Getting to Know Cellular Sales — Tiffany Tangney, Central Florida
Posted on 28. Jun, 2012 by jharris in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
How long have you been with Cellular Sales? I have been with Cellular Sales for just over three years.
Tiffany (second from left) and her family
What is your title or roll within the company? I am the Central Florida Market Trainer and retain my Sales Consultant status to keep my selling skills sharp and current. And let’s be honest…it’s fun to try to outsell all of your friends.
What initially attracted you to Cellular Sales? I was a newly single mom with two small kids, no income and little to no work experience. I was motivated to make my life function again, but how? I did not have the time or the funds to go back [to college] to get a degree. I met some folks at the gym who work for Cellular Sales (Thanks guys!). After hearing my situation they gave me great advice, “We can get you hired.” When they told me it was selling phones I kind of chuckled but I figured it would get me by until something “better” came along. Little did I know that we sell a buying experience, not phones, and this would become my career.
What keeps you here? What keeps me here is the flexibility to be with my children and the advancement opportunities. However, it is the family type culture Cheyenne and Sarah insist upon that keeps me loyal to this awesome company. With their guidance and support I have been able to accomplish so many things I would have thought were far off in the future.
What has been your most rewarding accomplishment thus far? What are you most proud of? I have a two-way tie for my most rewarding accomplishment. Coining the “Creating Space” concept for the entire company was my first adventure in a group-training role. Also more recently, being part of the founding team to deliver “The Door Dazzle” training here in its debut Central Florida Market, Jacksonville, and soon South Georgia. This one is exciting because it’s easy to learn and it just works! I have so much fun sharing them! We’ll have our customers walking into the other stores saying, “This isn’t the real Cellular Sales” in no time flat!
I am most proud of our new reps here in Central Florida. They soak up the trainings so fast and are excited to use the skills we practice on the floor. We continually have reps in their first three months reaching the top of the leaderboard. When asked how they did it, their answers are classic: “I’m just doing what I learned in training!” I am so very proud of them! When I hear the stories of how they have been able to accomplish personal goals like buying a house, taking a family vacation, or paying off a car, I can’t help but feel giddy for them! Hats off to our recruiting department and mentors too! Without them we’d be a boat with no paddles in still water!
What are some challenges you face on a day-to-day basis, and how do you overcome them? I love being able to travel to other markets and share what has worked so well here in Central Florida. With my two girls it is a challenge. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful man in my corner. It’s his continual support and understanding that get me through any challenge I face. He also taught me most of what I know about selling.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? This is the most unusual, interesting job I’ve ever had! The industry is ever evolving so it keeps us on our toes! Cheyenne and Sarah have allowed and encouraged a very creative, different, and outside-of-the-box training program. It fits our company so well! We aren’t stiff and corporate and our trainings aren’t either!
What are your hobbies? My hobbies are whatever booster club is heading my children’s current hobbies. Right now that would be gymnastics and ballet. I’m at gymnastics three days a week. All I can say is my oldest daughter’s team conditioning makes my Insanity workout look like a light warm up.
And finally, do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales? I was leaving a shift a few weeks ago and getting into my car to drive home when I realized I left a bag in the store. I went back in to grab my bag and when I came back out my car was gone. I thought my co-worker had moved my car as a joke. When [my co-worker] bolted out towards the street I realized it was stolen! I’d left it running for [the thief]! I got it back 5 hours later. Needless to say the situation has been the subject of many eSecuritel jokes and the like.
Getting to Know Cellular Sales: Ricky Salgado, Kansas City
Posted on 23. May, 2012 by jharris in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
What position(s) do you hold at Cellular Sales? Sales Rep/Mentor/Events Team Member.
Ricky Salgado, Cellular Sales of Kansas City
How long have you worked with the company? One year, six months.
