"Whether you live in Africa or North America, when you say you work for 3M, it sparks interest." Tony Business Analyst Consumer and Office Business 3Mer Since 2001, Joined 3M Canada in 2006

From One 3M to Another

When I started in sales at 3M in Nairobi, I knew by the friendly office environment, it was a company I could devote myself to wherever I lived. Today, having the benefit of seeing 3M from the Canadian angle as well, I appreciate it even more. 3M hires knowledgeable people who are willing to share what they know. You can walk into anyone’s office, regardless of their rank, and talk about anything including work, aspirations, concerns, hobbies and family. I can attest that, whether you live in Africa or North America, when you say you work for 3M, it sparks interest; people want to learn more about what you do. That’s something I’m proud to be a part of.

A Chance Meeting

Long before I moved to Canada, I learned I’d have to resign in Africa and re-apply for a position when I arrived. With that in mind, I kept an eye open for opportunities to improve the possibility of being hired abroad. I am proof that networking opens doors that would otherwise seem shut. This was the case the day I found myself taking an Australian 3Mer to visit my customers in Nairobi. Later, this man became president of the Canadian subsidiary and remembered me when I was looking for a job. I’m pretty sure our meeting years before didn’t hurt my chances. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of getting involved and meeting people.

Transitioned with Ease

As a fairly new Canadian, I am surprised at how much effort 3Mers put into making me feel welcome. The office environment is quite different and much larger here plus I work in an entirely new role. Fortunately, people go out of their way to help me and are easily accessible. A few weeks after my start date, a small group of new hires were assigned a mentor and met every two months to discuss challenges, company policies and ask any questions about London which was very helpful. Another aspect that made my transition easier was my employers’ trust in my abilities. I presented to senior managers within my first few weeks here. I was sort of thrown in the deep end, but I now have the confidence to present at any time.

Life in Canada

Moving to London, was one of the best choices I made for my family. We were coming from a busy city and London offered serenity and a sense of community. Plus being at such a diverse company in a new country is fantastic. Since April 2007, what started as a lunchroom group, has become an inclusive team that celebrates 3Mers’ lives before their move to Canada, the Multicultural Diversity Network. We meet once a month and launched an annual potluck event where we invite other 3Mers to bring in and share international dishes. From barbecues to sports teams, there are so many ways to get involved at 3M - these are some of the things that helped me transition into life in Canada quickly.

"3M offers a great balance between engaging work opportunities and a collaborative working environment." Martha Manager Corporate Marketing 3Mer Since 2004

A Caring, Reputable Company

When I moved from Toronto four years ago, I was pleased to find 3M’s Canadian headquarters located here in London, Ontario. 3M has an outstanding corporate reputation and is recognized as a credible, trusted employer in the community. As a relatively new employee to the company, I’ve found the corporate culture at 3M to be supportive and friendly, and I appreciate how the company celebrates its accomplishments. 3M offers a great balance between engaging work opportunities and a collaborative working environment which makes working here both challenging and enjoyable.

Breadth of Opportunity

Geographical and market diversity are key differentiators of 3M from other London-based companies. It’s encouraging to know the success of 3M in Canada is shared worldwide should I ever want to pursue an international assignment. Also, unlike most companies which encourage specialized positions, marketing at 3M involves the whole spectrum of managing a product’s life cycle from establishing the marketing strategy, to product development work with the lab to collaborating directly with customers. This approach builds valuable work experience across multiple functions, continues to build transferable skill sets and provides important leadership opportunities to direct the future success of product categories and the business.

Shared Experience, Shared Knowledge

As a member of 3M’s Marketing Council, an internal marketing community, I have the opportunity to meet and collaborate with other marketers from across the company representing multiple business divisions. The marketing council meets monthly and is a great forum to discuss ideas, learn about emerging marketing tactics, and share best practices. With over 100 marketers at 3M Canada, it’s a real benefit to be part of such a diverse and talented group of peers.

