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About Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Renowned psychologist Angela Duckworth shows through her own personal history and stories of others that success doesn’t just come from natural talent or people who can help you get where you want to go in your career. Instead, she says, the secret to success is a blend of passion and persistence that she refers to as “grit.”
Duckworth developed this hypothesis through years of teaching and business consulting. She saw that people who found their passion and kept trying were ultimately more successful than those who had a natural talent but lacked the perseverance to follow through.
Why Cydcor Recommends This Book
Duckworth offers a concrete path to developing grit. It starts with identifying a burning interest, practicing it a lot, developing a sense of higher purpose, and finally, overcoming pessimism by developing what psychologist and author Carol Dweck calls a growth mindset. She tells us that any effort you make counts twice toward your goal.
Some of us come into adulthood already having learned grit through dealing with difficult times and getting through them. But, Duckworth says, grit can be learned regardless of IQ or circumstances, and shows you how you can do it. Anyone can become gritty. By learning grit and making effort to grow your passion, you too can achieve more than you might have thought possible.
Our Favorite Part
In Grit, Duckworth shares specific examples of people who exhibited grit in their own lives—whether those people are West Point cadets going through grueling initiation rituals, a young national spelling bee champion, or teachers working in some of the toughest schools in the country. By sharing these real-life examples, Duckworth shows us how her formula of passion, practice, and persistence can lead to success.
Check out this book and let us know what you think. Share with us on Twitter and follow us @Cydcor.
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
As an entrepreneur without a set work schedule, it can be hard to organize your week consistently. But organization is key to success. At Cydcor, we want you to enjoy your work and be successful at it, so here are some tips to go about getting your week organized and meeting your goals.
Schedule tomorrow today. The most successful leaders sit down at the end of their day and figure out what needs to be done the next day. Instead of thinking of nebulous goals—as in “This is what I need to do tomorrow, and I’ll try to get it done”—they use their calendar to schedule specific times to accomplish those tasks.
Know what times of day are best for you. If you’re the most creative early in the morning, it makes sense to stick to rituals that require a novel approach in the morning. If, on the other hand, it takes you a while to get into work mode, take the time to get some exercise and get your brain in gear for the day. You’ll be the most successful at meeting your goals when your energy level is high and you feel the most confident, so schedule your most important tasks for that time of the day.
Work with the week’s natural rhythm. Research suggests that there is a natural energy flow related to the workweek. Instead of fighting it, go with that flow for maximum productivity. On Monday, instead of having that big team meeting, schedule low-demand tasks. Set your goals, plan your appointments and organize your office. On Tuesday and Wednesday, during the peak of energy, take on the most difficult projects, brainstorm, and write. On Thursday, hold meetings as energy begins to ebb. Then, on Friday, when energy level is lowest, do your long-term planning, relationship building, and other open-ended projects.
Make time for creative tasks. Jeremiah Dillon, head of product marketing at Google Apps for Work, suggests that you build “Make Time” -which is the time to implement your creative processes- into your calendar. Make Time is critical when you’re doing creative tasks or doing some serious thinking before you start building. It’s as important as any meeting or sales call. Be sure to enter those Make Time blocks in your calendar so your colleagues don’t disturb you during this process.
Use the right tools to get organized. The calendar associated with your email client can be your best friend. Software like Evernote can be used for “brain dumps,” and help you set your annual, quarterly, and weekly goals. Use Google Keep, Asana, or Wunderlist for your to-do list; it feels great to check off items that have been accomplished.
What tips do you have for organizing your workweek? Share them with Cydcor on Twitter @Cydcor.
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services located in Agoura Hills, CA. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
One of the keys to being a successful sales professional is being great at the art of conversation. But being a good conversationalist is not something that comes naturally to everyone, even the most extroverted people in the world. There are some special conversational considerations for working in sales. Here are a few tips from Cydcor staff on how to master the art of sales-oriented conversation.
Learn more about Cydcor by checking out our profile on CrunchBase: https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/cydcor
Start by building rapport. Make your prospect feel at ease with a little bit of small talk. You want your customer to feel you’re likable, which will make them more inclined to listen to you.
