Jimmy

"I think you have to enjoy your job and establish yourself by being energetic and happy about what you do. If you walk in with a positive attitude and enjoy what you do it's going to make a great impression on everyone you meet. Have a positive attitude with the different people that you are interacting with and share that excitement."

You've been recognized for your leadership as a sales manager. What abilities and skills make you a good leader? How have you made a difference?

I'm a risk taker with my staff. I'm genuine and try to inspire them. I have a good attitude and that makes them excited to be there. I want to make it good for them because we spend a lot of time together and if we are happy together, we are going to show it in our work. I work one-on-one with my staff and have their trust and respect. I've been there for 22 years and have had one employee stay in my department for the last eight years. I try to create a family atmosphere.

How do you build your team to provide the best working environment?

I work with my staff individually to help them learn what the customers needs are and to teach them to listen to what the customer is looking for. In today's environment where people run in and out, it is important to listen to what the customer needs. I also think you have to celebrate the good, positive things and have fun with what you do. That is a key element for me.

How does having a strong team foster the best shopping environment?

I think having the ability to come into work excited and to involve yourself in what you are doing helps you get the best results. We work with each other as a team and family and help each other out. That relationship helps us listen to the customer so we know what the customer wants and needs and we can get the customers what they want.

How do you set the example for your team?

I just enjoy what I do. Every day I go to work with a positive attitude and inspire my team to do the best they can. I try to show them that if you enjoy what you do you are going to get the best results.

In the time you've spent with Bloomingdale's, what has been your greatest accomplishment?

Building up my business and helping my sales associates realize their own life goals has been my greatest accomplishment at Bloomingdale's. Sometimes I have college students working for me who are working toward their own personal goals. Being a part of their development-working with them on a day-to-day basis and watching them grow and achieve their goals-is very rewarding to me.

What would you recommend to a new sales manager joining the company?

I think you have to enjoy your job and establish yourself by being energetic and happy about what you do. If you walk in with a positive attitude and enjoy what you do it's going to make a great impression on everyone you meet. Have a positive attitude with the different people that you are interacting with and share that excitement.