Her Story
About Teresa
I've been in my field for over 30 years, and honestly, it was my mother who inspired me to get into this work. She was really professional when she came into doing sales and marketing, and she was the one who taught me a lot of my initial skills. Today, I am an Account Executive for a woman-owned company called Blaisdells Business Products, where I manage over 250 accounts along with the help of my team. We make sure that our clients get next-day deliveries, we help them with projects, ideas to make their workspace inviting to their employees and guests. From everyday supplies to janitorial, break room, coffee services, paper, toner, PPE and more we are a full service outfit. help. My job is not a sales rep but more of a consultant making sure my partners have everything they need to run a successful business. Of course this is tied to revenue goals, which comes with its own unique set of challenges, but I wouldnt still be in this business if it didnt constantly meet and beat expectations. I also run a construction business with my husband, which we've been doing since we were married 30 years ago. I am able to use my skills in preparing bids and billing our customers, take care of accounting and a lot more. My typical day is very, very busy dealing with customers, dealing with projects, dealing with management - it's just non-stop go. There is constant change in both of my rolls, however as I have continued to grow I have learned that rolling with the punches is a talent that you must possess. It can be hard to master, but once you do you will enjoy your job and it becomes a joy vs just another workday.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Teresa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to not having a lot of fear to ask the right questions. I think that's just about how it works. I've learned throughout my career that not every solution is your solution - sometimes valuable input is needed to get to the bottom line of what you're doing. Being open-minded has been crucial for me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I would give, and what I tell anybody that's new, is to be open-minded. Not every solution is your solution. Sometimes valuable input is needed to get to the bottom line of what you're doing. You have to be willing to roll with the punches, because if you can't roll with the punches, you won't succeed in this field.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't give up. Find a mentor someone in the field you are looking into or that you are in. Ask for weekly or monthly meetings to have a talk about your challenges and share ideas. In my career I have had many other women in my field that have taken me under their wing and taught me what it takes to be successful. I still have a mentor today as even with my experience I still have things to learn.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my role is that it is a constant change, so you have to roll with the punches. There is something new almost daily but with an open mind and a willingness to learn and see other perspectives success comes with that.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In work, it has to be honesty and integrity. While for the most part the solutions I provide to my customers/partners are what are right for them, if what I offer doesnt fit the bill I am always open and honest about that and that is why customers always come back and I expect the same in return. Personally I value time with my family, my adult children and my grandson and others that I have been blessed with. Family is paramount.
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