Finding fulfilment in holiday home sales: an interview with Angela Stevenson.

In the world of holiday home sales, where every interaction holds the promise of creating amazing memories for potential holiday homeowners, the role of a Sales Advisor is crucial. You can find out more about what our Sales Advisor role involves here. Today, I have the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Angela Stevenson, one of Parkdean Resorts' seasoned Holiday Home Sales Advisors. Angela's journey with Parkdean Resorts is nothing short of inspiring, peppered with challenges, triumphs, and a heartfelt return to a team she loves. 

Can you share with us your initial journey into Parkdean Resorts? What drew you to the position at the time and the company?

I first started working with Parkdean Resorts in 2017. At the time, I was seeking a change from a miserable job in debt collection which had a 2-hour commute time from home. I was looking for something closer to home due to personal circumstances. My Dad was very ill and I wanted to be closer so I could help him more. I also wanted a happy job where I wasn’t faced with angry people all the time. 

What are some of the key responsibilities and challenges you face in your role as a Holiday Home Sales Advisor at Parkdean Resorts?

As a Holiday Home Sales Advisor, you’re the face of the business and most of the time are the first person our guests and potential owners come into contact with when they start looking for a holiday home. With that comes a lot of responsibility to ensure positive first impressions. Challenges arose post-COVID for us, and it was a lot harder to complete sales due to fluctuating demands, but we got through and here we are! 

What motivated you to return to Parkdean Resorts after your time away? Was there something about the company culture or opportunities that drew you back?

I left to go and work for a competitor, but it was a very long commute and big culture change. What really prompted me to return was the people here and the culture. I missed the people I had worked with since 2017 and felt out of place in the new company. It just wasn’t the same and wasn’t enjoyable. I know this job back to front and love to be able to see sales through from beginning to end – it’s rewarding!

How did your previous experience at Parkdean Resorts inform your approach and strategies upon your return as a Holiday Home Sales Advisor?

When I returned to Parkdean Resorts, I approached it with a fresh set of eyes while also drawing on my previous experience which I knew worked well for me. I was also able to draw on my experiences working with a direct competitor and gained valuable insights into the role and wider industry.

Can you share a specific success story or accomplishment at Parkdean Resorts that you are particularly proud of?

I was awarded Employee of the Year for 2020 at Sandylands Holiday Park and was also selected to take part in the designate manager programme. It’s good to know when you’re doing well in your role.

What advice would you offer to individuals considering a career in Holiday Home Sales? What factors should they consider before making such a decision?

A career in Holiday Home Sales is rewarding both financially and personally, and it’s important to remember to maintain a good balance. It’s a happy environment to work in - who wouldn’t want to be paid to work on a holiday park? I find it interesting meeting people from all walks of life and seeing them on a regular basis on park, enjoying the facilities with kids or grandkids.  

Angela Stevenson's journey with us highlights the importance of enjoying your workplace and the impact it has on being happy at work. It’s a great example of the fulfilment and success that is possible within the world of Holiday Home Sales. Her dedication, resilience, and passion for creating memorable experiences for our owners serve as an inspiration to both aspiring and seasoned professionals in the industry.

Interested in starting a career in sales? You can browse jobs here if you’re ready to apply to join our team. Alternatively, read Tich’s story and find out more about how a career in holiday home sales can change your life.