What is your role within Cellular Sales? Sell phones and teach people how to sell phones. I currently have four reps that I mentor – teaching them the basics, making sure they are setting daily, monthly and yearly goals. I play a big role in our events program. I help Ralph Haynes, our Events Coordinator, out a lot with multiple shows.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience –your proudest moment – since you joined the company. My proudest moment actually happened very recently. I traveled outside of the Kansas City market to Coastal Texas for the Houston Rodeo. The National Events Coordinator, Mitchell Duncan, challenged me to break the 86 phone record in ten days, which was the most phones ever sold by one rep at the Houston Rodeo event. I sold 100; it was an amazing feeling.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company? Flexibility/Opportunity.
What do you like best about working for Cellular Sales? I like working 3-4 days a week and spending the rest of the time relaxing and enjoying life.
Are there any obstacles you face at work? INVENTORY… and the only other obstacle I face at work is not challenging myself to the fullest. There are a lot of opportunities that I do not feel I take advantage of, and recognizing those is the hardest part.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? Selling cars – I love sales. This [job] reminds me a lot of selling cars, and I loved selling cars. However, phones are definitely easier to get out the door.
What are your hobbies? Golf; I play on an indoor soccer team; I work out quite a bit; and I love down time.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you? [I would have my] two best friends. I’m a huge social person, so I would need company. Also, I’m not creative, so maybe they would come up with an idea.
If a phone was named after you, what would it be called? The Balla Calla Reinvention
And finally…DROID or iPhone? I have a Droid, [and it's] just because I’m waiting for the iPhone 7.
Getting to Know Cellular Sales: Jay Richardson, North Carolina
Posted on 23. May, 2012 by jharris in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Jay Richardson, Cellular Sales of North Carolina
How long have you been with Cellular Sales? I’ve been with Cellular Sales for 2 years.
What is your title or role within the company? Sales Representative
What initially attracted you to Cellular Sales? I was attracted to Cellular Sales for the opportunity to be in business for myself. The income potential and possibilities for success are unlimited for anyone, like myself, that has an entrepreneurial drive and spirit.
What keeps you here? Cellular Sales is a rewarding place to work. Our team, The Franchise, is like one big family. We work well together and support one another. The team leaders and regional directors are great coaches and mentors. They have an interest in helping me achieve my best, and it shows. It is motivating and inspiring to work with a group of people that really care.
What has been your most rewarding accomplishment thus far? What are you most proud of? My most rewarding accomplishment thus far was earning #1 in new lines last year in the North Carolina market.
What are some challenges you face on a day-to-day basis, and how do you overcome them? In a competitive industry and sales environment like ours, there are many challenges in dealing with the public on a day-to-day basis. However, my primary goal, regardless of the situation, is to treat every customer like I would my mother. I want every person I work with to feel I understand their needs and will offer them the best value for their money. This means not just selling them the best product, but providing them the best customer service possible. When they leave the store happy and satisfied with their experience, they will refer other customers and keep coming back. This is gratifying, and helps me deal with any challenges I face.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? The most interesting job I’ve had prior to Cellular Sales was a position as a cook with Aramark Services. I operated a cafeteria and prepared food for 200+ people daily. I didn’t have any formal culinary training prior to the job, but quickly realized I was a talented and creative cook. I honed my skills, which has since become a hobby that I enjoy with my family and friends.
What are your hobbies? I enjoy playing soccer and coaching athletics.
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales? No funny stories so far.
And finally, name your all-time favorite phone, and tell us why. My all-time favorite phone has to be the HTC Droid Incredible. The graphics are outstanding and it’s easy to use.
Getting To Know Cellular Sales: George Argeras, Orlando
Posted on 09. Mar, 2012 by Jay Witherspoon in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
What position(s) do you hold at Cellular Sales?
Sales Leader
How long have you worked with the company?
5-and-a-half years
What is your role within Cellular Sales?
I currently have a team of 40+ reps, and my most important role is getting them to buy into Cellular Sales. Second, is to help mentor and coach them to achieving their short and long-term goals.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience — your proudest moment — since you joined the company.
