Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendy Elmore.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My career starts at Clemson University where I had no clue what I wanted to do when I graduated college. I bounced around several different degree programs until finally landed a passion for Science. However, I didn’t want to spend my time in a lab or working as an Engineer. I have always loved working with people. So, when I graduated, I moved to Charleston and became a High School science teacher and baseball/football coach. I spent 5 years in the profession and as much as I loved working with people, it wasn’t fulfilling my entrepreneurial spirit. At that point, I spent over a year trying to transition into Medical Sales. I quickly discovered that it was nearly impossible to land a job in the industry. I finally received an entry-level opportunity as an Associate Sales Rep and have spent the last 12 years in the industry. I have assisted with thousands of surgeries, replacing almost every joint in someone’s body – hips, knees, shoulder, ankle, and elbows. It has been a fascinating career and one that I feel fortunate to have experienced. In 2021, I did some deep soul searching and really began to ponder ideas like legacy, purpose, and meaning. It was in those moments, that I knew it was time for me to begin working on something bigger than myself. So, in October of 2021, I formed The Lobby: A Medical Sales Network. For the first time, current and aspiring medical sales reps, managers, and recruiters have the opportunity to come to an event and learn more about the industry. It is a place for a teacher, nurse, or army veteran to network with current sales reps. It is breaking down barriers that have been in place for years and opening doors for so many people. In just a short amount of time, we have already connected hundreds of people in the Charleston area, provided educational programs, and seen numerous individuals land the job of their dreams. There is no better feeling than creating something that helps others achieve their dreams. It is my dream now to grow this program and to expand it to other cities throughout the US.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This is the second business that I’ve started and if there is anything that I’ve learned is that there will always be struggles along the way. Whether it’s struggling with finances, finding the right people, venue, having enough time to get everything completed, technical issues, weather issues, and the biggest struggle of all for me – believing in yourself. The life of an entrepreneur is extremely difficult. Every day is like a rollercoaster. One day you get amazing news that moves you a step forward, then something happens the following day and you take two steps backwards. I personally have found that working with a business coaching is one of the most valuable things an entrepreneur can do. I have always worked with a business coach and we do not offer business and sales coaching as part of our program. Having someone to help you to continue pushing forward, setting goals, holding you accountable, and walking beside you every step of the way is invaluable. I would highly recommend getting a coach for anyone just starting a business or struggling in their current business.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have always thought the healthcare industry was lacking a community for the sales reps. I believed there was a better way to open the doors to the industry and create avenues for individuals interested in learning more about medical sales. For so many years the industry has been segmented by company or specialty. Blocked off by countless barriers for individuals wanting to pursue careers. To the point where some are so desperate, that they are willing to spend upwards of $20,000 to attend a training where they can hopefully get an interview.
So we created The Lobby. A networking organization for the medical sales industry. In person events that are open to all current and aspiring medical sales professionals. A place where everyone can network, share stories, help each other, learn from speakers, attend training programs, and be a part of a community. I believe we can all come together and make each other better. The more connected we are as an industry the better we are as a whole. People seem to be craving community now more than ever as we begin to come out of the pandemic.
Anytime I create a new business, the fear for me has always been “what if it fails” “what if no one shows up” “what if it doesn’t work.” What I am most proud about The Lobby is that people have shown up and continue to show up. We have truly built a company that people love, appreciate, and want to be part of. I have countless texts and emails from current and aspiring reps thanking me for creating this platform. For that reason, I am most proud of The Lobby for making a difference in other people’s lives.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I would say I am traditionally risk adverse, however, if I believe in the idea and have done my homework, then I am not afraid to lay it all on the line and take a risk. I think the biggest risks you take when starting a new company are the financial and public risks. Starting a new company oftentimes requires a lot of upfront money and time. For the Lobby, it meant bringing in other specialists to help with website development, building platforms for our training programs, booking venues, creating newsletters, ordering equipment, as well as many other costs. So, the financial requirement is definitely one of the biggest risks you take at the beginning.
I think the second biggest risk you take when starting a new business, is the public risk. Being vulnerable enough to put yourself, your ideas, your passions, your time, your energy, and your beliefs out there publicly for everyone to judge. You will come across people that will tell you it’s a bad idea. That your idea won’t work. I had a rep tell me that no one would show up to the events. You have to learn very quickly who’s opinion is worth listening to and ignore the other noise. Having the courage to press on and risk it all is one of the most courageous things I think someone can do in their life. One of my favorite speeches is Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena.” There is no greater achievement than to dare greatly and follow your dreams. Regardless of the end result. The fact that you were vulnerable enough to try is all that matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thelobbynetwork.com
- Instagram: @the.lobby.network
Image Credits:
Rook Barber