Match your prospect’s energy level. If your customer seems calm and cool, don’t bowl them over with aggressive enthusiasm. However, if your prospect seems like a more energetic type, then match their energy with yours. That way, you’re likely to create a better connection that can lead to a sale.
Ask questions. Find out what kind of aspirations your customer has or any frustrations with your competitor’s product or service. By doing so, you’ll be able to find ways to show your customer that your product is the best.
Ease into the sales pitch. Your prospect is much more likely to respond positively if you don’t just jump into “buy my product or service” mode. You’ll want to make your pitch with solid facts and an appeal to your customer’s aspirations and needs.
Listen. It’s tempting to stop listening before a prospect finishes speaking. You want to figure out a rebuttal to their “no.” But that’s not how you make a sale. But by listening well and doing some gentle probing, you’ll get to know what goals and needs your customer has.
Be sincere. Nobody likes a phony, and almost everyone can tell when someone is bluffing. Be yourself, and remember that you don’t have to agree with every single thing the customer says. Instead, try introducing one or two different points of view into the conversation; it’ll be more fun for both you and your prospect.
Don’t be obsessed with the sale. Have you ever been to a car dealership or a store and encountered a pushy salesperson that wouldn’t back off until you either bought a product or walked out the door? Don’t be that person. “Hard sell” tactics are a turn-off to most prospects. Instead, keep sharing information and appealing to their needs and wants.
Expect nothing, but be prepared for everything. Sales is a great and potentially quite lucrative profession, but it takes some time to become a real expert at it. Be patient with yourself and continue developing your unique skills to master the art of conversation—and conversion.
What tips would you give your teammates for mastering the art of sales conversation? Please share them in the comments. For additional blogs from Cydcor, be sure to check out https://www.cydcor.com/media.
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services located in Agoura Hills, CA. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
As an entrepreneur without a set schedule, it may be hard to put together a routine to keep you in the habit of efficiency and productivity. Here are seven tips from top entrepreneurs on how they structure their days.
Start early
Most entrepreneurs start their day early in the morning. Doing so gives them time to attend to personal routines such as exercise, meditation, or reading the news. It also allows you time to ease into your day, which will make you more productive and happier in the long run.
Eat a good breakfast
A good breakfast doesn’t necessarily have to be a huge production number. In fact, you can even prepare parts of your breakfast over the weekend: Boil some eggs the day before you begin your week and pull them out of the refrigerator in the morning for a quick protein boost. Buy quick-cooking oatmeal that you can microwave in just a few minutes, and stay stocked up on fresh fruit, which makes a great addition to any breakfast.
Exercise daily
Exercise gets your blood flowing and can stimulate your creativity. You can make time for your exercise routine in the morning, take a lunch break to go for a walk or do some yoga, or hit the gym in the evening for a good workout. Getting and staying fit will give you the energy and stamina you need to build your business.
Plan ahead
Take time at the beginning of your day to plan your activities. Set three most important things to accomplish and be sure that your day includes time to accomplish those tasks. Schedule your creative work, exercise, and meetings around the hours that you perform best at those tasks. It might not be a bad idea to also schedule time for skill development.
Visualize future achievements
One of the best ways to help yourself become successful is to decide what “successful” means for you and spend time visualizing yourself achieving not just that level of success, but even greater achievements as well.
Don’t forget family time
It’s easy to get caught up in the mentality that you have to work constantly, but it’s crucial to take the time to sit down and have dinner with your family. If you don’t have family nearby, use that time to do things you like to do, whether it’s walking your dog or playing with your cat, watching a movie, or going to happy hour with a group of friends.
“Unplug” at night
Put away your phone, laptop, or tablet at least half an hour before you plan to go to bed, then keep all those devices away from you—and on silent—while you’re sleeping. Disconnecting from your business and social media will ensure that you have more restful sleep, which will leave you feeling refreshed when you wake up in the morning.
What routines do you use to stay focused and efficient throughout the day? Please share your tips in the comments!
For additional blogs from Cydcor, be sure to check out https://www.cydcor.com/media.