It’s really tough to pinpoint just one thing in [my] 5+ years [at Cellular Sales]. If I were to narrow it down, my most rewarding experience is coaching underperforming reps to their full potential by helping to bring out the best in them. Highlights include going to the North Georgia market in 2009 and coaching a team of 12 reps for two months to hit their goals and mentoring reps that just got started on my team and watching them grow into top sales reps in anywhere from 30 days to 6 months. It’s all very rewarding to watch unfold. I would also say my proudest moment would be when I got promoted to Sales Leader in May of 2009.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work for?
The best part about working here is the sure fact that there are no limits to your income. All the tools to be successful here are right in front of us; it’s literally your ship.
What do you like best about working for Cellular Sales?
[The best part] definitely has to be the competitive nature of the company and always looking for ways to grow and get better. Even after a great month, Chris and Jeff will sit down with us (Sales Leaders) and reps to breakdown what and where we can improve to do better the next month.
Are there any obstacles you face at work?
Yes… TIME! Even when you think there are enough hour’s in a day to get [done] what needs to be accomplished….there never are. Yet somehow it gets done.
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales?
Back in 2008, a buddy of mine that worked here at the time and I had been killing it month after month. We were always 1st and 2nd on the boards. Another rep and his friend (also a friend of mine) called us out and wanted to challenge us in total VAPS one month. The bet was whoever lost had to show up at the next “All Hands” meeting wearing short, shredded, jean shorts (also known as Daisy Dukes from back in the 90s). Well the good news is I made a lot of money that month. Bad news was my buddy and I lost the bet. It was the most anticipated 7 am meeting in the history of the Orlando market.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
Outside of bartending and serving for several years at a restaurant called Chilis, I did work at KFC my entire senior year of high school. That was interesting…
What are your hobbies?
Traveling to Greece, Vegas, spending time with my family ( especially my brand new son, Zane, who is 4 months old) and helping people make VAPS!
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you?
Internet access, beach chair and a cooler full of adult beverages
If a phone was named after you, what would it be called?
The “GZA Remix”
And finally…DROID or iPhone?
DROID… Currently using the Razr Maxx, and it’s the best phone I’ve owned yet.
Getting to Know Cellular Sales: Rick Pastorek
Posted on 13. Feb, 2012 by Jay Witherspoon in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
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.
Getting to Know Cellular Sales – Richard Lagnese
Posted on 26. Jan, 2012 by dfloyd in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Richard Lagnese of Cellular Sales
Building a strong business requires serving customers and delivering real value that keeps them coming back. Richard Lagnese models this, teaches this and has thriving sales record to prove it. Serving as a Business Consultant & Events Specialist for Cellular Sales, Richard divides his time between outside sales & events and in-store sales & coaching. He helps new employees understand the value Cellular Sales delivers to customers.
This value attracted Richard to Cellular Sales. For the past year, he’s been making local, state and national records. In March 11, he was top sales performer in New York. By July, he made over $11,000 and reached number 3 sales performer in the nation, and he was only working three days a week.
Richard brings a strong record of sales and training to Cellular Sales. In the past, he worked with a national brand, traveling between locations and helping managers and associates sell wired shelving. While he enjoyed the work, he didn’t have the earning potential that Cellular Sales offered.
The possibilities for higher earnings and flexible time for family appealed to Richard. Cellular Sales has afforded him the opportunity to work smart, earn big and spend precious time with his wife and three children. His goal is build a business that will give him flexibility to work 8 months of the year and serve 4 months with his family in missionary work throughout the U.S. and other countries.
One pleasant surprise Richard discovered when he came to Cellular Sales was the team work. Having working in commission sales before, he was used to environments where fellow employees competed to close the your sales. Then, he entered an environment at Cellular Sales where associates think and work as team, supporting one another. Everyone wins.
At the same time, Cellular Sales affords Richard the freedom to work inside and outside the store. He’s free to build his business, set his own goals, and create his work schedule in the way he believes that can make his business succeed.
