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I joined Salesforce one year ago, and to say that time has flown would be an understatement! I guess that’s to be expected when you’re part of such a fun, fast-paced, high-growth environment … especially when you’re just starting out in your career.
After completing my undergraduate program in 2013, I spent a few months testing the waters before landing my dream position as Corporate Sales Representative in Salesforce’s Toronto office. Although I may still be in the early stages of my career, I’ve already learned a lot of valuable lessons.
As Salesforce’s Woman of the Month, I’m excited to share the top five things I learned from starting my career at one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies. No matter what field you’re in, I hope you can take something away from my experience.
I am so fortunate to work alongside smart people who inspire me, challenge me, and constantly teach me new things. Having a great network of colleagues can function as a strong support system. Join groups, find a mentor, seek out a Lean In circle, and get involved every way you can. The more you build close connections with people you admire or trust, the more successful you will be.
You will always have good days and bad days, but it’s important to identify something every day that you see as a win. A win can be anything from closing a big deal to grabbing coffee with a colleague. Focusing on the positives will help you stay confident, balanced, and motivated … plus, it will keep you in good spirits!
I once heard the expression “Be a builder, not a climber,” and it really resonated with me. Since then, I’ve been passionate about building success with my team, rather than trying to climb up the ladder alone. If you are kind and genuinely willing to help those around you, you will help create a satisfying and successful work environment for everyone. Strive to be the person that your coworkers would love to work with again and again.
It’s normal to want to make a good impression, especially as you’re starting out, but a fear of failure can stand in the way of success. When I started at Salesforce, I had the opportunity to lead a special training session, but hesitated because I doubted my abilities – and instantly regretted it. Ever since, I have taken on intimidating projects no matter what. The more you put yourself out there and stretch your skills, the more respect you’ll gain from those around you … and the more opportunities will come your way.
The most important thing I have learned in my time at Salesforce has been to trust myself. Initially I was unsure about my abilities as a leader, but the more opportunities I had to use my voice and share my ideas, the more I began to believe in my own skills and strengths. As you move through your career, make yourself heard, have full faith in your abilities, and be your own biggest champion!
The Salesforce Woman of the Month campaign turns the spotlight on the amazing women who help make Salesforce one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies (according to Forbes) and one of Fortune Magazine’s Best Companies to Work For. Honorees are nominated by fellow employees and selected by a dedicated committee that works to ensure a variety of roles and regions are honored.
To hear more from Victoria, make sure to connect with her on LinkedIn. And stay tuned for more career tips and tools for success from our next Salesforce Woman of the Month, coming your way in January.
Ready to find your #dreamjob at Salesforce? Visit salesforce.com/careers.