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services located in Agoura Hills, CA. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
About Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck
Stanford University psychologist Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., did decades of research on gifted children and adults and discovered a simple but groundbreaking idea: the power of mindset. A mindset is either fixed or growth-oriented; if you have a fixed mindset, you believe you have certain innate talents or weaknesses that can’t be changed. On the other hand, if you have a growth mindset, you believe that abilities can be developed through learning and hard work.
Mindset shows how to use a growth mindset to foster great accomplishments in yourself and in your direct reports.
Why Cydcor Recommends This Book
It gives you the opportunity to explore your own mindset: Do you have a fixed mindset or a growth mindset? It also gives you the tools to adopt a growth mindset and avoid the trap of a “false growth mindset.”
Mindset can also help you understand that you’re not necessarily born with certain talents, but they can be learned. Do you think you’re naturally bad at math? Maybe you’ve been told that so many times you believe it. The truth is that it’s possible to learn and excel at any task if you take the time to develop your skills.
A growth mindset can also help you love what you do, increase your sense of success and fulfillment, and even improve your relationships with other people, whether those individuals are your colleagues, your friends, or your family.
Our Favorite Part
In this new edition of Mindset, Dweck introduces the “false growth mindset” and guides people toward adopting a deeper, truer growth mindset. Cydcor encourages its employees to adopt a growth mindset and break out of self-limiting thought patterns.
This is a great read for managers and mentors because it expands the mindset concept beyond the individual to corporate culture and other groups. This crucial update will help supervisors to motivate those they lead, and to transform their lives at work and at home.
Mindset is well organized and easy to read. It’s serious but provides practical information on how to cultivate a growth mindset.
Our team members are continually reminded to improve their professional development and keep growing. Learn how you can join the Cydcor team on CareerBuilder!
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
Everybody wants to be successful, but not everybody is. What’s the difference between those who achieve success in their field and those who don’t? It all begins with success-oriented beliefs.
Here are some beliefs from Cydcor that the most successful people hold. If you incorporate them into your life, you will go far toward achieving success in your career.
“I create my own future.”
You are the agent of your success. If you feel you’re at the mercy of others’ actions or you rely on others to create the path to success, it will show in your behavior. If you believe in your heart that you are responsible for your own future and take actions that speak to that, you’ll achieve success.
“I’m grateful for what I have.”
It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that what you already have in life is not enough, especially if you’re struggling to meet your personal and professional goals. Successful people take time to appreciate the good things in their lives, no matter how small or simple. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude, and that will help you achieve your goals.
“It’s okay to fail.”
All successful people have had failures. The difference between successful and unsuccessful people is that successful people don’t give up. They learn from their failures, pick themselves up, and move on with greater wisdom and determination.
“I’m willing to take big risks.”
Success is difficult to achieve if you’re afraid to go beyond your comfort zone. Great risk brings great reward. Set a really lofty goal for yourself. Try a new method of interacting with potential customers. Learn about and practice some of the keys to professional success.
“I live in the present.”
When you’re caught up in rehashing past mistakes or obsessing over what you hope to achieve in the future, you’re not being in the moment with your customers or team. If you’re mentally present, you’ll listen better and go farther toward achieving your goals.
“I focus on what matters.”
It’s tempting to spend time checking your phone or getting distracted by office chatter, but that’s not going to get you to success. Set a few goals and a timeline for achieving them, then make a commitment to spend your time working toward that. Use the phone or water cooler time as a reward for working diligently toward your goals.
“I love my job!”
Every job has elements that are less than fun. But if you embrace the good things about your job, you’ll cultivate an attitude of success. Even when your work is hard and you’re feeling disheartened, remember there was something about this job that appealed to you when you first started; focus on that.
In short, “your attitude determines your altitude,” as the old saying goes. If you focus on the positive, set challenging goals, and understand that you are the one responsible for your success, you will be able to achieve more than you ever imagined.
For additional blogs from Cydcor, be sure to check out https://www.cydcor.com/media.
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services located in Agoura Hills, CA. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
At the heart of everything we do at Cydcor is a commitment to first-class customer service. There are lots of tips out there on how to provide a great experience to your clients, but ultimately, your ability to give excellent customer service comes down to the following seven pieces of advice.
