Michelle Korthuis
IMAX is lucky to have a rep force full of energetic and interesting people. It’s true! Each rep has their own story to tell of what makes them who they are. To help you get to know our sales team a little better, we decided to feature a rep each month right here on our blog.
We would like to introduce you to Michelle Korthuis, our October rep of the month!
We’ve asked Michelle a few questions, and posted her answers below. After you get to know her, if you like Michelle as much as we do (and we know you will), be sure to say “hi” in the comments section below the post.
How long have you worked with your sales group?
I’ve been an independent rep for five years.
How long have you worked as a sales representative?
14 years
Complete the following statement: I LOVE selling IMAX because…
… It’s SO easy to sell! Great product, quick shipping, and best of all it retails. It’s a win-win for everyone.
Complete the following statement: I got into repping because…
… I was in retail and loved it but needed a more flexible schedule as a single mom. This career allowed me to have time to be “Mom” and have a successful career.
What do you like most about your job?
All of the relationships I have made over the years, and feeling like I’m a valuable asset to my customers as well as the manufacturers.
What do you like least about your job?
I used to travel alone, but now that my fiancé, Brian, and I travel together, I look forward to it.
What is your favorite stress releaser? i.e. At the end of a long road trip, long day, long market or tough sales month?
A long hike followed by a home-cooked meal.
You travel on the road and to markets – what is your favorite travel tip that you would like to share?
I have recently starting using Google Maps to plot my appointments for road trips. They are all plotted on one map. I can make sure I’m not backtracking and make the best use of my time and gas. I’m terrible with directions so this has been very helpful.
Fill in the blanks: When I go to market, pack cute shoes, but I never wear them. I wish I could wear these cute shoes and have my feet survive at market.
What are some of your best retailers doing to be successful?
Engaging with their customers and building relationships through social media.
What are retailers in your area asking for?
Guidance on product selection, they have to be more cautious these days and do not want to take as many risks. They want BEST SELLERS and FREE SHIPPING.
What is the funniest or most interesting thing a customer has ever said to you?
I met with a furniture store that had converted a meat packing plant into their showroom. The owner took me on an eerie tour explaining in detail what happened in each room. At one point he said, “Do you want to see the slaughter room?”
If you could have any position, career or job, what would it be?
Honestly, I’m doing what I love! It hardly feels like work most of the time, except the end of a long day at market! 😉
Name something on your bucket list.
Hawaii… hopefully soon!
Tell us about your children/family/pets.
I have an amazing 18 yr old daughter (Nicky), who is a freshman at the University of Utah. She was a competitive gymnast growing up and now coaches gymnastics. My fiancé, Brian, is my partner in life and now my partner in the business as well. We enjoy working together and are building a home next year. We adopted a new member to the family last year, Lily – a black lab mixed with a little crazy. She has been a fun addition to the family.
