Sales Rep of the Month: Cathy Cason
To say that the IMAX Worldwide Home outside sales team is comprised of some of the most knowledgeable and dedicated people on the planet may seem hyperbolic, but the truth is that they’re a key component to the success of the brand. Notwithstanding just a touch of a competitive spirit, outside sales reps are a special breed of team player. Consider for example the geographical logistics alone. When one is physically located within a traditional office environment, the energy and enthusiasm generated by coworkers in the same proximity is very often taken for granted. Working remotely and often traveling, the outside sales representative must look within themselves for the determination and drive to succeed.
Cathy Cason, Central Florida Territory Manager for Appelman Schauben, a rep group partner of IMAX, is a stellar example of this rare breed of individual. We sat down with her recently to find out a little more about her experiences during a short Q & A session.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am a born and raised Ohio Buckeye, transplanted to the Sunshine State when the Advertising Agency I worked for transferred me to Tampa to open a new office. I arrived with determination and thankfulness to escape the cold and snow! I am fortunate to be married to the same man for 32 years, Danny. He makes sure I don’t work 24/7. We have three absolutely awesome grown children: Devon, Kylie, and Dillon. My career has always been in Sales and Marketing and I have been fortunate to travel many places and meet many wonderful people along the way.
What do you love most about IMAX Worldwide Home?
IMAX offers such a great assortment of products for every type of buyer. Customers in Florida are especially happy with the highly sought-after coastal styles at a wide range of price points. Design firms love that they can find anything they need, from casual to luxury items, at the quantities they require whether it be a few or many. Then there’s the teamwork component – everyone I have the pleasure of working with goes the extra mile to ensure I have the tools and resources I need to provide my clients with the highest level of service. Even accommodating the most seemingly impossible requests.
Tell us about some of your favorite customer experiences:
I enjoy all of my experiences with the customers because interacting with people is my passion. It’s what I love to do. It gives me an opportunity to learn more about my customers and to stay tuned to their needs.
Which is your favorite market and why?
Market is such a great opportunity to introduce my accounts to new styles… not just new releases, but also items they may not have considered before seeing them in person. I enjoy Atlanta market because I have the opportunity to not only meet with my current accounts, but it is also a great opportunity to introduce IMAX to all types of retailers that may not be familiar with the variety of products offered. I love High Point because the people who attend are buyers who know the industry well, appreciate the quality selection, and look forward to seeing what’s new and what’s trending for the upcoming season.
What aspect of your job gives you the greatest satisfaction?
The greatest satisfaction comes from meeting with my customers on the road and hearing how they “love” IMAX. (Yes, that’s the word they use most often!) It feels good to make suggestions that turn into great sales, or help find that perfect accessory for a design install that arrives on time and completes the space. At the end of the day, I just love to make someone’s job a little easier.
What personal attribute do you consider to be your key to success?
I simply desire to always provide the best possible service, quickly, accurately, with a smile… and a big thank you!
What are your 3-5 favorite IMAX products this season and why?
1. Trellis Console Table (64461): Hard to find long accent table; love the crisp white with the industrial style galvanized top.
2. Shire Ceramic Seabirds – Set of 2 (27300-2): So right for so many places and a Florida favorite!
3. Nakasa Loxley Top Grain Leather Sofa (91500): Gorgeous leather, shape, and color. I would own it if I was single.
4. Nakasa Spheres Mirror Bookshelf (30027): So interesting!
5. Pryce Decorative Trays (14758-2): New really beautiful trays with timeless Mid-Century modern shape and color.
Note: Cathy wanted to make sure everyone knows how grateful she is to have such wonderful customers, and how and honored she is for being acknowledged as Rep of the Month. Thank you, Cathy, for representing IMAX Worldwide Home with your signature style and for your dedication. You are appreciated.