Be real
When you bring your own personality to a conversation, it shows. Your customer will trust you more if he or she can sense that you are doing more than providing robotic, scripted answers.
Listen actively and patiently
Most people don’t get to the true nature of their issue until they’ve been talking for a while. Don’t start formulating your answer when the customer is halfway through her sentence. Instead, wait until they’re finished speaking—and then repeat what they said back to them. This will allow them to clarify anything you may have misunderstood. Active Listening is key to improving communication skills.
Have a deep knowledge of your product
Nothing makes a customer happier than a representative who is able to explain everything about the product being offered. This will allow you to speak confidently about your product even if she or he goes “off the script” of standard questions. It will also amplify your persuasion skills.
Say what you mean and mean what you say
Simple conversation and small talk can get you places with customer service. When you are speaking with a customer, make sure he understands what you’re saying. Avoid jargon. Remember what you’ve promised—take notes right after your conversation—and be sure to follow through.
Work on your acting skills
Even after dozens of “nos,” you need to be able to greet each customer with a smile and an enthusiastic attitude. If you’re feeling a bit deflated, give yourself a personal pep talk and put on your game face for each customer you greet. You’ll be much more likely to get that “yes” you’re hoping for.
Use positive language
Instead of saying “I can’t” and giving reasons why you can’t—which a customer may view as making excuses—explain what you can do for them and when you’re going to do it. Customers react much more positively when they get specific answers and a concrete time frame for when their request will be fulfilled.
Be willing to learn
Watch a more experienced representative in action and see what he or she does to make customers happy. Enroll in professional development classes. Read books on the product you’re representing or on the art of excellent customer service. Willingness to learn will not only help you make your customers happy, it will get you noticed by your mentors and give you more opportunities to grow in your career.
For additional blogs from Cydcor, be sure to check out https://www.cydcor.com/media.
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services located in Agoura Hills, CA. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
About Co-Active Leadership: Five Ways to Lead by Karen and Henry Kimsey-House
Karen and Henry Kimsey-House, authors of Co-Active Coaching: Changing Business, Transforming Lives, bring their co-active model to leadership development. Their five-dimensional approach recognizes that leadership needs to be fluid and flexible, and that current top-down, one-dimensional models are outdated.
The Kimsey-House duo coined the term “co-active” to describe three elements interacting together: According to the book, “co” represents the relational and receptive aspects of leadership; “active” represents the action-oriented aspects; and the hyphen shows the connection between those aspects.
Why Cydcor Recommends This Book
In just 128 pages, Co-Active Leadership packs a lot of great content into an easy-to-read format. The authors list five leadership dimensions, describing each one and how it relates to the co-active model. They also give tips on how aspiring leaders can best use the various leadership styles to accomplish their goals.
This book not only guides readers into becoming transformational leaders from the inside out, it helps them to understand how the co-active model of leadership is a perfect fit for today’s collaboration-oriented and egalitarian work environment.
Our Favorite Part
Co-Active Leadership’s primary premise is that anyone can be a leader. Cydcor also believes that everyone has the capacity to lead. This book encourages readers to think about their actions throughout the day and recognize that almost all of them are manifestations of one of the five dimensions of leadership—the Leader Within, the Leader Behind, the Leader in Front, the Leader Beside, and the Leader in the Field.
Each of the dimensions is defined and illustrated in its own chapter so readers can gain a full understanding of their preferred leadership style and what they can do to grow in their own capacity for multi-dimensional leadership.
Check out this book and let us know what you think. Share with us on Twitter and follow us @Cydcor.
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
Visit Cydcor Media for additional business blogs from the leader in outsourced sales services.
Confidence breeds success. A healthy self-esteem and positive outlook on your accomplishments and talents does wonders for your career. Confidence is a cornerstone in what makes a leader. If you’ve ever suffered from low self-esteem, you know exactly how hard it is to function as your own worst enemy, and all too often those self-fulfilling prophecies become a reality with dire consequences.
Here are five reasons why confident people succeed:
They surround themselves with positive people.
