Emily Ernst

I attribute my success to a combination of perseverance, adaptability, and genuine connection. Over the past 20 years, I’ve learned that success isn’t about being the loudest in the room—it’s about listening deeply, understanding people’s needs, and providing solutions that truly make a difference. My introverted nature has been a strength, allowing me to build authentic relationships rather than transactional ones. I also credit my commitment to continuous learning—from earning my Healthcare Administration degree and CMAA certification to constantly growing at T-Mobile—as key to staying innovative and resilient. Most importantly, I attribute my success to the people around me: mentors who guided me, colleagues who collaborated with me, and clients who trusted me. Their support fuels my drive to exceed expectations and deliver lasting impact.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is: “Lead with authenticity, your strengths will shine when you stop trying to fit someone else’s mold.” Early in my career, I thought success meant being the loudest voice in the room. Over time, I learned that my introverted nature wasn’t a weakness but a strength. By leaning into listening, empathy, and building genuine relationships, I’ve been able to exceed goals and create meaningful impact. That advice reminded me that authenticity, paired with hard work and continuous learning, is what truly sets you apart.

My advice to young women entering this industry is to embrace your unique strengths and never feel pressured to fit into a single mold of what “success” looks like. In sales and business, there can be an expectation to be bold and outspoken, but you can thrive just as powerfully by leading with empathy, listening deeply, and building genuine relationships. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentors, and continuously invest in your learning. Every step you take builds your confidence and credibility. Most importantly, remember that your perspective and voice bring value. Stay authentic, stay curious, and know that you belong at the table.

One of the biggest challenges in my field is the rapid pace of change—technology, customer expectations, and business needs evolve almost daily. Clients aren’t just looking for a service; they want a trusted partner who can simplify complexity and provide solutions that are both innovative and practical. Staying ahead of these changes requires adaptability, continuous learning, and a deep understanding of each client’s unique goals. At the same time, that challenge creates incredible opportunity. With the expansion of 5G, cloud solutions, and digital transformation, businesses have more tools than ever to grow and thrive. For me, the opportunity lies in helping companies harness those tools strategically—removing barriers, streamlining processes, and creating value that lasts. It’s an exciting time to be in this field, because every conversation has the potential to spark innovation and impact.

The values most important to me are authenticity, integrity, and empathy. I believe in showing up as my genuine self, whether I’m working with clients, supporting colleagues, or spending time with family. Authenticity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of meaningful relationships. Integrity guides my decisions—I strive to do what’s right, even when it’s not the easiest path. And empathy allows me to truly listen, understand, and support others, which has been a driving force in both my sales success and my personal relationships. I also value continuous growth. Whether it’s learning new skills, earning my Healthcare Administration degree and CMAA certification, or finding better ways to serve clients, I believe growth keeps us adaptable and ready for new opportunities. These values together help me create impact while staying true to who I am.