Richard understands sales. Not only the highs but the challenges as well. He has learned to stay positive and energetic even when business seems slow. Determination, motivation and a positive attitude can overcome challenges and lead to more income and more appointments. He brought this energy and passion to Cellular Sales even though he knew nothing about cell phones. His commitment and discipline have proved successful as Richard has built a business that exemplifies the real value the keeps customers coming back again and again.
Cellular Sales Continues Expanding
Posted on 21. Dec, 2011 by dfloyd in Cellular Sales News, Getting to Know Cellular Sales
2011 marks a year of incredible growth for Cellular Sales. The company opened 134 stores in this year alone. At over 475 stores, expansion has reached the Northeast, South, Midwest and even the Northwest. This year marks 18 years of continuous growth, making Cellular Sales the nation’s largest Verizon premium wireless retailer.
This secret to this growth is simple: a hard-working team of sales associates who consistently focus on meeting the need of their customers. This team of sales associates now exceeds 3500, and it just keeps growing. Cellular Sales attracts people with a drive and dedication to building their own business by serving and supporting their customers.
As the company continues to grow, it continues to search for potential leaders who are interested in working for Cellular Sales. New sales associates enjoy a positive and empowering atmosphere team leaders that inspire, train and help them become better performers. The Cellular Sales’ management philosophy focuses giving sales associates the support to thrive and then stepping out of the way.
As Regional Director Alec Rankin has said, “There is no cap on how much income someone can make.” Unlike some sales companies that have ceilings and other restrictions that can inhibit success. Cellular Sales rewards performers with incredible commission and freedom to build their own business.
As 2011 comes to a close, the company is actively on the lookout for sales professionals who want to build a thriving business. If you are interested in working at Cellular Sales, you can learn more about business opportunities by visiting Join Cellular Sales.
Secrets to Leadership on Display at Cellular Sales
Posted on 30. Nov, 2011 by dfloyd in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
What matters most in leadership? You do. In his new book, “People Follow You,” Jeb Blount discusses what brings out the best in the workforce. Rather, who brings on the best in the workforce. He wants to help leaders realize that people follow people. To be a great leader means to be a person people are willing to follow.
Jeb is teaching people how to become that leader people follow. He focuses on the five key “levers of leadership” that inspire and motivate followers:
- Put people first
- Connect
- Position people to win
- Build trust
- Create positive emotional experiences
Along the way, Jeb spotlights people who model these ideas in their day-to-day leadership. One of the featured leaders is the CEO of Cellular Sales, Dane Scism. With more than 400 stores, Cellular Sales is one of the fastest-growing and most successful companies in America. “Putting people first” is at the heart of the Cellular Sales culture.
The out-of-the-box culture of Cellular Sales is perfect for entrepreneurial people who have the vision and the drive to succeed. These sales associates are given room and responsibility to “thrive on the their own terms.” At the same time, they enjoy a supportive, coaching environment with leaders who are passionate about improving the workplace and who are committed to helping them perform.
When one business partner didn’t like his leader, Dane helped connect him to a leader that helped him thrive. Dane explains, “(H)is history was working for managers and companies that do not recognize the value of putting people first. They just don’t understand that when you put trust in people and give them some freedom, they usually make pretty good decisions. That business partner is still working for us today and continues to be one of our best salespeople. We’ve found that people perform better when they work for people they like, so why have boundaries? Let them pick their own leader.”
Dane’s people-first philosophy is the cornerstone of the Cellular Sales culture from sales associates to customer service to leadership development. He credits this simple but successful formula to his father who taught Dane to “treat people the way you want to be treated.”
To read more of Dane’s story and Jeb’s leadership inspiration, pick up a copy of “People Follow You.”
Getting to Know Cellular Sales – Alec Rankine – Gulf Coast Market
Posted on 19. Jul, 2011 by Scott Sutton in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Alec Rankine of Cellular Sales talks with the Cellular Sales Blog.
What is your title? I am a Regional Director for Cellular Sales, I operate the Gulf Coast Market.
