FROM GRADUATION TO GOVERNMENT TECH: STARTING A CAREER AS A WOMAN IN SALES

I graduated from James Madison University in May of last year, and just six weeks later I started my first full-time role at Vertosoft. This was a fast transition, and I wasn’t just entering sales, a field still largely dominated by men, but government tech sales specifically. Without a formal tech background, I definitely experienced some imposter syndrome at the beginning. I had to learn how to speak confidently about several different solutions I was still mastering in order to keep up in conversations with those who were professionals in the topics.

What’s made a real difference has been the culture around me. From day one, Vertosoft created an environment where I was supported but also challenged. No one ever made me feel like I didn’t belong, and rather than lowering expectations, they invested time in helping me learn about the industry, including me in conversations, and trusting me with responsibility. Women also hold multiple of our leadership roles at Vertosoft, which makes me excited for my future as having them to look up to keeps me inspired. Additionally, the number of women on our sales team has been growing, and this has created an amazing support system. In less than a year, I’ve built confidence, created meaningful opportunities, and learned that growth often comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone.

I feel so lucky to have found this opportunity at Vertosoft, and I’m so grateful that this is the place I get to begin my journey as a woman in this challenging industry.