Personal Development Valued

On a personal note, one of the highlights of my career at 3M thus far is the commitment and support the company has demonstrated for me to pursue an executive MBA while balancing a full work load. 3M’s support in this area is unprecedented from other companies I’ve worked for and the company truly embraces the mutual benefits continuing education offers both today and in the future. For example, 3M offers opportunities to integrate work and school assignments to the mutual benefit of both the company and my program studies. Pursuing my MBA, along with various internal courses and a mentorship program, enables me to stay current with emerging trends in business and leadership development.

"3M is a fantastic place to work and it certainly lives up to my expectations of an employer." Leslie Supervisor Customer Service 3Mer since 1999

3M Exceeds Expectations

When I looked for employment after graduation and saw an opportunity for a position at 3M, I jumped at the chance. 3M is a fantastic place to work and it certainly lives up to my expectations of an employer, in fact, I might even be so bold as to say it goes well beyond them. One of my very favourite things about 3M is I don’t have to change who I am to work here. From the very beginning, I found the people at 3M welcoming and accepting, making my move to London an easy transition. I appreciate the opportunities for career change here in addition to the perks associated with working for 3M such as a great benefits package and discount offers that are available.

Customer Service Role

I began my 3M career following the amalgamation of customer service in London covering abrasives for western Canada. Following that, I tried my hand as a national account analyst, customer service team leader and now supervisor. Primarily, I work on internal projects, removing obstacles for people in my group, and working with customers, sales representatives or businesses to resolve issues. There is so much variety working with different functional groups from credit and transportation to customs and technical service - an opportunity few other roles enjoy. I haven’t seen the need to move out of my department since every day brings new challenges, and I really like the people I work with and enjoy the customers.

The People Make the Company

Every day in customer service is an adventure with new problems to solve and new opportunities to explore with people in person, on the phone and online. Although it’s a challenging department, but I’d like to think we’re the envy of the rest of 3M. We work hard, but in the middle of it, we make time to enjoy ourselves. In October, we have customer service week with free lunches typically supplied by the businesses we support and themed activities daily. We also try to keep things light with activities and a peer recognition from our rewards and recognition team.

Getting Involved

There are so many ways to get involved in the life at 3M which greatly appeals to me. I join in on everything I can manage, from sports teams to volunteering all endorsed by the company. When I see an opportunity to make a difference, there is always a means to help facilitate change. As a member of the 3M Club, I organize various social gatherings and encourage everyone to get involved. It’s clear 3M truly values its employees by allowing me to spend a portion of my time helping plan events for its employees and their families. This mentality extends beyond the building into the community where I help various organizations. I’m lucky to work for a company that not only encourages strong community values, but contributes to them as well.

"At 3M, I’ve had the opportunity to explore four significantly different career paths." Dave Executive Director Corporate Services 3Mer since 1984

Working with Pride

Every day is a different experience with the diverse products and people that encompass 3M Canada; it’s a great place to work. I applied after graduating from university thinking I’d like to work at one of London, Ontario’s largest and most stable employers and I haven’t had to look elsewhere since. I’ve witnessed tremendous change here, particularly in the way there is more engagement between the executives and the employees. I’m proud to represent 3M in the community and support employees at the executive level as a member of the leadership team.

Not One Career, But Four

At 3M, I’ve had the opportunity to explore four significantly different career paths. When I think back to my first day as a cycle counter in the London, Ontario manufacturing facility, I had no idea I would not only become a plant supervisor, but also try out Human Resources, Six Sigma Black Belt and now an executive position. Since I was willing to work with anyone in a diverse environment, I learned tolerance, understanding and patience which allowed me to transition well into other roles with more responsibility. With 3M’s tuition reimbursement program, I had the formal education required to qualify for each position, and took various informal internal courses to gain tools and tactics specific to the company.