What do you like best about working with Cellular Sales? Well, the nature of the question says it all. Working “WITH” Cellular Sales. I remember my interview in ’96 vividly. Dane Scism, our CEO, was interviewing me, and simply said, “If you want a boss, or a job, you are in the wrong place. If you want to be my business partner and share profits, then this may be a good fit for you.” I guess 15 years later it must have been a pretty good fit.
That business model is still what I strive to get across to every candidate that goes through our interview process. It truly is unique and many people don’t grasp it until they join our company and experience that culture. But that’s what makes us different and I love it.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work with? Again, the fact that we treat our sales reps as business partners and not expendable parts is truly unique in this industry. I have been in the Gulf Coast region for eleven months and we have not terminated a contract with a single rep for productivity issues. Nor has anyone quit. I think that says a lot. (I was also a Regional Director in Central Florida for 5+ years and we had less than 5% turnover annually.)
When you find the right individuals for our company (and that’s not easy) and you treat them as business partners, the culture becomes very positive and empowering. We don’t threaten our sales people. We don’t manage by fear. We hopefully inspire them to be their best and provide an environment which fosters their growth. It is a process. It can take months before a sales rep truly has a grasp of our business, and that is perfectly fine. Some of my best hires in the past took a year or two before they really caught on and became great reps. It is extremely rewarding when that happens.
What’s different about it from other companies? Well, I have already sort of differentiated us with my example of low turnover, but I think maybe the biggest difference is how we compensate our people. There truly is NO cap on how much income someone can make. In other wireless companies the top producers reach a ceiling. They are actually penalized once they go above their quota. I love it when I interview someone who has wireless industry experience. Once they see our commission numbers their eyes typically get huge and I can see the excitement. Basically, our compensation really rewards excellence. If a sales rep is mediocre, our compensation for mid level productivity is only moderatley higher than some of the higher paying competitors. But the big producers really can see a huge difference in their income. This allows us to keep our superstars happy. And any good leader knows that keeping your talent happy is vital to your long term success. So, if I have to compare us to our peers in this industry, I would say that is the biggest difference, (other than the aforementioned cultural dynamics which also make us so unique.)
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? Hmmm… Tough question. I have had all kinds of jobs. While in college, I was not the best student in the world… to put it mildly. But I always had a great work ethic. So I often had two or three jobs. I remember one summer I was bartending at nights,(morning bartending is just not very profitable…) and I went to a temp agency to find some work during the day. The first job they sent me to was in a warehouse. I had done tons of manual labor jobs before, so I just figured it would be a basic warehouse job. Once I walked in I saw that it was a machinist warehouse and they actually wanted me to operate a blowtorch. Not gonna happen. I had to leave and go back to the agency and ask for a different assignment. Who knows what might have happened if I had stayed. “Blowtorching” may have been my calling, but I guess we’ll never know.
What are your hobbies? I love to run. It is the ultimate exercise for me. I have completed 13 half marathons and half dozen shorter races. I also enjoy working out and playing tennis. I also passionately despise golf. Is that a hobby?
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales? Hmmm… funny stories about Cellular Sales… Where do I begin? Of course when you deal with the general public face to face every day for 10 years, you are going to meet some interesting people. I think my favorite story is the time a customer brought his pet monkey into our store in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. I was working with two other reps and a customer brought in his pet monkey which was wearing overalls. He was very friendly and cool, but he was also pretty large. I have always heard monkeys and chimps have super strength… so I tried not to make him angry. He actually sat on Laura Lynn’s shoulder most of the time(one of my co-workers)but when I went to take a picture of him he jumped from her shoulder to mine and the picture is pretty funny with the monkey in mid air jumping towards me. Fortunately I did not enrage the monkey and lived to talk about it.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you? Assuming I can’t take my girlfriend, (gotta stay out of trouble here…) it would have to be a water purifier, a satellite telephone with a solar-powered rechargeable battery, so I could call somebody to get me off that island, and a king size bed, not a fan of sleeping on the ground.
