Meet a Member: Tasha Richards

Tasha Richards is a high-energy Consultant with 15+ years of proven success in software technology and telecom industries. Her values of integrity, hard work, and effective communication have allowed Tasha to achieve both personal & career growth while driving value with my partners and customers.

Tell us about your education and background

In High School, I took a Marketing class, and although I wasn't fond of the teacher, I did fall in love with the concepts of Marketing and knew right from the jump, that I wanted to work in a field that allowed me to learn more about people and then communicate value back to them. Little did I know that I would end up having a career in sales and running multiple businesses.

What was your first job?

I come from an entrepreneur family so I believe I was always working since I could speak (lol). But, my first W-2 "real" job was at Claire's Boutique in the mall. I was so excited to get a call from them because I had put in an application to work there when I was 15 and it took over 6 months for them to call me back once I was 16. I learned so much about customer service, inventory, money management, and the responsibility of opening/closing a store. The bonus was that the Fashionista in me enjoyed the perks of getting discounts on hair accessories and jewelry. To this day, I have asked my kids that when they get a job to work somewhere that excites them and that they could benefit from; even if it is discounted off $2 earrings.

Describe your most pivotal career experience

When I was 18 I worked as the executive assistant to the VP of Sales for a software company. I loved the company and enjoyed my role. The VP of Sales turned to me one day and told me he wanted me to become a sales rep; I said no; even if I didn't have much of a choice. He really needed to train someone and he admired my work acumen and told me I would be great. He said, "just be you...people like you". I was mortified and NEVER wanted to be in sales. But I took on the challenge and learned that I didn't need to "sale" anyone; but that I just needed to get to know people/businesses and then provide value to them in return. Something that I always loved to do. It has now been 22 years in sales.

Who is/was your mentor and what was the most important lesson you learned from them?

I am proud to say that I am very close to pretty much every manager that I have ever had in my career. Each one has been so pivotal to my growth. A few of them stand out though, and I would say that they valued having a diverse team and would hire for passion and talent not necessarily what school you came from or what side of the block. They essentially created an A-Team of bad-add sales executives.

If you were/are a mentor in your field, what advice would you give to younger colleagues?

Be You. Do you. Trust your instincts.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I'm proud of my longevity. Sales is not for the faint of heart. But I can seriously say that I have enjoyed every minute, and because of that perspective, I have had a lot of success and have met some amazing friends and mentors. And if/when I get to the point of not enjoying what I do, I'll find ways to spark it again.

To network with Tasha, be sure to connect with her on LinkedIn.