The people you bring into your inner circle will impact both your personal and professional lives. Successful people have peers, mentors and teammates that boost their confidence, not take away from it. If you know a “Hoover person” — someone who sucks all the positivity out of life—reevaluate your relationship and end it if need be. You don’t have time for people who want to see you fail.
They invest in themselves.
Learning never ends, and neither does fine tuning your skills. Confident people invest in their own growth, both personally and professionally. If there is a skill you want to improve to strengthen your business (marketing, developing, sales), invest in books, seminars, classes, anything that will keep your mind sharp and your skills ahead of the game.
They are their own biggest competitor.
Competition is healthy, but not when you take it personally. Successful, confident people know that someone else’s achievements do not negate their own. Be happy for those who do well and strive for the same professional outcomes. When you meet your goals, set new ones. Continued success comes from beating your own records—not anyone else’s.
They know their weaknesses—and accept them.
Believe it or not, understanding and embracing your weaknesses boosts your confidence. Accept that you will never be perfect and you will be able to focus on your strengths and your accomplishments. Successful people don’t dwell on the “what-ifs” or the obstacles because it’s pointless. Your weaknesses do not dictate your prosperity; your strengths do.
It’s all in their heads.
The term “fake it until you make it” actually holds some weight. Confident people never let others see them sweat, especially when they aren’t at their best. Positive thinking and self-talk are highly effective in changing your mood and your confidence. “I’ve got this.” “I can do this.” “People want to hear what I have to say.” Keep telling yourself these things and you will eventually believe them. Remember: perception is reality.
What other areas of business require confidence? Share with Cydcor on Twitter! https://twitter.com/cydcor
We are Cydcor, the recognized leader in outsourced sales services located in Agoura Hills, CA. From our humble beginnings as an independent sales company based in Canada to garnering a reputation as the global leader in outsourced sales, Cydcor has come a long way. We’ve done this by having exceptional sales professionals and providing our clients with proven sales and marketing strategies that get results.
R&R 2016 kicks off in Las Vegas, NV this weekend! In accordance with this amazing event, Cydcor is holding a caption contest. To enter, leave a comment on the contest photo posted by Cydcor on Facebook or Instagram, answering the question “What made you bet on yourself and go all in?" from October 4th (3:00PM PST) until Saturday, October 8th (12:00 PM PST). Participants will automatically be entered for a chance to win $250 cash awarded on site.
There will be one winner selected by Cydcor, announced via Cydcor’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/CydcorLLC), Cydcor’s Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/cydcor/), and on Cydcor’s Twitter (https://twitter.com/cydcor) on Saturday, October 8th any time after 12:00PM PST and no later than 11:59 PM PST.
Here’s to hoping luck is with you during R&R 2016 in Las Vegas, NV!
Terms and Conditions (Facebook)
Caption the Facebook post "What made you bet on yourself and go all in?" Valid entries are comments that caption the related post on Cydcor’s Facebook or Instagram page. Entries are valid anytime from Tuesday, October 4th (3:00PM PST) until Saturday, October 8th (12:00 PM PST) and you will be automatically entered in the R&R Caption contest for a chance to win $250 cash. To be eligible, entrants must be (i) at least 18 years of age and (ii) a member or affiliate of a Cydcor independent corporate licensee (Cydcor employees not eligible). Multiple submissions per participant are allowed. Profanity or inappropriate language or images, as determined by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, will be disqualified. There will be one winner selected by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, and announced via Cydcor’s Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/CydcorLLC?ref=hl) as well as on Cydcor’s Instagram (@Cydcor), and on Cydcor’s Twitter (@Cydcor) on Saturday, October 8th any time after 12:00PM PST and no later than 11:59 PM PST. This promotional offer is not intended to create a partnership, joint venture, co-ownership or other association between Cydcor and the participant.
This promotion does not have a connection with Facebook in any way and is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. By entering the contest, participants agree to fully release Facebook from any and all liability.
