WOMEN WHO SELL WITH NISSA NAIK
‘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 being someone that identifies as a woman in Sales, the barriers and the breakthroughs.
Here, Nissa Naik, Head Of Commercial at Great British Chefs shares her take.
What is your job title?
Head Of Commercial at Great British Chefs, the UK’s leading website for premium food content.
How did you get into sales and what makes it the career of your choice?
Like most people, I sort of got into sales by accident. I always knew I wanted to work in media but after a brief stint in more creative roles, I realised I wasn’t very good at writing. I quickly moved into PR, but realised that was basically sales without commission, and by that point, I had worked out that I quite liked earning money!
I ended up taking a job selling adverts by the cm squared in the classified section of a daily newspaper, and I seemed to be the only person who really enjoyed calling up complete strangers and convincing them to spend a couple of quid. From there my fate was sealed!
Are there any barriers you have faced as a woman working in sales, and how have you overcome them?
Where do I start...
There are so many barriers for women in sales, and brown women in sales, and brown women with young kids raising a family in sales! I often find myself in the minority. That said, the biggest barrier I have faced, and continue to face, is myself. The imposter syndrome, the worry you’re not good enough, you won't be taken seriously, you won't live up to expectations.
That said, at the end of the month, quarter, or year, the numbers always speak for themselves. Be the best and sell the most, no one can question you if you do that.
What do you like the most about being a woman in sales?
I like how black and white sales is, you either hit your target or you don’t, you know what is expected of you and you know what success looks like. You are totally in control.
What advice do you have for a woman wanting to get into sales and those wanting to advance?
Be brave, give it a go and don’t be afraid to pick up the phone!