Getting to Know Cellular Sales – Ted Thompson – North Georgia
Posted on 30. May, 2011 by Scott Sutton in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
What is your title? Director of Recruiting for the North Georgia Market
How long have you worked for the company? I have been here 3 years
What is it your role within Cellular Sales? Number one, I am an ambassador for the company. I let everyone know what a great company Cellular Sales is and what a fantastic opportunity it is to be in apartnership with Cellular Sales. After that, I am out looking for honest, personally responsible, hard-working people to join our team.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience, your proudest moment, since you joined the company. The satisfaction I get from changing people’s lives.
What do you like best about working with Cellular Sales? The people around me and the freedom and lifestyle it affords me.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work with? I think working for a company that has vision that comes from the top down. Again, it goes back to working for a company that has a strong balance. It’s all about what you do. What you put in is what you get out.
What’s different about it from other companies? Number one, is the management style. This company affords you the ability to do your own thing. You do what works for you and gives you the flexibility to be your own person.
Are there any obstacles you face at work? My biggest obstacle is being able to have the elevator conversation with somebody and being able to convey what a wonderful opportunity it is to work for Cellular Sales. It is hard to describe all the great things about Cellular Sales in a short amount of time.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? (Laughs) I worked for a salvage company in high school. The company bought everything that was lost from UPS for .10 on the lbs. One of the weirdest items I came across a big box of live baby chickens.
Are you married? Yes.
Do you have kids? A 9 year old girl and a 6 year old boy.
What are your hobbies? My family, golf, I coach a lot of little league teams (football and baseball).
Have you ever met anyone famous? If so, who? During the Olympics in 1996, I took a job at Ritz Carlton. I was able to meet Bruce Willis, Demi Moore, Richard Branson and Donald Trump.
Do you have a funny story about working with Cellular Sales? A couple of years ago we had someone breaking into our stores stealing equipment. The Regional Directors put me in charge of finding out who was responsible. Working with the police and mostly doing online research on the thief, I found out where he lived and where he frequented around town. I used flyers around the community including the church, bars and clubs he went to and offered a $500 reward for his whereabouts. The police called me one day and said that the culprit finally turned himself in…only because he was tired of running from me. I was given the nickname “The Wolf” by my fellow Cellular Sales representatives.
If a cell phone was named after you, what would it be called? The Wolf.
And finally….Droid or iPhone? Droid
Getting to Know Cellular Sales – Brian Snyder – South Georgia
Posted on 18. May, 2011 by Scott Sutton in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Brian Snyder of Cellular Sales sits down with the Cellular Sales Blog.
What is your title? Regional Director- South Georgia Market
How long have you worked with the company? I’ve been with Cellular Sales since 1996.
What is it your role within Cellular Sales? Support our sales representatives, develop future leaders, and expand our operations.
Please tell me about your most rewarding experience. My most rewarding experience is one that I’m so fortunate repeats itself time and time again. Being someone whose life was forever changed by this company, and the reward is watching it happen to so many others. I enjoy hearing the heart-felt stories from our team about how this opportunity has helped them achieve life goals and to live a lifestyle they never knew was possible is something that I will always cherish.
What do you like best about working with Cellular Sales? The people! I’m so blessed to be working with some of the most talented and passionate people I have ever met. They have all helped me in so many ways and continue to do so to this day.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work with? The opportunity this company provides is unparalleled in business today. The experience of owning your own company, building your business, and doing it with minimal investment is truly what makes this company special. The concept of being a sales representative and reaping the benefits of your hard work with no income ceiling is a rare business model, which we are very fortunate to have.
What’s different about it from other companies? The differentiator is that we are an “upside down” company. The decisions made in this company are always decided by one simple question, “is it in the best interest of our sales representatives?” If the answer is “no”, we don’t do it!
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? While in college, I played a Sunday night gig at Hannah’s in Knoxville. I NEVER MADE A DIME! My wonderful friends all assumed I got free beer, so they all put their drinks on my tab. By the end of the night, I paid Hannah’s for the privilege to play. Funny, the number of friends coming to the shows went down as the responsibility for paying their own tabs went up! It really was a great experience, though…
Are you married? Yes. She’s the very talented and beautiful Director of Recruiting for this company!