From Back Line to Front Line

When I moved to manager of customer service, it was quite a change after 20 years in the manufacturing environment. Essentially, I went from making the products in a plant, to managing the people who support the products in the office. Managing a customer-facing staff group showed me 3M from an entirely new angle. I got to know the sales force, meet people in various branches, and learn more about people and products than in other 3M departments. Just as my experiences expanded, so did my responsibility. Eventually I managed media arts and internal facilities. Fortunately, I built upon my skills in each career and applied them to new roles which made each move easier.

Be Known and Know Others

With the variety of positions I’ve held, I’ve learned a thing or two about success. If you want to progress your career, actively develop your listening skills and take the time to meet and talk to people face-to-face. More importantly, don’t fall into the email trap. Although it is a quick way to communicate, make a conscious effort to meet with people in person or on the phone wherever possible. If you choose to use email, and there’s any doubt in your mind, use the 24 hour rule on your responses. Above all, stay involved. It’s important to be visible and active. Some of the ways I get involved include being the Executive Sponsor of the 3M Club, the DisAbility Advisory Network and the annual Awards Gala.

"Canada has a leading development team within 3M and the combined domestic and international opportunities in the IT department excite me." Mohammed Senior Programmer Analyst Information Technology (IT) 3Mer since 2002

Sculpt Your Future at 3M

We’re all artists at heart, and here at 3M you have the ability to sculpt and shape your future. Whether you want to be involved with technology, sales, marketing or simply want to take on a new challenge or opportunity, you can here. I may not have leveraged this enough yet, but it’s available when I’m ready. This is a company where you can really focus on your long-term career goals. Everything I want can be accomplished here.

IT is for Me

Since starting at 3M, my role has evolved greatly. I began developing code, but am now involved with project management. For me, IT involves analyzing issues and trying to come up with solutions using various facets of problem solving and prototyping new technologies. What’s great is I get to see the breadth of the company. I need to learn everything about a business in order to deliver solutions my clients want. It’s rewarding to know each project I complete actually contributes to 3M’s bottom line.

Gaining a Global Perspective

Canada has a leading development team within 3M and the combined domestic and international opportunities in the IT department excite me. I work on applications for 3M Canada and subsidiaries worldwide. This gives me the chance to exchange knowledge and ideas with people in other countries and build an international network of peers. Working in this environment, I’ve learned about different customs and cultures, but also different regulations and business styles. When we work through challenges together, and overcome language and geographical barriers, it’s truly satisfying.

Invest in Your Future

In IT, we constantly evaluate new technologies, because we need to take our customers wherever they might need to go tomorrow. Since technology changes rapidly, I need the education and skills necessary to adapt. While at 3M, I've taken numerous internal training courses, Six Sigma training and earned my Project Management Professional (PMP) credentials. Any time I've had an interest in learning a new technology or skill to progress my proficiency on the job, my managers have supported me and encouraged me to go to technical conferences and other courses. Recently, I began working on an MBA to broaden my business skills. 3M looks favourably on people who care about their careers and their futures.

"Even after 20 years, my confidence in the company, and the wonderful new talents it hires, grows daily. Kevin Operations Leader Brockville, Ontario Tape Plant 3Mer since 1986

The Company of Choice

After working for 10 years in the Alberta oil fields, I wanted to pursue a career with a strong, well-organized, strategic company. For me, 3M was the company of choice. I found the reputation, global nature and diversity of products manufactured all very attractive. Although I came to the business interested in a specific job, I also knew 3M tended to promote from within and further opportunities would present themselves. Even after 20 years, my confidence in the company, and the wonderful new talents it hires, grows daily. 3M is a company I trust will be consistent and successful.

Big Company, Small Town

Even though I didn’t originally see myself living in a small town in Ontario, being situated in eastern Ontario, Perth and Brockville both offer a small town feel and is less than hour away from ski hills and big city attractions in Ottawa. There’s an overwhelming sense of community here, which is a huge perk. Just like a smaller community, the people make things easy at 3M. It’s reassuring when you wake up each morning knowing you work for a great company with excellent people who all want to do a great job and succeed.

