The day after her college graduation, Amanda Blume showed up for a job interview at a staffing firm and accepted an offer on the spot. “I was looking for something that would keep me out of my parent’s basement,” she says.
As it turns out, that first opportunity would spark Blume’s passion for helping others find their dream jobs. Since then, she’s pivoted from being a recruiter to helping other recruiters hire new talent. Today, Blume is a manager of regional sales at DHI Group, Inc., a company that matches employers with highly skilled technologists or candidates with active government security clearances.
Here, Blume talks about what it takes to succeed in sales, some of the best perks of working at DHI Group, and why self-care is an important part of her career success.
What initially attracted you to apply for a position at DHI Group, and what has kept you at the company for almost seven years?
I had been a successful super user of Dice & ClearanceJobs (DHI Group’s two subsidiaries) for many years. Both were a huge part of my workflow as a recruiter: I found my best candidates, maintained relationships, and was able to continuously grow my network—which is exactly what brought me to DHI Group.
Once I started working at DHI Group, I could see how coworkers throughout the organization were treated like family and committed to each other’s success. During my seven years here, I’ve had the chance to work with wonderful people who care about my career development. This has been even more transparent as I have made the transition from individual contributor to management.
What are you responsible for in your role?
As a manager of regional sales, I oversee the ClearanceJobs Enterprise Account Management team. This team supports ClearanceJobs’ largest clients within our community of government contracting and federal government recruiters. Our team ensures ease of access to security-cleared candidates to help fill the jobs that secure our nation.
What do you like best about working in sales?
I like that every day is different and that I get to build relationships with people all around the world. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d get to help solve problems while also sharing travel stories, exchanging recipes, or just venting about life. I’ve created such a diverse network in my short time working in sales, and it’s exciting to look forward to the next day and the next person I’ll get to meet.
What do you think it takes to be successful as a salesperson?
Always give more than you take and put others first. You also have to be able to handle the unexpected, and, of course, know how to laugh—whether it’s at yourself or while exchanging stories with a client. You are not always going to be a rockstar. Just like everything in life, good things come with time. Sales is about listening to others and taking the time to find a solution no matter how long it takes.
What is a recent achievement you’re most proud of?
Being selected as one of the President’s Club winners in 2021 was a huge achievement, and we were finally able to hold our President’s Club trip to Jamaica! Since the beginning of the pandemic, it has been difficult getting to see coworkers in person. Being selected as the 2021 ClearanceJobs Account Manager of the Year was even more exciting.
What are some of the ways in which DHI Group helps nurture and develop sales talent?
DHI Group has a very strategic leadership pathing program that encourages and prepares their sales employees to be successful. The program allows for visibility and transparency into pursuing what matters, including feedback from peers, constructing a leadership narrative that fits you, and focusing on DHI’s mission.
How would you “sell” working at DHI Group to a candidate?
The commission plans never disappoint, especially with all the spiff (sales bonus) money being thrown around. We offer hybrid and remote work, unlimited PTO, and Flexible Fridays, when the work day ends two hours early. Then there are the President’s Club trips throughout the Caribbean, which are at the most unique locations with top-notch accommodations (influencers would be jealous). Sales kickoffs are a blast, and there’s always a surprise way to win money, luxury cars, and Birkin bags. (Am I allowed to say all this?!)
What advice do you have for people just starting off in a sales career?
Take the chance. No one ever gets into sales knowing what they want. If you can listen and want to achieve something great, just show up. Work hard at being your best self and ultimately the rest will fall into place.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
“Feel good. Look good. Be good.” Focusing on your health mentally and physically is where it all starts. You need to be able to take care of yourself by understanding what invigorates you.