Terms and Conditions (Instagram)
Post a caption on Instagram or Facebook answering “What made you bet on yourself and go all in?” for a chance to win $250 cash. Entries are valid anytime from Tuesday, October 4th (3:00PM PST) until Saturday, October 8th (12:00 PM PST) and you will be automatically entered in the R&R Caption contest for a chance to win $250 cash. To be eligible, entrants must be (i) at least 18 years of age and (ii) a member or affiliate of a Cydcor independent corporate licensee (Cydcor employees not eligible). Multiple submissions per participant are allowed. Profanity or inappropriate language or images, as determined by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, will be disqualified. There will be one winner selected by Cydcor, in its sole discretion, and announced via Cydcor’s Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/CydcorLLC?ref=hl) as well as on Cydcor’s Instagram (@Cydcor), and on Cydcor’s Twitter (@Cydcor) on Saturday, October 8th any time after 12:00PM PST and no later than 11:59 PM PST. This promotional offer is not intended to create a partnership, joint venture, co-ownership or other association between Cydcor and the participant.
This promotion does not have a connection with Instagram, Inc. in any way and is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. By entering the contest, participants agree to fully release Instagram from any and all liability, and agree to Instagram’s terms of use.
Every 3 minutes, a child is born with a cleft lip or cleft palate. Operation Smile is one of the largest volunteer-based medical charities providing cleft surgeries to these children, free of charge. Through a partnership with Cydcor, hundreds of dollars have been raised to benefit this amazing children’s medical non-profit.
“Operation Smile is about more than just one child’s before and after,” said Dr. William Magee, Jr., Operation Smile Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer. “It’s using that child as a metaphor, and that metaphor essentially says, “Involvement can create change.”
“One surgery costs as little as $240. Operation Smile heals thousands of children each year. Cydcor has used its reach to introduce how individuals can help somebody else who may be half way around the globe. These individuals may never remember our name, but will never ever forget our kindness."- Dr. Magee shared.
Cydcor has partnered with Operation Smile since 2010. Cydcor has changed thousands of lives with a goal of raising more than $1 million dollars.
“Cydcor and Operation Smile fit together. We take care of children; people at Cydcor take care of people,” said Kathy Magee, Operation Smile Co-Founder and President. “Can you imagine Cydcor people not being able to smile at their clients? They’re showing their social responsibility by being a part of a charity that makes changes everywhere. You can make all the money you want in the world, but when you start to care about people, it really comes back to you tenfold.”
Vanessa Castaneda McCaffrey, an Operation Smile Ambassador for Cydcor said, “Philanthropy is a part of who I am, and one of the main reasons why I wanted to be a part of Cydcor. I think this is a platform for us to work with our offices and show them that the skills that we teach them to build their companies can be used in different arenas that can make a bigger impact around the world.”
“We have an expression in our business that if someone doesn’t have a smile, give them one of yours, and being able to change their lives and help them get the confidence to smile and live a happy life—it really touches your heart,” added Jim Rothermel, an Operation Smile Ambassador for Cydcor.
The annual “Day of Smiles” is Cydcor’s largest fundraising event. This is a day where Cydcor and its network of sales offices around the US, Canada and the UK, go door-to-door fundraising for Operation Smile.
Eric Chapman, an Operation Smile Ambassador for Cydcor, spoke about his experience participating in the Day of Smiles. “On Day of Smiles, I was standing on the side of the road. I was collecting money, and I was a little anxious about it ’cause I thought a lot of people probably wouldn’t want to give money. But instead, I was overwhelmed by how many people did, and I had people roll down their windows and tell me that they had been on a mission, and that Operation Smile was something very important to them.”
Cydcor and the sales offices have funded thousands of cleft surgeries, changing lives around the world.
“I got the opportunity to go to Guatemala last year: Absolutely amazing experience. It was sometimes heartbreaking, it was very emotional, but ultimately to see the kids when they’re healed and they’re happy … I mean, you can’t put a price tag on that,” said Ed Cunliffe, who attended the Cydcor and Operation Smile funded mission trip to Guatemala in 2015.
George Papalexandratos, another Operation Smile Ambassador for Cydcor added, “Our business is all about giving back, and it’s about becoming a “servant leader” to your people, and that’s exactly what we’re doing with Operation Smile: We’re developing our people and the future of this company to be a servant leader in our business, and a servant leader to our community.”
“The world needs businesses like Cydcor. They have energy, they have enthusiasm, and this is a group that really can come behind us,” said Kathy Magee.
