Just Like Me: What exactly do you do?

Vincenzo: I am a Sales Representative for a well recognized orthopedic company. I specialize in selling total joint replacement(knees and hips). I work in the operating room during these surgeries to provide a value to the doctor. When it comes to the instrumentation for a total knee and the implant details, we need to be an expert. When not in the Operating room servicing the surgeons who use our product, we are out in the field cultivating new business. Sales are all about growing, bringing in more business, and making more money. Making relationships and increasing customer loyalty is huge in this business. I have been in this business for about a year now.

Why do you enjoy what you do?

I enjoy what I do for many reasons. One reason is because I am selling a device that is proven to significantly change someone’s life. I see the patients coming in and they are in so much pain and can barely walk. After a total joint replacement, the patients are pain free and walking again. I find this to be very rewarding. Also, I love sales! It’s competitive! I am very passionate about my products and I enjoy the chase of bringing on new business. I love communicating and working with new people everyday. I also like the flexibility of making my own schedule.

What lead you to this career? What advice do you have for other young professionals that you have learned through your experience?

I knew once football ended that I wanted to be in sales. My uncle is in pharmaceuticals. However, these companies are downsizing a lot. So I decided to prose medical device sales instead. This was not an easy task in the beginning.  I had no experience and everyone told me that I wasn’t going to find a job in this field without sales experience. So I just keep on applying and applying and finally I got an opportunity to be interviewed. After 5 interviews, I got the position. The best advice I can give is: be patient!! This is something that I lack! When you want something, work your butt off, but do not rush things. If you work hard, things will fall into place. Getting a job in this market can be very frustrating. It was for me! Other advice I can give is : before you get a job and work for the rest of your life, do the things that you want to do. Travel! Have fun! I had an opportunity to play football overseas, but I wanted to start my career and make money.  Yet now looking back, I feel as if I may have missed out on a opportunity to travel Europe and play more football–the game I love and have dedicated so much of my life to. So in sum, be patient with yourself and remember to look for something you enjoy and will fulfill you! I was lucky to be pleasantly surprised in my career change..maybe you will be too!

Being that you played football for Syracuse University for 5 years, what has sports taught you and become an asset for you in the business world?

Sport teaches you hard work, how to prepare, teamwork, and how to overcome adversity. To be successful, there is no question that you have to work very hard and put extra time in. I truly believe that you get out of it what you put into it! Preparation is key! In college football, the game is 50 % mental. Studying and knowing your opponent and play book is critical. Same in sales; you need to know your product inside and out! You know the saying, “There is no I in team?” Football has taught me to sacrifice for my teammates. To do whatever is necessary for the best interest of the team. One must also transition this skill into the business world. In order to have a successful organization, you must have a strong team! Also, I save the best for last: perseverance!!! The measure of a man is not when things are going well, but how he reacts when in face of adversity. Football has taught me how to overcome adversity and to persevere. This is not an easy thing to do. Blood, Sweat, and Tears! College football was physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. The environment is never comfortable. It taught me how to dig deep and face challenges. This transitions into the business world every day. Every doctor does not immediately say, “Yes, Vincenzo I will buy your product.” In fact, most say no. This creates an opportunity for me to keep fighting the fight, sell more products, and never give up.