Selling Like a Woman: My Workday Journey

Charting My Course at Workday

Similar to many, my path into software sales wasn’t a planned one. I started my career as a computer programmer before transitioning into Customer Success, and eventually stepping into the world of quota-carrying sales. After six years with Workday, I’ve learned that it’s not merely a workplace; it’s a community that has shaped the contours of my career. My journey at Workday started as a Customer Base Account Executive, focusing on the intricacies of customer engagement, while navigating the nuanced landscape of delivering solutions within the Workday ecosystem. In my current role as a Regional Sales Director, I’ve witnessed our team’s metamorphosis. From a humble group of 5 Regional Sales Directors and 24 Customer Base Account Executives, we’ve evolved into a powerhouse — boasting 3 Regional Vice Presidents, 16 Regional Sales Directors, and a robust team of over 125 Customer Base Account Executives. The growth has been monumental, reflecting both the organizational prowess and the boundless opportunities for personal and professional development.

Navigating the Unexpected: Cancer

Life’s turns often take us to unforeseen destinations. Five years ago, I faced an unexpected and daunting challenge — cancer. In the face of this adversity, the support I received from my leadership, and the entire Customer Base team at Workday was nothing short of extraordinary. Beyond the medical tests and treatments, what stood out was a moment of profound solidarity. On a particularly challenging day, I reached out to my manager, expecting a brief update on my deals. Instead, I found myself at the heart of a touching gesture — pink t-shirts with #TeamBoyett on the back and “Stronger than Cancer” on the front, sent to the entire Customer Base organization and Workday’s Executive team. The ensuing flood of pictures, comments, and support from luminaries like Dave Duffield, Doug Robinson, Ashley Goldsmith, and many others was overwhelming. My team, a resilient force, donned these shirts at our QBR, simultaneously engaging in a Giving & Doing activity for a local breast cancer organization. It was a testament to the strength of camaraderie and empathy at Workday. I’m grateful that my cancer journey, resulting in a mastectomy, saw a swift recovery, allowing me to miss only three weeks of work. Hitting my sales quota that year, even with the challenges, was a triumph not just for me but for the collective spirit of resilience at Workday.

Leading with Impact: Women at Workday

As a female leader at Workday, the experience has been not just rewarding but empowering. There’s representation of women in leadership within our sales organization, a testament to Workday’s commitment to embracing everyone through VIBE. We offer mentorship and community through our Women in Sales and Women in Sales Leadership groups. At Workday, i’m recognized for my skills and contributions, not merely as a woman but as a leader excelling in her role. The ethos of these groups extends beyond gender, fostering an environment where leaders of all backgrounds are celebrated based on merit and expertise.

“It’s a reminder that, at Workday, it’s not about breaking the glass ceiling; it’s about exceeding expectations and creating a level playing field for everyone.”

Nurturing Leadership: The Power of Mentorship

Mentorship is a cornerstone of success in the world of sales. My Workmate mentors have shaped my leadership style. From strategizing on deals to navigating the nuances of analytics, mentorship has been a continuous thread of growth as I now act as a mentor to other Workmates. An example of the cyclical nature of mentorship, where experiences and knowledge flow seamlessly, nurturing the next generation of leaders. The collaborative spirit at Workday transforms selling into a team sport, where mentorship is not just about personal growth but also about creating a robust support system for the entire team.

Inspiring Women to Soar: A Call to Action

It’s a mission of mine to encourage more women to explore sales careers and my advice is simple — pursue your passion. The key is to love what you sell and to be authentically passionate about it. The best compliment you can receive from a customer is about being a partner who understands their business and contributes to making it better. When considering a move in the sales industry, beyond the allure of a company’s products, dive into its culture. Ensure it aligns with your values, knowing a belief in what you sell resonates authentically with your audience.

Along my Workday journey, each turn has added to my professional fulfillment and personal growth. Workday isn’t merely a workplace; it’s a thriving ecosystem where people excel, mentorship flourishes, and every triumph is a collective celebration. As I continue to navigate the world of software sales, I invite more women to step into the spotlight, embrace the challenges, and contribute to the ever-growing legacy of impactful women at Workday. It’s not just about selling; it’s about soaring, thriving, and leaving a mark in the boundless opportunities of software sales.

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