“If you ask any one of the Cydcor representatives that went on trips with us, whether it be to Brazil or to Mexico or wherever, they’ll come back and tell you that they never realized how lucky they were. They never realized how much they could help, and that also changed their life. It has given them a different perspective,” concluded Dr. William Magee.
“Those individuals in Cydcor that have gone out of their way, and whether it’s door to door or whether it’s through corporations, to introduce Operation Smile—they’re the ones that have really created change, and it’s a beginning of getting our communities more stabilized and more understanding what the simple truth in life is, and that is to care about other people.”
Cydcor has recently raised enough funds for a 7th medical mission in benefit of Operation Smile, to take place in a location to be determined.
For additional information about Operation Smile and to learn how you can help, visit http://www.operationsmile.org/
For additional information about Cydcor, visit https://www.cydcor.com
Cydcor was founded in 1994 on a simple yet powerful principle: people still want to buy from people they trust. While much of the business world in the 1990s was moving toward automation and call centers, the founders of Cydcor recognized that something essential was being lost. Technology could handle transactions, but it could not replace trust, loyalty, or the personal connection that uniquely comes from a face-to-face conversation. That insight shaped the company’s mission and continues to guide it today. Headquartered in Agoura Hills, California, Cydcor partners with Fortune 500 leaders as well as emerging brands across the U.S. and Canada. The company specializes in outsourced, in-person customer acquisition through a network of independently owned sales companies across North America. These companies operate in the residential, retail, business-to-business, and event services channels, creating flexible and scalable solutions to meet each client’s needs. Some clients rely on Cydcor to complement their existing sales force, while others count on Cydcor’s network as their exclusive customer acquisition channel. In both cases, the goal remains the same: driving measurable growth through meaningful interactions.
What sets Cydcor apart is its ability to combine the timeless art of relationship building with modern systems and accountability. While independent sales companies focus on customer engagement, Cydcor provides the backbone that makes scaling possible. This includes compliance oversight, detailed reporting, operational systems, and performance tracking that give clients confidence in both the process and the results. The approach has earned the trust of top Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 brands that turn to Cydcor when they need more than just numbers on a spreadsheet. They need real conversations, genuine connections, and long-term customer relationships.
Under the leadership of Vera Quinn, President and CEO, Cydcor continues to evolve without losing sight of its core belief: that business has always been built on human connection. In a marketplace where digital noise grows louder every day, Cydcor proves that face-to-face sales remain not only relevant but essential. It is a model that honors tradition while embracing innovation, ensuring clients have the reach, structure, and results they need to grow.
In conversation with Vera Quinn, President and CEO of Cydcor
“We see technology as a way to make the in-person experience even better. Our platforms, sales tools, and data systems deliver the information clients need—precisely when they need it."
– Vera Quinn, Cydcor President and CEO
Cydcor has been a trusted partner to Fortune 500 companies for more than three decades. How has your face-to-face approach helped brands stay competitive in today’s automated world?
In today’s automated world, the value of human connection and quality continues to rise because people’s needs are not one-size-fits-all. Brands spend heavily trying to break through the noise, but nothing cuts through like a real conversation. When the field teams engage face-to-face, whether in a business, at a retail store, at someone’s doorstep, or an event, it creates authenticity, accountability, and connection. That personal approach builds trust and loyalty, delivering long-term growth instead of one-off transactions. There is no substitute for the clarity and trust that comes for genuine two-way conversation.
You work across very different verticals—B2B, retail, residential, and event services. How do you customize each campaign?
It starts with listening. We take the time to understand what matters most to the client—what outcomes they want to achieve and who they’re trying to reach. From there, we apply proven strategies while piloting and refining until the approach is right. We don’t believe in copy-and-paste campaigns; every engagement is designed around the client’s goals, with a clear commitment to measurable results.
We’re also highly nimble. Offers, hours, and territory plans can shift quickly, and we adjust with speed, going where customers are and where opportunities exist. For example, in retail environments customers may need product education at the point of sale, while in B2B settings the focus is often on efficiency and ROI. Each campaign is tailored to those realities, ensuring both clients and customers feel understood.