Do you have kids? We have two children, Bennett and Lauren.
What do you like to do with your family? We love to travel, but mostly we enjoy just hanging out and being silly with each other. Dinner time is a big event in my house!
What are your hobbies? Running, working out, playing golf, and playing the guitar.
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales? Several years ago I was working our Farragut, TN location when a sixty year old man walked in around 8 am. The gentleman threw his phone at me, walked out, then proceeded to start shadow boxing in the parking lot. He was yelling at me that all phones should be water-proof and that he was upset someone else had told him he needed to purchase a new phone. He wanted to “make someone pay”. After repeated attempts to try and calm him down his wife grabbed him and threw him in the car. Good thing, he looked like he would’ve given me a good whippin’!
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you? A guitar, a lifetime supply of matches, and a solar powered iPad.
Getting to Know Cellular Sales – Adam Mosley – East Tennessee
Posted on 11. May, 2011 by Scott Sutton in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Adam Mosley of the East Tennessee market of Cellular Sales sits down with the Cellular Sales Blog.
What is your title? I am the Recruiting Coordinator in East Tennessee. I also do sales as well.
How long have you worked with the company? I have been with Cellular Sales since August 2007.
What is it your role within Cellular Sales? As the Recruiting Coordinator in East Tennessee, I go out and actively recruit future sales reps. I look for the many qualities it takes to be in our company. I also source online websites (CareerBuilder/ Sales Gravy) and I am also part of BNI in East Tennessee.
Please tell me about your most rewarding experience. Probably the most rewarding experience was being appointed as the Recruiting Coordinator. It was great to know that the hard work I put in, not only mentoring new reps but all my efforts, was being rewarded. I knew that at that point I was going somewhere with the company. My overall goal of becoming a Recruiting Coordinator was able to be met through the hard work I gave the company.
What do you like best about working with Cellular Sales? The things that drew me to Cellular Sales were the flexibility and the entrepreneurial drive found in the other contractors. I‘ve always wanted to own my own my business and this company has provided me the ability to do so. It is also a great way to connect to the community. Working with Cellular Sales is an everlasting relationship with like-minded business professionals. It gives me great satisfaction to work with this company.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work with? I think Cellular Sales is special in that, unlike many large corporations, Cellular Sales is able to hold on to a family-like community. That’s what I truly love about it. It’s the feeling of family within the company. Today, in lots of companies, you can put in the extra hard work but still get paid exactly what the next guy earns, who hasn’t been working as hard as you have. With Cellular Sales I can control the success of my own business.
What’s different about it from other companies? By contracting with Cellular Sales you are able to control your own destiny. The flexibility lets you not only work on the sales floor but also work with charities and other organization within the community.
Are there any obstacles you face at work? Being a business owner you are always faced with obstacles. To be a successful business owner in this economy you have to be always thinking outside the box and Cellular Sales provides me that opportunity.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? I would have to say farming as a teenager.
Are you married? Yes, I am married.
Do you have kids? I have no kids but I have a Bullmastiff named Lucca.
What are your hobbies? Golfing, fishing and anything sports related.
Have you ever met anyone famous? If so, who? I have met Bill and Hillary Clinton. I have also met Peyton Manning.
Do you have a funny story about working at Cellular Sales? I was working on an account and had a customer call in that needed a phone delivered to him. While delivering the phone I found out he was a caretaker for an elderly man. Sometime between the caretaker answering the door and letting me in, I noticed that the elderly man had managed to disrobe all his clothes while the caretaker was talking to me. I immediately turned, walked out and finished talking to the caretaker on the front porch. That’s was most the uncomfortable situation I’ve ever been in.
Whit Pfohl – Getting to Know Cellular Sales – Texas
Posted on 02. May, 2011 by Scott Sutton in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Whit Pfohl of Cellular Sales North Texas sits down with the Cellular Sales Blog.
