Women Who Sell With Antonia Nicholls

‘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, Antonia Nicholls, Business Development Representative at Opna shares her take.

What is your job title?

Business Development Representative.

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

I didn’t start off in sales or in sustainability, I also never considered sales as a career option until my mid-20s when I realised I wanted to pivot into climate. My background was in research and public health but after doing this for nearly 2 and a half years I realised I enjoyed speaking with

people and building relationships, coupled with my love for the sea and marine conservation I realised it was time for a change. I had no network so I started with this, I messaged people on LinkedIn, joined different climate communities and went to in-person networking/ events where I live. This helped me realise what my soft skills were as well as transferable skills, which ultimately led me to sales.

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

On occasion, I’ve felt I’ve not been taken as seriously being a woman. I have also noticed my tendency to be a bit more hesitant or quiet when actually I should speak up and share my ideas. I am working on being more assertive and confident but also playing to my strengths. I ask for feedback as this helps me focus on what I am doing well and where I can improve. I also am part of Women and Climate group which has been fantastic in connecting with women across climate in different roles, I’ve found mentors this way which has been really useful and uplifting.

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

I love figuring out how to relate to people and how I can help them solve a problem or pain point, it’s hard work but super rewarding when it clicks.

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

I can’t emphasise this enough: find a mentor and be a mentor. Also have multiple mentors! It’s really important to surround yourself with different people and perspectives, across a variety of fields and roles. And when you can - give back and provide mentorship.

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.