Katrese Roberson

I attribute my success entirely to my faith. As a single mother, I had my daughter during my first year of college and made the difficult decision to pause my education to raise her. I am a self-made woman with no college degree, relying on perseverance, determination, and faith to navigate life’s challenges. I never married; my focus has always been on raising my daughter, with God as my constant partner and guide.

Growing up in a difficult environment—with an alcoholic household and experiences of violence—I learned early on to hold tightly to my faith. It became the foundation that carried me through the toughest moments. I believe that faith grows strongest not in comfort, but in times of struggle. Repeatedly seeing God’s guidance during hardship strengthened my resilience and shaped the values I live by today.

Throughout my life and career, I have navigated spaces traditionally dominated by men, which required strength, independence, and adaptability. Maintaining a survivor mindset has been crucial: when circumstances shift, I quickly assess and adapt to meet new demands. For example, during COVID-19, when many slowed down, I pushed forward, identifying changes in the industry and creating strategies to remain successful. Faith and resilience have been the guiding forces behind my journey and achievements.

The best career advice I’ve received comes from experience and working closely with others in challenging environments. Leading teams and improving performance taught me how to coach, empower, and grow alongside others. Faith and personal growth have guided my decisions and continue to shape my leadership style.

For young women entering sales, I would say that integrity is your most valuable asset—it’s your calling card and the path that carries you forward. For me, integrity comes from my faith and the way I treat others, and it shapes every interaction and decision.

Sales is a tough field with constant rejection, and it can be mentally challenging. I’ve learned to reframe it: not every “no” is personal. Every interaction is about finding your people—the clients, colleagues, and partners who align with your values. Those who don’t fit? You let it roll off your shoulders and keep moving forward. Staying true to yourself and focused on your people will guide you through the toughest days.

Right now, one of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating economic shifts, evolving hiring expectations, and overall market uncertainty. At the same time, these challenges create opportunities for those who remain adaptable, focus on building strong relationships, and stay solutions-oriented.

I also see tremendous opportunity in supporting local communities—connecting people to meaningful work and helping businesses access the talent they need to grow. In my experience, professionals who lead with integrity, consistency, and clear communication are the ones who continue to stand out, even during challenging cycles.

The values that guide me are faith, integrity, and equality. I believe everyone deserves to be heard, and when people feel valued, teams become stronger and more committed. Integrity shapes how I treat others and build trust, while adaptability allows me to lead effectively in diverse environments—whether navigating male-dominated spaces or fostering collaboration with women.