the lion’s share of media attention this week, but here’s an interesting article about the prospects for Motorola and its upcoming wireless offerings, including a device that promises to bridge the gap between desktop and handheld computing. Given the processing power of upcoming mobile devices, it begs the question, “Do I need that desktop tower if my phone is just as powerful?” The Motorola device would connect to a monitor and keyboard, simply replacing the redundant processors and operating systems on your desktop. Smells like the future to me.
Summary:
Amid the hubbub over Verizon’s iPhone and the war with AT&T one of the biggest winners not named Apple may be Motorola Mobility.
-Jay Witherspoon, Director of Advertising, Cellular Sales
Verizon LTE Expansion Cities Announced For 2011
Posted on 10. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in 4G LTE, Wireless Industry
One of the most exciting announcements made last week during CES was Verizon’s unveiling of the list of cities getting 4G LTE service sometime during 2011. It’s a very long list, and one that’s bound to get you excited if you are considering catapulting yourself into the future of wireless connectivity.
Check out the full list here (near the bottom).
-Jay Witherspoon, Director of Advertising, Cellular Sales
Verizon Unveils 4G Hardware Slated For First Half of 2011
Posted on 07. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in 4G LTE
OnStar Offering New Rear View Mirror Device with Verizon Wireless Connectivity
Posted on 06. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in 4G LTE, Wireless Industry
There’s a lot of cool stuff happening at CES. At 4pm EST, Verizon CEO will be presenting on the Verizon 4G/LTE Network. Click here to register for a free, live Webinar.OnStar teams with Verizon for wireless rear-view mirror: FierceWireless
Happy New Year, From Cellular Sales!!
Posted on 03. Jan, 2011 by Jay Witherspoon in Uncategorized
Cellular Sales looks forward to one of the most exciting years ever to sell Verizon Wireless products and services. 2011, here we come.
In December, Cellular Sales added the following locations to its roster of Verizon retail locations:
Bartow
110 E. Van Fleet Drive Unit 1A
Bartow, FL 33830
863-533-6902
Six Guns
4955 East Silver Springs Boulevard
Ocala, FL 34470
352-390-8292
James Island
861 Folly Road Suite 101
James Island, SC 29412
843-789-4140
Brookhaven
5005 Edgemont Avenue
Brookhaven, PA 19015
484-816-0187
Chambersburg Mall
3055 Black Gap Rd
Chambersburg, PA 17202
717-261-0149
Waynesboro
12785 Washington Boulevard Suite 118
Waynesboro, PA 17268
717-765-6928
Moffett Road
7880 Moffett Road
Semmes, AL 36575
Cedar Bluff
1027 N Cedar Bluff Rd
Knoxville, TN 37923
865-247-4139
Sequatchie County
320 Rankin Road
Dunlap, TN 37327
Elberton
800 Heard Drive
Elberton, GA 30635
706-283-5303
Arbor Place
6700 Douglas Boulevard #1550
Douglasville, GA 30135
770-489-0364
Copperas Cove
2726 E. Hwy 190 Suite
Copperas Cove, TX 76522
254-577-5125
Taylor
1903 N Main Street
Taylor, TX 76754
For a location near you, visit CellularSales.com.
CNN: Apple preparing Verizon-compatible iPad?
Posted on 29. Dec, 2010 by Jay Witherspoon in Uncategorized
I am very much looking forward to hearing announcements in the very near future about upcoming devices. It’s going to be an exciting year for Verizon and for Cellular Sales!
CNN.com: Apple preparing Verizon-compatible iPad?
Cellular Sales Hilton Head, Ronald Futch Land Solid Review On MeasuredUp.com
Posted on 20. Dec, 2010 by Jay Witherspoon in Customer Service
Cellular Sales’ Hilton Head location leaves lasting impression.
A customer visited our location in Hiltone Head, SC. They experienced the Cellular Sales customer expereince as brought to then by Ronald Futch. Ronald did such a great job they did a review on MeasuredUp.com. Brian Snyder, Regional Director, stated, “Ronald is a great part of Cellular Sales, and the personal experience is core to our service.”
An excerpt:
I had received professional, one-on-one service from a consultant who actually cared about my needs and wants and seemed very knowledgeable about all of their products and services. Ronald said that Cellular Sales of Knoxville takes pride in having that more intimate, personal relationship with its clients.
Read the full review here.
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