Plant Life

Wherever my career goes, it will be closely linked with manufacturing. When I started at the Perth facility, I knew there would be opportunities but really had no idea of the true breadth and scope of 3M’s capabilities. I wanted to learn the business inside and out. I appreciate that every one of us in manufacturing has different jobs, from plant logistics and production operators to technicians and engineers, but we all contribute to the same outcome in important ways. We’re all very determined, and continually interact to understand issues to mutually come up with decisions. As long as you are open-minded and willing to rapidly evolve, you’ll enjoy a job here.

Challenging Environment

The manufacturing world is dynamic and evolves quickly. We need to be efficient because the Brockville, Ontario plant supplies tapes worldwide, but competes in a global market that is not what it was 20, 10 or even five years ago. We’re using machines and technology I wouldn’t have dreamt up when I started. Change is always interesting, challenging and always presents opportunities ahead of you. One of the greatest things about problem solving at 3M is its diverse employees. Everyone brings different perspectives, backgrounds, skills, experiences and with all the right input, we end up doing the right thing. That’s pretty neat for such a huge organization.

"Working in the lab fills my appetite for knowledge and working with 3M’s global network of scientists, I have the best resources to learn from." Doug Technical Specialist London, Ontario Laboratory 3Mer since 1997

A Company of Knowledge and Acceptance

As a scientist, 3M's culture of innovation attracted me. Typically, science is thought of as being abstract and theoretical, but it energized me to take a position where my research and development contributed to new products people could buy. A key 3M advantage is the wealth of information the company offers employees to work with and use to build a solid scientific career. Also, there is a certain pride when you're associated with 3M because of its strong presence in the global business community, and its power brands like Scotch and Post-it. Above all, 3M is a company of acceptance; there is no barrier between the company and its employees. I can't imagine working elsewhere.

Working in the Lab

I've been in the lab since I started at 3M beginning as a senior chemist in research and development with a niche set of science skills. Since then, I've broadened my knowledge from polymers, to adhesives/tapes and even gained expertise in cleaning microbiology and infection control. In my analytical job position here at 3M Canada, I did a lot like detective work; I supported over 50,000 products and used science to uncover the mystery behind product failures and discover how things are constructed. I also analyzed 3M's 40 core technologies to understand how they exist and co-blend to make products. Working in the lab fills my appetite for knowledge and working with 3M's global network of scientists, I have the best resources to learn from. In this particular job, everyday is different in the lab.

Customer-Focused Research

In my current role as a technical specialist, I support a wide range of products in markets including health care, education, commercial buildings and food service. I meet customers face-to-face to understand their pain points and return to the lab to find solutions. For instance, when I work with infection prevention or environmental services, a customer may need to clean a hospital thoroughly. I advise the customer based on my product knowledge of the suggested 3M products. I also address quality concerns, explain how products work and answer any questions customers have. My position involves ensuring 3M's products comply with Canadian regulations as well. Sometimes, my job involves taking note of things 3M doesn't have, which could lead to creating a new product for future applications.

Experience and Insight

If you're interested in being a technical specialist, it's important to be self-motivated and independently resourceful because no one will hold you by the hand. Before applying for a job, build your skills with formal education like a graduate degree and practical experience. In my experience, it's not what you study that is as important as the valuable research and analytical skills you gain while learning. It's also reassuring to know at 3M, you're not locked into one career path. If you want to begin in the lab, and move into human resources or manufacturing, you can control that by taking any additional training required. You can also evolve your career as I did. Every role I've held at 3M exposed me to different aspects of the company and prepared me for the next stage in my career. The more flexible you are with your future, the more you'll get out of working here.

