Name and how long you have been in the industry
Hey there, I’m Adrianna “Adri”, and started in the industry in 2008.
Fun fact, I met my husband when I started in this field, and here we are 16-years later.
Short background bio – How did you get into the industry? Anything that drew you in?
I was working at a temp agency and applying for full times jobs like crazy. I was selling HATS to large retail stores via call center. I applied to a local ultrasound company for a sales coordinator position. I had zero medical / HTM knowledge but loved sales and was eager to earn my way to sales position.
What milestones or contributing factors helped elevate you to where you are today?
Again, I started at an entry level position, and worked hard to learn anything and everything I could in our industry. I quickly transitioned from a Sales Coordinator to an Account Manager. I had amazing mentors in-house who would take me on ride-a longs (Beth Morrison) and helped build my confidence. I then started attending CMIA/trade shows and began my social outreach. I transitioned into an Inside Sales manager for approximately 8-years which taught me dedication, perseverance, and goal setting. I now had a team to support, as well as a management team relying on me to lead with excellence. 14 years into my career, I was offered an opportunity I couldn’t resist, which is my current role of Director of Inside Sales.
What roadblocks did you have to overcome?
When I started in 2008 this was a predominantly male industry. I would sit at round tables, attend shows, and watch all the nicely dressed, educated, and respected men speak. I was always in the background, listening and learning but felt underserved and underdressed/educated to speak up. A lot has changed in the HTM community over the years and after I had enough courage to start engaging in conversations, I realized those “nicely dressed men” were advocates and amazing mentors who I now call friends. I understand now that people listen when you have courage, passion and speak the truth. This mental understanding has given me the tools to be a fearless leader, regardless of who’s in the room.
What do you feel makes a great leader in this industry?
I’ve built my reputation on strong values, focusing on kindness, honesty and supporting others. Some of my closest friends are industry competitors, who work with me, verse against me to ensure HTM customers always have a trusted contact. Helping others “win”, gives me a sense of pride. Favorite quote: “We rise by lifting others”.
What advice to you have for the other women in HTM?
Follow your dreams, take the leap of faith, ask for forgiveness, and be the women you’d want to follow. Use every obstacle as a learning experience.
Thanks for reading, my goal is that it inspired you to tackle your dreams!
~Adri
WIL Secretary