Women Who Sell With Nicola Plenderleith
‘Women Who Sell’ is all about showcasing women who sell, and are thriving and challenging stereotypes. We feature real perspectives of what it’s like, the barriers and the breakthroughs.
Here, Nicola Plenderleith, Head of Talent Acquisition at Leyton shares her take.
What is your job title?
Head of Talent Acquisition.
How did you get into sales and what makes it the career of your choice?
My job title now doesn’t immediately shout ‘sales’ but I started out 20-something years ago in agency recruitment and remained in that space for over 15 years.
When I started I didn’t even realise what I was doing could be classified as a sales job but I got such enjoyment of winning new business and then delivering against the odds that I kept doing it.
The opportunity to be in control of my earnings, to be recognised as a top performer always kept me motivated and that made it such a rewarding career for me. The skill of being able to build relationships, identify new prospects and close business never leaves you.
Are there any barriers you have faced as a woman working in sales, and how have you overcome them?
Too many to list them all!
I remember when I was pregnant with my oldest son my boss at the time was furious when I told her and told me it was terrible timing for the business. Imagine those words coming from another woman! Both times I went on maternity I had to hand over my clients, on the promise they would be returned to me when I returned to work, but they never were. I always had to start from scratch.
But those experiences made me more resilient and there is nothing better than over-achieving on someone who has inherited successful clients without having to do the leg work. I may be a wee bit competitive!
What do you like the most about being a woman in sales?
I am always grateful for my sales career. It helped me discover what my passions are and where my strengths lie. It has allowed me to work all over the world and gave me opportunities I may not have otherwise had. Yes, it can be challenging, but women are naturally so well equipped to deal with a sales career.
Our inherent strength as women makes us incredible salespeople.
What advice do you have for a woman wanting to get into sales and those wanting to advance?
For those looking to enter a sales role, I would say grab every opportunity with both hands. Ask questions, watch the most successful people in your business and emulate them. But never compromise your integrity and have confidence that who you are makes you unique – that alone will help you sustain a sales career.
For those wanting to advance, it’s sad to say but we need to shout louder. Women are often overlooked for promotion so we need to be able to demonstrate our abilities more than our male colleagues. Never assume someone sees your value – make them see it. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want – your colleagues aren’t.
Lastly – if you ever find yourself in an environment where you are fighting a losing battle, get out. There are lots of quality organisations out there who will support your growth and development. Don’t stay somewhere you are not valued. Be loyal to yourself, above all else.
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.