"Knowing the process I went through to work here, and the experience I've had with 3M, I'm confident I'm working with the best people in the industry." Janette Industrial & Transportation Technical Lab Manager London, Ontario 3Mer since 1994

Rigorous Requirements, Liberal Environment

3M is the kind of place any engineer dreams of working not only because it is well-known and admired, but also for its wide offering of products, from medical tape to sandpaper. Knowing the process I went through to work here, beginning with a seven-person interview including the vice president of manufacturing, and the experience I've had with 3M, I'm confident I'm working with the best people in the industry. I've had great mentors and managers who value my life outside of 3M, as much as they value my work within 3M. They gave me the freedom to be a mom and an employee. With the annual kids' holiday party, athletic activities and 3M Club member discounts, the perks are as wonderful as the job.

Career Diversity

When I made the move to 3M, I intended to change companies every three years to keep my life interesting, my mind fresh and to take on increasing responsibility. Now, 14 years later, I've been proactive in pursuing a variety of career paths and still haven't needed to look beyond 3M. I've seen the products from various perspectives beginning as a manufacturing engineer, a maintenance supervisor, human resources manager for the plant and then a product engineering and quality manager in the lab. Now I’m the industrial and transportation technical lab manager. Although I embrace change and have held a wide variety of positions at 3M, my philosophy is to contribute the best I can to the role I'm in before moving on.

Respectful Workplace

One of the great things about 3M is the way everyone embraces diversity. 3M treats every employee like an individual and looks at personal potential for every position. This includes career opportunities in the plant, regardless of gender, physical ability or family origin. Some people may think it's challenging being a female in a traditionally male-dominated role, but I came in with one thought: do the best I can. When I moved on to be the lead negotiator for London, Ontario and negotiated contracts with two unions while in human resources, it was both challenging and rewarding. I'm fortunate to work in a very positive atmosphere for a fair, ethical company.

Making the Move: Manufacturing to Laboratory

The first time I stepped foot in a plant as a co-op student, I knew it was where I wanted to be. Although I've held a number of positions at 3M, understanding how manufacturing works helped me transition well into the various roles. I have made the transition as a mechanical engineer in a chemical world and am learning about product development in a laboratory rather than physically making the products. In my new role, I again have the opportunity to learn something new - the business side. 3M has many doors open to employees; people just need the courage to walk through them.

"I find all of the people I work with are very encouraging and give me the confidence to do my job even better." Enza Marketing Analyst Electrical and Communications Business 3Mer since 2005

An impressive organization

3M's quick response to my online application drew me in to the company right away. A hiring personnel recognized my skill set, a bachelor of science degree, customer service work experience and bilingual abilities, as an asset to 3M and interviewed me within two days of applying. I then researched the company further and learned the Canadian headquarters were in London, Ontario – what better way to get involved with a company than the main office? I decided to accept an entry-level position to get exposure to various businesses and prove myself worthwhile in hopes of being offered a full time position. Four years later, I stand by my decision and continue to have a very positive experience here.

Life in London

When I learned I was moving to London and needed a job to facilitate the move, I looked at various companies including 3M. My job's great, and the city's much better than I expected. There are many people from Montreal in London; it's like a home away from home. Also, since London's quite small, at least compared to Montreal, it didn't take me too long to get used to the city. The people here are friendly and I've felt welcome at work and in the community my entire time here. I have also been able to balance my work with being with my family who still live eight hours away. Even during a family emergency, 3M was very understanding and allowed me the flexibility I needed. I'm still adjusting to life in London, but being a part of the 3M community certainly makes it easier.

As an analyst

About two years after I started at 3M, I was hired full time as a marketing analyst. Here, I have an in-depth exposure to the businesses and I appreciate the creative component to my job. I get to be part of the team working on pricing for sales, develop internal communications pieces and create external notices to distributors. I didn't expect being from Montreal would play a role in my job, but I've been able to provide my team with an inside perspective on the culture and I can also identify what's important to people in Quebec. The business environment is fast-paced; I have to move fast, think quickly and be creative at moment's notice. I like these challenges and I feel like a valuable part of the team. I find all of the people I work with are very encouraging and give me the confidence to do my job even better.

