Moving from technical roles into sales brought unexpected challenges, but one person’s kindness made all the difference.
Here’s a story about how a single encounter changed my entire career trajectory.
Table of Contents
The Reality
When I first moved from technical roles into sales, I wasn’t prepared for the rejection.
The transition was harder than I expected. People took the free lunches, interrupted my presentations, and walked out halfway through.
After experiencing this repeatedly, I started bracing for condescension before every meeting.
The Change
Everything shifted when I met this woman. This woman was a librarian at a major LA architecture firm.
Unlike everyone else, she actually listened to what I had to say. She connected me with others in her network. Most importantly, she welcomed me in a space where I’d felt completely invisible.
She probably has no idea how much it meant to me, but her kindness changed everything. It gave me the confidence to keep going when I was ready to give up.
The Discovery
That experience opened my eyes to something important.
Now I know, this industry is filled with kind folks willing to lend a hand if you look for them. I try to be one of them and pay it forward.
Conclusion
The memory of that encounter has stayed with me.
Years later, I still carry that moment with me as a reminder that one person’s kindness can change someone’s whole trajectory.
Biggest takeaway?
One person’s simple act of kindness can completely shift someone’s career path. When you’re facing rejection and ready to give up, finding someone who listens and connects you with others can change everything.
This experience shows that even in challenging industries, there are people willing to help if you look for them. The key is recognizing these moments and paying that kindness forward to others who might be struggling.
What’s one small act of kindness that shifted your path?
