A few days ago, as I reflected on my career journey, I had a profound realization: the combination of my skillset and industry has significantly shaped my life.
When I began my career as an Environmental Consultant, I started as a Scientist. Just four years later, I was offered a position in Business Development—a shift that dramatically altered my professional path.
The company's management recognized that my blend of technical expertise and natural people skills was a rare and valuable combination. Not only could I connect with clients on a personal level, but I also deeply understood their technical challenges.
Given the seriousness of my role, I would often say, "If I show up, you're probably not having a good day." But the fact that our clients knew we fully understood their needs made all the difference. It was the reason they called us instead of our competitors.
Years later, when I launched my first company, All The Tastes of New York, I was at a book signing in Albany, NY, talking with one of the distillers featured in my book, Discovering The New York Craft Spirits Boom.
As he shared his challenges in getting his products into bars, restaurants, and liquor stores in NYC, I knew I had the skills and knowledge to help him. And then it hit me: if he was facing these issues, so were the other 29 distillers featured in the book.
That realization planted me firmly in the craft spirits industry.
When I eventually rebranded All The Tastes of New York to Tastes Brands—expanding to include both domestic and international spirits—I never had to seek out clients. Every single one came through referrals from accounts and distributors.
Along with my work ethic, I was fortunate to have an advantage few others did: a deep understanding of both sales and spirits. This unique combination made me a “unicorn” in the industry.
I share these stories because, in both instances, my advantage came from pairing my skills with a market where they were rare—even though I was in two entirely different industries.
My ability as a business development specialist wasn’t anything extraordinary on its own. It was my specialized knowledge in these secondary industries that made me invaluable.
With that in mind, I encourage you to reflect on your own skillset. Perhaps it doesn't seem particularly special on the surface, but consider how powerful it could become if applied in a market where it is rare.
The potential for revenue growth and new opportunities could be limitless!
As always, I hope the insights I share offer you valuable food for thought.
I’m here to support you on your journey to living your best life.
In Life & Love,
Heather
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