Why 3Mers stay

If there's one certainty about working here, it's people want to stay. There are many ways to grow within the company, or switch businesses to gain an entirely new perspective on what's available. Even though I work for the electrical division, I studied biological sciences in university and knowing one day I could move into a health care role is not only reassuring, it's exciting. I find, regardless of my rank, people reward and acknowledge what I do, yet always offer constructive criticism to help strengthen my skills another great reason to stay. I feel like I'm constantly learning from colleagues and I appreciate 3M offers formal training to improve my skills. The more I learn about 3M, it seems we can make anything, and overcome anything, by working together.

"At 3M, career possibilities seem endless. Employees can start as an engineer and become a business manager." Jim Business Manager Track and Trace 3Mer Since 1985

A Place to Learn and Grow

Right after I graduated with a bachelor of science in electrical engineering, I applied at every multinational in London, Ontario. I didn’t know a lot about 3M, but enjoyed a candid interview about solving a real issue in the plant with several employees and it felt like the right fit. At the time, I was prepared to move anywhere 3M Canada had a plant, but was fortunate to begin my career in my hometown. What really appealed to me with the broad exposure I’d have at 3M; instead of focusing on vehicles or cereal, I knew the breadth of 3M’s product line would keep my life interesting. That theory holds through over twenty years later: I learn something new every day whether it’s technical, business-related or personal.

Diverse Experience, Diverse Company

At 3M, career possibilities seem endless. Employees can start as an engineer and become a business manager. When I began, I was given full responsibility and accountability immediately and soon became a senior engineer. Later, I began diversifying my career becoming a lab supervisor for the commercialization group. At the same time, I began taking my masters in business administration which led to my move to Brockville, Ontario as the occupational health and environmental safety laboratory manager. When I returned to London, I worked as manager of environmental regulatory and security then moved into a coaching role as a black belt in Design for Six Sigma. Now I lead an entirely new business, track and trace. It’s important to diversify your work experience, tell others your career goals and have the courage to step forward when the opportunity comes.

Technical to Business Roles

My technical background helped position me well in the business roles I’ve had. Every experience builds my skills layer by layer, from electrical engineering to taking my master’s in business administration. I took a proactive approach to make the move from the technical to business roles making sure the right people recognized my skill set. Now, instead of focusing on improving the products 3M sells and finding better ways to make them, I build relationships with distributors and customers and constantly review where the business is on the top and bottom lines. Both business and technical roles require strong “out of the box” thinking to grow the business. Whether I’m working with third parties to distribute their products or finding ways to diversify the products I offer, my focus remains on growing the business.

Dedicated to My Job and Family

When the time came for me to move for work, I had a family which brings its own relocation challenges like finding a new school and adjusting to a new environment. 3M helps smooth the transition by providing temporary accommodation, finding a real estate agent and helping spouses find employment. Moving to Brockville was easier on me, giving me an entirely new perspective on life. I’ve never been in a situation where I could walk into the corner store and have people know me by name; it was a refreshing type of environment with a strong sense of community. Regardless of where I live, I’ve found the most important thing is balancing commitments at home and in the office by being dedicated to both.

"You can go as far as you want to go at 3M." Sherry Manager Supply Chain 3Mer since 1980

Personally and Professionally, 3M Cares

With its extensive product line of well-known quality brands created in a welcoming, ethical environment, 3M is a great place to work. There is a sense of camaraderie here where people talk to each other and care about personal and professional milestones. While other large companies cut costs by ending special employee events, 3M continues to sponsor events like the children’s festive party and company picnic. Above all, 3M cares about employees’ career goals. I’ve held a number of different jobs and have found 3Mers to be supportive of people interested in trying new positions. You can go as far as you want to go at 3M.

