Wisdom Unlocked 🔓✨Career Lessons from Leading Women: A Conversation with Peggy Gilmore, Regional Sales Manager for Educational Software

1. Could you start by introducing yourself—your name and what you do? 

Hello! I’m Peggy Bernard, Regional Sales Manager for an educational software company. Though my career in software sales has spanned over 25 years, I have not always focused on the educational vertical.

2. How did your career begin, and how did you get to where you are today? 

Heavily influenced by a strong Catholic upbringing, I was conditioned to select a career of service.  I relied on my natural sales ability to pay my way through a 4-year BS Nursing program, only to discover I was unhappy delivering hands-on patient care.  After graduating, I landed a job selling Nursing Care Plan software. It was a great fit.  I was able to use my knowledge of nursing while receiving great satisfaction.  Serving others doesn’t mean one must suffer.  Borrowing a line from Mother Teresa, “Do ordinary things with extraordinary love”.  This can be applied to work in any field.

3. How have you seen the workplace shift since you started your career?

Technological advancements have made it easier to meet/work remotely. This is a godsend for many families that cannot afford childcare, gas, etc. One downside is the professional dress code has relaxed beyond recognition. I was recently shocked to see a co-worker show up to the office in flip-flops and a crop top. There’s less emphasis on work ethic and more focus on a balanced quality of life.

4. What are the most significant changes you’ve observed? 

Salaries for recent graduates are a lot higher than I ever imagined!

5. Conversely, what aspects of the workplace have remained constant in your experience? 

Salaries for women are still less than men and there is an underlying discrimination against older workers.

6. Storytime! We’d love to hear about a pivotal moment or decision that shaped your career. It can be a success or a challenge—what stands out to you, and how have you changed because of it? 

I was happy selling healthcare software, but I now had two small children, and traveling was difficult. A recruiter reached out with an opportunity to sell educational software. It was an inside position selling instructional software that was one of the first to market, true internet-delivered programs. The first time I saw it load, I was blown away. I’m not a teacher and knew nothing about education, but I knew I could sell the crap out of this truly revolutionary program. I stayed with it for 11 years. I helped grow the small company and brought in over $5 million yearly in new business and recurring revenue. It is one thing to be good at selling and another to believe in what you’re selling. I recognized the opportunity and was brave enough to take the risk.  I am more fearless today because of this choice.

7. Navigating work-life balance can be challenging and often more difficult for women. How have you managed this throughout your career?

Finding good childcare is the one thing no one prepares you for when having a baby. I have been blessed to find great caregivers. Look for someone who truly likes your children! Find time to exercise and eat right. You’ll be better at everything. Make time for your spouse. Eventually, it will be just you two – so start earning points now.

8. We encourage everyone, particularly women, to seek mentorship and guidance from leaders in their fields. Who has been your mentor along your journey, and how have they influenced your career?

I have had many wonderful bosses, both male and female.  Hearing “Good job!” never gets old. A male boss who believed in me and encouraged me stands out as a mentor figure. After seeing my numbers consistently climb, he promoted and prepared me for a VP Sales position. He eventually led me away to another company.  We shared mutual respect, appreciation, and admiration that endured for 15 years.  He was the most ethical, kindest man I’ve known. He lifted those around him and never put anyone down.  He inspired me to be more like him, by lifting those around me.

9. What’s one piece of advice you would give your younger self when you were starting?

Don’t be afraid to express your opinion. Take risks! Try to recognize opportunities before you, but know you can create your own opportunities.  I’d tell my younger self, “You can do anything”!!