The world of tech sales has a reputation for its high earning potential. In 2023, the average salary for a tech sales representative in the U.S. was about 25 percent higher than the national average. But money isn’t the only reason sales reps love working for tech companies.
For Elena Santulli, sales development representative at ChowNow, it was the business’s mission-driven nature that initially captured her interest.
“I prioritized finding a role within a reputable, mission-driven organization because I wanted to genuinely make an impact with the product or service I was selling, in this case for restaurant partners,” she said.
Stacey Banks, a regional account manager at HopSkipDrive had a similar aim. The company works to offer safe and dependable transportation solutions for schools and families, focusing particularly on youth in foster care, youth experiencing homelessness and youth with special needs. Banks connected with that mission immediately.
“Coming from a family that has fostered children for over 18 years, HopSkipDrive filled my heart with gratitude,” she said.
Built In LA sat down with Banks and Santulli to hear more about how these company missions make their sales jobs not just lucrative, but also meaningful.
ChowNow's platform helps restaurants manage online orders, marketing and satisfaction in a streamlined way.
As a sales representative, what were you looking for in your next role when you started your most recent job search?
I prioritized finding a role within a reputable, mission-driven organization because I wanted to genuinely make an impact with the product or service I was selling, in this case for restaurant partners. ChowNow has made it clear that our mission to help local restaurants thrive is behind everything we do.
ChowNow has made it clear that our mission to help local restaurants thrive is behind everything we do.”
What stood out to you about your current employer, and how has that perception changed since you've started?
What initially stood out to me was the level of quality in everything ChowNow does. I experienced it first-hand through the interview process, training and then on the job.
There are also many opportunities for professional growth. Overall, my initial positive perception of ChowNow has only strengthened since joining the organization. The company’s exceptional reputation in the industry is well-deserved, and I feel fortunate to be a part of this team.
From a selling perspective, what sets this company apart from others you've worked at in the past?
What sets ChowNow apart from everywhere else I’ve worked is the commitment to the mission. Teams across the org are all driving in the same direction to make an impact for our restaurant partners. This has fostered a very fun, supportive, collaborative work environment while working toward the same goal.
HopSkipDrive is an information technology company that offers safe and dependable transportation solutions for schools and families.
As a sales representative, what were you looking for in your next role when you started your most recent job search?
I was looking for multiple things including an inviting, inclusive and diverse company culture. I also wanted to join a company that offered growth potential for both employees and in the market. A crucial factor for me was working for an organization that helped people; I wanted to feel good about what I was selling.
What stood out to you about your current employer, and how has that perception changed since you've started?
I love that HopSkipDrive is a woman-founded company, how much this service helps children in need and in transition, and that the company makes a huge impact on chronic absenteeism. Coming from a family that has fostered children for over 18 years, HopSkipDrive filled my heart with gratitude. That perception hasn’t changed — I’m only more excited about the mission.
Coming from a family that has fostered children for over 18 years, HopSkipDrive filled my heart with gratitude.”
From a selling perspective, what sets this company apart from others you've worked at in the past?
The product works, and we are who we say we are. As a sales representative, I believe in the product, and I believe in the company and what we are trying to achieve. That makes a huge difference when I am speaking to prospective customers.