Her Story
About Abygayle
I started off working in jewelry as a regular part-time seasonal sales associate when I was just coming into the career force. I had always loved gemstones so that is where I began. After the holiday season I got promoted very quickly to full-time and then to management. I further educated myself in the gem world, diamonds and jewelry. From there my pathway led me into soft apparel in high-volume retail because I wanted to advance my career. Then I was looking for a different change in pace which led me to e-comm at Goodwill on ShopGoodwill where I manage sourcing oddities and knickknacks for collectors and resellers. My main focus is making the most to contribute back to Goodwill's mission of educating and helping the public. I am also an entrepreneur owning a gourmet baking business named Munster after my black cat who inspires me to give back to animal shelters and raise awareness for black cats.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Abygayle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would say a long line of womenhood. I come from a really long line of single moms and single parents overall but mainly just hard-working women and that's kind of where I pay my contribute to.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One step at a time, one day at a time. You've got to look at yourself in the mirror and say did I do everything in my power to make this team member as successful as possible. Just kind of like a self-reflection.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself when no one else would. When you have a moment to be proud scream it to the loudest hilltop there is. Surround yourself with better people than you are so you continuously are growing. If you're the best in the room that means you need to find another group to be in because you've outgrown them.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
It's just trusting in yourself both professionally and in my business. Trusting in your decisions especially in management. A lot of times folks will underestimate what they're capable of or overthink having those kind of hard decisions and conversations.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Holding myself accountable so admit when I'm wrong or if there's something that I need to improve on. Holding integrity is a big one for me. Being able to connect with the community on the deepest most vulnerable level. Woman empowerment. It's really cool to see businesswomen in the workforce.
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