Episode 7: If Sales Was Easy Everyone Would Do it | Ryan Spicer

From Soccer to Sales: Insights from Ryan Spicer’s Journey

In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Ryan Spicer, a former professional soccer player and current sales leader. Ryan shared his journey from the soccer field to the sales floor, offering valuable insights for those considering a career in sales.

Transitioning from Sports to Sales

Ryan’s athletic career was marked by dedication, teamwork, and resilience. He recalled memorable moments from his soccer career, including a high-stakes game in college that went into multiple overtimes and penalty kicks. However, it was the daily training and camaraderie with his teammates that he cherished most. These experiences laid a strong foundation for his transition into the business world.

Facing the Sales Stigma

Ryan admitted that he initially had reservations about entering the sales industry. Like many, he had preconceived notions about sales being pushy and dishonest. However, a mentor who had followed a similar path encouraged him to explore the field. This mentor’s guidance, coupled with Ryan’s curiosity and willingness to learn, helped him overcome his hesitation.

Learning the Ropes

Ryan’s first sales role was at Viacom, where he quickly realized the importance of having a beginner’s mindset. He approached his job with humility, eager to absorb as much knowledge as possible. His curiosity and drive to understand the business from the ground up were crucial to his early success.

The Role of Creativity in Sales

Ryan emphasized that sales, especially in the media industry, involves much more than just closing deals. It requires creativity and strategic thinking to integrate brands into the consumer experience effectively. This aspect of sales kept Ryan engaged and motivated, as it allowed him to continuously develop and propose innovative solutions to clients.

Resilience and Adaptability

A key takeaway from Ryan’s journey is the importance of resilience and adaptability in sales. He shared how dealing with rejection and setbacks is part of the job. However, the ability to bounce back and keep pushing forward is what ultimately leads to success. This mindset, honed through years of competitive sports, has been invaluable in his sales career.

Advice for Aspiring Sales Professionals

For those considering a sales career, Ryan offers practical advice:

1. Understand Your Motivation: Reflect on why you want to enter sales and what qualities you seek in a job. This self-awareness will help you find a role that aligns with your goals and interests.
2. Seek the Right Environment: Look for companies that foster collaboration, provide opportunities for growth, and support their employees. Ask about the company culture and speak with potential colleagues to get a sense of the work environment.
3. Embrace Learning and Feedback: Approach your career with a willingness to learn and seek out feedback. Continuous improvement and skill development are essential in sales.
4. Be Prepared for Challenges: Recognize that sales is not easy and requires a high level of commitment and perseverance. Being prepared to face and overcome obstacles is crucial for long-term success.

Being Dialed In

To Ryan, being “dialed in” means having a clear understanding of your role, being committed to achieving your goals, and remaining resilient in the face of challenges. It’s about knowing what’s expected of you, striving for excellence, and not giving up when things get tough.

Ryan Spicer’s journey from soccer to sales is a testament to how the skills and mindset developed in sports can translate into a successful sales career. His story serves as an inspiration for athletes and veterans considering this path, highlighting the importance of dedication, adaptability, and a continuous drive to learn and grow.