What is your title? Regional Director North Texas Market
How long have you worked for the company? Since January of 2003.
What is it your role within Cellular Sales? I manage the 14 locations that the North Texas area currently has. I also find new contractors to sell Verizon Wireless products and services to the North Texas and Oklahoma regions.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience, your proudest moment, since you joined the company. Through being a very successful sales rep in the Knoxville market, I was given the opportunity to become a Regional Director in the North Texas market in 2005.
What do you like best about working with Cellular Sales? It’s the people I work with! This company has the best reps and everyone is so great to work with.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? I have to say probably being a drummer for Gran Torino and traveling United States.
Are you married? Yes, to Stephanie Pfohl.
Do you have kids? Yes, one son named Bonham.
What do you enjoy doing with your family? Grilling out with friends and taking the dogs to the park with Bonham.
What are your hobbies? I enjoy running, playing drums and riding my motorcycle.
Have you ever met anyone famous? If so, who? Yes, Michael Irving and Emmitt Smith! I sold them some phones when they came in the store one day. I’ve also met a bunch of musicians from all the days of traveling with Gran Torino, but there are too many to list.
Getting to Know Cellular Sales – Mike Stephens – Alabama
Posted on 26. Apr, 2011 by Scott Sutton in Getting to Know Cellular Sales
Mike Stephens of Cellular Sales Alabama sits down with the Cellular Sales Blog.
What is your title? Regional Recruiter for the Alabama Market
How long have you worked with Cellular Sales? I started August ’08.
Just what is it you do here? I am responsible for finding new recruits, farming resumes and handling interviews. I am also responsible for growing our business by finding the best partners for the company.
Please tell me about your most rewarding or satisfying experience, your proudest moment, since you joined the company. I had a new referral for a partner who came to us with an incredible worth ethic and drive. I was able to see this partner come in, absorb everything and work his tail off. This partner has proven to me that perseverance, hard work, honesty and ethics pays off. I am proud to be part of being able to watch this partner grow and exceed. It is very rewarding seeing someone else do well.
What makes Cellular Sales such a special company to work with? I could go on for days. One of the first times I realized it was during my interview phase. Everything I was told during my interview sounded great. I was told that “my phone is always available to you” and “I am always here to for you”. Everyone is supportive of each other. This company is all about leadership that leads by serving! It is very unique in the world of business to have such great leadership. No one micro manages me on a day to day basis but helps me by continually coaching me forward. After a year, I was offered a position based on my skills and abilities. Everything I heard on the first interview was true and I personally seen that this works. It is terribly exciting to work for such a progressive and great company.
What do you enjoy most about working with Cellular Sales? I enjoy the opportunity to grow and be part of a family atmosphere. This environment and the culture, I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Are there any obstacles you face at work? I see reaching my goals as an obstacle. I am never going to get caught up because we are growing so much, and that is a great thing! If I ever reach my goals, we have stopped growing and I never want to see that. If we get complacent, that would be an obstacle. We can always be better. We are seeing great things in this market.
Before partnering with Cellular Sales, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had? The most unique position was when I spent 4 years as a counselor at the Alabama Youth Home for teens that were in the custody of the state. These young men came from horrible experiences at home. It was fun to work with and watch these young men transform to normal teens.
Are you married? I am married to incredibly beautiful wife.
Do you have kids? I have a 2 year old daughter and a son due any day.
What do you enjoy doing with your family? My wife and I are huge musical theater nerds. We enjoy hanging out with our daughter and watching her break out into songs from musicals. She’s just as much into musical theater as we are.
Do you have a funny story about working with Cellular Sales? There was a small Cellular Sales store in a strip mall that was upgraded to a new location. I forgot about the move completely. I drove up to old store and went in through the back only to find the store was completely stripped down. There weren’t even light fixtures. I began to wonder if I still I had a job and then remembered that the store had moved to a new location.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three things would you have to have with you? I would have to have my family, phone and a fishing rod and tackle.
And finally… Droid or iPhone? Droid
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