Women Who Sell With Anca Busoi

‘Women Who Sell' is all about showcasing women who excel in sales, thrive, and challenge stereotypes. We feature real perspectives on what it's like, the barriers, and the breakthroughs.

Here, Anca Busoi, former Business Unit Manager within Recruitment, shares her take.

What is your job title?

My last job title was Business Unit Manager. I am now on a self-discovery trip across Asia after ten years in commercial recruitment.

How did you get into sales, and what makes it the career of your choice?

I got into sales by accident, starting with door-to-door sales of Save the Children subscriptions. Imagine knocking on doors and explaining to people what is happening in Africa and what their contribution would mean for these kids.

I loved it, even though at the time, I didn't realize I was actually selling.

Six months later, I ended up in commercial recruitment. I was so excited as they told me I would find jobs for people. Instead, I ended up doing hardcore cold calling, which initially was brutal, but that didn’t stop me.

I had so much hunger and no shame—the recipe for being successful in sales. I wanted to quit many times at the beginning, but today, I’m grateful I didn't.

A career in sales gave me the opportunity to help my family, retire my mum, travel the world in style, and actually have an impact. I think in sales, you come for the money, but you stay for the impact you have on others and yourself.

Are there any barriers you have faced as a woman working in sales, and how have you overcome them?

I was lucky to land at a meritocratic company, but have you ever heard the term "boys' club"? Picture a place that blasts "Boys, Boys, Boys" on repeat!

So, it ended up with me becoming a boy.

I wanted to fit in! My feminine side, which can be so helpful in management and dealing with clients, was silenced; it was all about business. It took me a while to reconnect with my feminine side. That's when I became more empathetic, and creative, and found new solutions to clients' problems.

I did encounter many more barriers, especially from clients who refused to hire women in sales based on stereotypes and biases. I couldn't accept that, so I was always prepared with data and benefits to help women break them.

And I'm proud to say 50% of them hired women.

What do you like the most about being a woman in sales?

I must be honest; I do like the chase and the adrenaline that come with closing deals and business development. But ultimately, it comes down to making a difference.

I feel on top of the world when I help businesses and people grow.

What advice do you have for a woman wanting to get into sales and those wanting to advance?

For women wanting to get into sales:

Do it as soon as possible.

It's not going to be easy, but there is no job that will give you so much financial freedom.

After one year in sales, you will gain the only skills you need in life: communication, negotiation, resilience, and problem-solving.

For women trying to advance:

I can speak for hours, but I think these 2 points can give you everything you need.

1. Network

No matter if you want to grow in your company or change roles.

You must build relationships with people because you never know where your next opportunity will come from.

• Speak and support women in your company.

• Reach out to that person who does the role you aspire to.

• Write to the Hiring Manager of your dream company.

Build a tribe of women around you, and you will never struggle to grow or lack opportunities.

2. Ask for what you want and deserve

I see a lot of brilliant women waiting for that promotion, salary increase, or dream job. Your manager doesn't have a crystal ball, so if you want that management role or increase, speak to them and create a plan on how to get it.

So no matter what it is, just ask.

You are a woman in sales, remember that.

Remember that you've made a career out of turning a "no" into a "yes", and a "not now" into "how about today?"

If you would like to get involved with the blog series and share your story as a woman in the sales industry, we’d LOVE to hear from you. And head over to Women Who Sell’s LinkedIn for more content.