Sales Associate"I believe showing a positive attitude has made things 80 to 90 percent easier. It is like magic. It's really something that is not difficult and just takes a little bit of practice. It makes a difference even in personal relationships."
 | Why did you join Bloomingdale's and why have you stayed? |
I came to the States in 1988 and the first job I applied for was at Bloomingdale's. It felt like home here. People were always supportive, especially my supervisors. They created a very nice environment in my job. These things help me to develop my talents because they motivate me and support me. This is the reason I stay at Bloomingdale's. Plus, the customers and my supervisors were happy with me and this gives me job satisfaction and a chance of doing something meaningful in my business life. Bloomingdale's has a magic, it's really not like any other store.
 | What do you enjoy most about what you do and what are your overall job responsibilities? |
I love to deal with the people. I am patient and try to help them. I act very sincerely; it is my responsibility to listen to them as a doctor listens to his patients. I focus mostly on what I am doing and how I can make them content so they have a very nice shopping experience.
 | What contribution do you make to your division and how do you feel you make a difference? |
I think it is most important for me to become a nice role model for my colleagues. I cannot really just go there and tell them what to do; I have to be an example to them. If they can observe what I am doing and even help in some cases, I think it is most important to act in a way that inspires them. It is also important whenever you come to work in the morning to start with a good attitude and a smile on your face. It makes a really big difference for me and my colleagues.
 | What has been your most memorable moment since joining the company? |
I believe there are a lot of memorable things at Bloomingdale's, but the most memorable moment was when I was named to the Macy's, Inc. Star Academy in 2002. I felt such a deep gratefulness in my heart to everyone. When I looked in each person's eyes as they were congratulating me, I saw a deep appreciation and joy. They were sincerely happy for me.
 | How has the training you've received since joining the company benefited you? |
Maybe it is my nature but without the company's training and support I wouldn't be as successful. Because they inspire me and they give me the tools, they create a nice environment to work in. I got a very good training and that's why I became so successful.
 | What personal interests/hobbies do you have and how do you balance them with your work? |
I love to be outside in nature and the mountains. I also love to swim. I love natural things like oceans, forests and mountains. Right now, I focus all my energy on caring for my mother. So, I try to make my work environment fun to provide time for enjoyment. I believe work must be fun in spite of its seriousness.
 | What advice would you give to a new associate joining the company? What helped you establish yourself and move ahead with your career goals? |
I will recommend, regardless of any situation-easy or difficult-to show a pleasant and positive attitude. This makes a very big difference. This kind of philosophy has enabled me to reach my goals. I believe showing a positive attitude has made things 80 to 90 percent easier. It is like magic. It's really something that is not difficult and just takes a little bit of practice. It makes a difference even in personal relationships.
 | What do you see in the future for Macy's, Inc. and the department store industry? |
Macy's, Inc. generally knows what the customers concerns are and what they need. If we continue with this philosophy, Macy's, Inc. will have a much better future. I'm sure that Macy's, Inc. and Bloomingdale's will continue this. We will continue to treat customers and coworkers with the same respect, and then I believe our task will be complete and we will get better results and Macy's, Inc. will be successful. That is what I believe.
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