Versatility through Ambition

Integrity and ambition get you pretty far in a company like 3M. I started at an entry level position and about a decade later, I began a string of leadership positions beginning as the supervisor in the product information centre. About five years later, I moved to logistics manager then supply chain manger in the London, Ontario plant. In 2004, I became a Six Sigma black belt then, two years later, managed the business information technologies services team. Most recently, in 2008, I became the supply chain manager for outsourced manufacturing and contract packaging. With every move, I’ve had the freedom to shape each role into what I felt it should be. From internal and external clients to office and manufacturing environments, I’ve experienced the breadth of the company and am excited to see where my next position takes me.

Continued Education

I’ve been at 3M since graduating high school and am fortunate the company encourages continuing education. Throughout my first few years at 3M, I took night school courses at a local university and college and ended up earning my business degree. Later, I received my master's in business administration through distance learning. The company’s tuition reimbursement program meant I could keep my job while getting credentials for future positions with minimal financial investment. For two positions, I went to 3M in the United States for courses and on-the-job training. I also take many of the training courses held by the human resources department to enhance my skills. I enjoy learning and find formal education reinforces what you already know, but the most valuable training is learning hands-on.

Adapt to Excel

The best advice I can give is, be adaptable. My first job, key punch operator, doesn’t exist anymore because everything is online now. Similarly, during the mid-to-late ’80s, my job in IT changed very quickly with new technologies and business processes. Changes happen to 3M’s internal structure as well where employees must continually adjust to new bosses, new expectations and new responsibilities. I recommend taking training courses and continuing education classes to help you adjust and grow. Adapting to different environments is part of any career and one of the ways I’ve found success at 3M.

"I love the people I work with and know, after I fulfill my duties in my current role, there is something waiting for me around the corner to take on." Britta Manager Infection Prevention Control Sales 3Mer since 1998

Room to Grow at 3M

When I began looking for a career after university, I was determined to find a large, well-established company to work for. A position posted for 3M in the university’s faculty of management recruiting office intrigued me because I recognized the reputable company and knew there would be many opportunities for personal growth and career development there. I accepted my first role to get exposure within the company, and I soon learned there’s a lot more to 3M than its power brands like Post-it and Scotch. Over ten years later, I’m still here because I love the people I work with and know, after I fulfill my duties in my current role, there is something waiting for me around the corner to take on.

Specialize for Career Development

I learned the importance of taking care of customers early in my career as a customer service representative for the consumer and office group in London, Ontario. When I moved into a public relations role two years later, I received in-depth exposure to the health care division, and decided to specialize in the industry. Soon after, I moved to Ottawa to take a position selling skin health and infection prevention solution products. A few years later, I moved back to London for a marketing position in health care and, most recently, accepted a position for national sales manager of the infection prevention business. I am very deliberate in the jobs I apply for and accept as I see each move as a building block to my future. Additionally, specializing in health care early accelerated my career path considerably.

Leading a National Sales Team

When I accepted my position as national sales team manager, I knew it would stretch me in ways I didn’t think possible. My role revolves around motivating team members, giving them direction, coaching new employees, and being accountable for the national budget and sales forecast. Managing people nationwide is a challenge, but I travel half of my time to visit customers in the field, and attend shows and events with my sales representatives. Within the office, I represent the team in meetings to ensure its needs are met. I’ve found the key to being a manager is recognizing the need to coach rather than do. I set the tone for the team, outline clear expectations and maintain a positive attitude and everyone else follows my lead. It’s incredibly rewarding watching my team grow and develop.

A Winning Attitude

Success in sales relies heavily on the way each customer relates with the 3M representative. To help people realize they’re responsible for their own destinies, my team adapted a “winning attitude” vision. This includes being positive and not feeling sorry for oneself. Being optimistic is highly contagious and I enjoy leading this vision by example. I constantly highlight positive sales results among the team and we all celebrate big wins by emailing it up and down upper management, copying the vice-president of the business and sending a congratulations package in the mail. Above all, instead of tolerating complaints, I encourage the team to do something about what is wrong. Success is all in your attitude and the amount of effort you’re willing to put in to accomplish what you set out to do.