10 Mar Women in Business: Camelback Vending
Statistics say that women own only 40% of businesses in the US, and we’re one of those businesses. Being a woman-owned business is something we’re super proud of here at Camelback Vending. Recently our owner Jodi was interviewed by the National Association of Automatic Merchandising, highlighting her as a woman in business. So, in honor of International Women’s Day, we wanted to share some of that interview with you. We also sat down with Jodi and talked about what being a woman in business means to her.
What do you think is your most significant advantage as a woman in business?
I think the most significant advantage is in-fact, being a woman and our ability to build relationships. I’m a people person, communicator, and I have always felt like people are more open to talking to me as a woman. As I started out at Camelback Vending, this gave me a competitive advantage over my peers. I could connect with clients, build meaningful relationships, and strong bonds. This allowed me to understand a Phoenix business’s needs in an in-depth way and create break rooms that exceeded their expectations.
To this day, this still sets us apart from other Phoenix area break room specialists. Our ability to offer exceptional customer service and establish meaningful connections with businesses has been critical to our success.
What does it mean to you to be a woman in business?
I don’t think of myself as a woman in business. I think of myself as a Phoenix business owner. It’s always been important to me that I didn’t let what made me different be the reason I couldn’t do anything. I never viewed myself as less capable because I was a woman. I remember in the early days; I would go out and do routes for our Phoenix break rooms because we didn’t have enough drivers. It’s always been about getting the job done and doing what I can to make Camelback Vending successful.
Do you feel like there have been extra challenges because you are a woman?
In business, no, because I’ve never allowed it to be a challenge. I think other challenges come from being a woman in business and having a family. Even though my husband has been hands-on and an involved dad, having a family creates extra challenges. I not only have to manage my business but also come home and maintain that part of my life as well. It’s obviously, worthwhile but challenging.
What’s a favorite piece of advice you’ve received that has helped you in your professional career? (from National Association of Automatic Merchandising)
There are two things I was told early in my career that always stick with me:
You can’t “grow” yourself out of challenges. Slow down, wrap your arms around your business and be wise about growth.
The more hurried you go, the slower you go. Sometimes we are so busy trying to rush through things, we end up moving slower because we have to backtrack and fix things we rushed through.
You can read more of the article from the National Association of Automatic Merchandising here.
Are you looking to speak to a break room specialist who will spend the time getting to know your business and it’s unique needs? We’d be happy to help you create a one of a kind micro-market or pantry, please call Camelback Vending Services at 602-278-5330 or fill out our contact form HERE.