Joyce Johnson is an Author, Speaker, Sales Champion, and Business Coach, who has worked as a sales leader, business consultant and mentor for over 20 years. Joyce recently released her seventh book and first memoir, “No Back Doors for Me.” By relaying her story, Johnson wants to free African American women from feeling the sense of failure or pain that evolves from the constant impact of -ism’s throughout their careers.
FWM: You are a Sales Champion, Author, and Coach. Share your background.
I have over 20 years of sales experience upon leaving corporate in 2019 I completed two consecutive years at #1 amongst over hundreds of peers. In 2017 I released my first book “Why Sales for College Students” to educate college students and their support groups on the many opportunities in the sales profession.
FWM: Tell us about the “Why Sales Network.” What is it important for you to educate and mentor students?
The mission of Why Sales Network was created to address communication I received through mentoring college students “that they are afraid and feel unprepared to successfully transition into meaningful employment upon graduation.
FWM: What is offered in your network?
In 2021, we will host our annual sales conference themed “2021 The New Sales Era”, We also launched “Why Sales Network Student Foundation” and rolled out a plan to create a student co-hort that will provide training, mentors and internships for participants.
FWM: You are a well-sought after speaker. What topics are you discussing in the next 6-months?
Great question! As a result of my work in corporate diversity and release of my new book “No Back Doors for Me”, I am asked to host panel discussions with college students and corporate employees on diversity, equity and inclusion to share my experiences and insight on DEI challenge and suggestions to work through them. A recent talk with college students was titled “Please Include Me – A cry for Equality”. I also hold a diversity certification from Cornell University.
FWM: Tell us about your book, “No Back Doors for Me.”
The book “No Back Door for Me” gives a voice to various experiences of ISMs mostly racism throughout my career. In the book, I describe the treatment, how I felt, how I responded or not to the abusive behavior. The book also challenges readers on both sides of these discriminatory experiences to take action towards change.
FWM: What was the best advice you have received?
I am learning daily and some advice is more or less relevant in certain times. Today I am focusing on advice to “keep planting seeds”.
FWM: Please share success stories.
I was able to continue my work, build my network and help others during COVID-19. Our team planted many seeds, helped individuals through our programs with training and development, introductions to companies and individuals and find new careers or roles.
FWM: What are your goals/projects for 2021?
IMPACT
I have many goals that are financial or numbers based they all lead to impact. Positively Impacting lives of every individual, group or community, I touch directly or indirectly.
