Name and how long you have been in the industry
April Lebo and I have been in the industry almost 12 fantastic years.
Short background bio – How did you get into the industry? Anything that drew you in?
I started my career in pharmaceutical sales back in the 90’s. I fell in love with the Healthcare industry and knew I wanted to continue to work in some capacity in the medical field. A small local company put out an ad for a Global Medical Device Sales Rep and I was instantly intrigued. It was a huge change going from working for one of the largest companies in the world to being employee number 10, but I was ready for a new challenge and to see if I could find a place where I could truly make an impact. Working for a company who valued service and the importance of customer relationships is what ultimately lead me to joining this industry.
What milestones or contributing factors helped elevate you to where you are today?
In the beginning I was blessed to work for some amazing people who encouraged me to be… me! I never felt stifled or held back on expressing my thoughts and ideas and was given the ability to try new things to see what would ultimately lead to success. That support in the beginning has helped encourage me to never give up and power through when I have felt stuck. Our industry is also fantastic at enabling people to make connections externally who have become mentors and helped guide me in my career. I believe that being true to my values, learning to speak up for myself, always being the hardest working person in the room and never wavering from my goals has led me to where I am today.
What roadblocks did you have to overcome?
I think the biggest roadblocks I have faced over the years have been with myself. Questioning my abilities, not feeling “good enough”, and at times, wanting to throw in the towel. But then I remember that I love what I do, and I am really damn good at it! LOL. When moments of self-doubt start to creep in, I take time to reflect on my “Why.” The hard work I have put in over the years, being able to coach and mentor, seeing the good we are doing for hospitals and patients, knowing I, in some small way can make a difference in someone’s life by helping them achieve their goals helps remind me of my purpose. I have learned that I can be my biggest roadblock, but I also have the ability to be my biggest cheerleader!
What do you feel makes a great leader in this industry?
The best leaders I have met in this industry are the ones who are people focused, internally on the employees’ well-being and individual success, but also on the customers, patients, and everyone they encounter. These leaders are seen as coaches, mentors, have a strong sense of compassion and truly listen to those around them. To me a great leader is someone you WANT to work for, not someone you HAVE to work for.
What advice to you have for the other women in HTM?
My best advice would be to find your confidence. Be proud of who you are and what you bring to the table. Do not be afraid to advocate for yourself, especially if you have goals you are trying to achieve. Sometimes we must find our voice and use it because it is easy to be spoken over or not heard at all. When you combine effort with confidence, you become unstoppable!