Leading companies often credit Cydcor with helping them expand into new markets. How does your model drive that kind of growth?
We help clients grow because we’re built to scale responsibly. The companies in our network are locally run by entrepreneurs who care deeply about performance and quality. That ownership mindset allows us to move fast when a client wants to expand while still delivering consistency and quality. We’re able to test, adapt, and ramp with speed—without sacrificing the fundamentals. Because we take such pride in the brands we represent, our clients trust us to deliver with consistency and care.
Cydcor works with a network of independently owned sales companies. How does that support innovation and client outcomes?
Entrepreneurs think differently. They’re invested in doing things right because it’s their business. That ownership mindset creates a ripple effect: higher standards, better execution, and more accountability. When a client partners with us, they’re not just accessing sales teams; they’re tapping into a culture of ownership and drive. That translates into stronger performance in the field and sustained results for the brand.
You’ve been recognized as a Great Place to Work. How do culture and leadership play into your business success?
Our culture is built on the belief that people succeed when they help others succeed. That philosophy drives how we lead, how we collaborate, and how we show up for our clients and each other. Our values aren’t just words on a wall. They act as our constitution, guiding decisions and holding us accountable. Because of that, leadership at Cydcor isn’t about hierarchy; it’s about creating an environment where people support one another, push for excellence, and celebrate shared wins. That’s why our culture has become a competitive advantage and why clients trust us to represent their brands with pride.
Technology is clearly important to your operations. How do you balance that with the human side of your business?
We see technology as a way to make the in-person experience even better. Our platforms, sales tools, and data systems deliver the information clients need—precisely when they need it. AI is making our systems smarter and faster, improving everything from compliance to reporting to campaign insights. At the end of the day, technology is there to empower people. It supports the work; it doesn’t replace the human connection that makes in-person sales powerful.
What’s next for Cydcor? Any exciting plans on the horizon?
Cydcor is entering an exciting new chapter of growth. We’re expanding into new industries while continuing to strengthen relationships with the Fortune 500 and emerging brands we already serve. A big part of that future is leveraging AI and advanced platforms to enhance both the client and customer experience, delivering faster insights, sharper tools, and more seamless interactions. Driving results through the power of people remains constant, but the ways we deliver on it are evolving quickly. We also see opportunities in industries undergoing disruption, or where customers are clamoring for personalized solutions where face-to-face engagement can help brands establish trust and drive growth. That’s where our model truly shines.
Meet the leader behind the success of Cydcor
Vera Quinn, President and CEO of Cydcor, is recognized for her leadership and the business impact she continues to drive. She began her career entry-level in the field. Then seizing an opportunity at Cydcor, and rose through nearly every level of the organization, a path that gives her unmatched perspective on building teams, growing leaders, and scaling a business with integrity.
Vera has been honored as CEO of the Year by the Los Angeles Business Journal, and under her leadership, Cydcor was recently named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America. She is known for her ability to develop leaders by instilling confidence, clarity, and accountability. Today, she continues to guide Cydcor’s growth with a clear mission: when people succeed together, businesses and communities thrive.
“We don’t believe in copy-and-paste campaigns; every engagement is designed around the client’s goals, with a clear commitment to measurable results.”
– Vera Quinn, Cydcor President and CEO
Agoura Hills, California--(Newsfile Corp. - September 3, 2025) - Cydcor is proud to announce that CEO Vera Quinn has been recognized as the CEO of the Year Honoree at the Los Angeles Business Journal's 2025 Valley Women's Leadership Symposium & Awards. The program spotlights influential leaders across the San Fernando Valley and greater Los Angeles who are driving innovation, cultivating inclusive workplaces, and shaping the future of business.
Under Quinn's guidance, Cydcor has become a company synonymous with a culture of growth, performance, and community. Highlights of her leadership include:
"It is an incredible honor to be named a CEO Honoree among so many remarkable women," said Quinn. "I am proud to represent a community of women leaders who are inspiring the next generation and driving meaningful change in business."
For more on Cydcor's culture and Quinn's leadership, visit: A Culture Strategy of Growth, Performance, and Community.
About Cydcor
For more than 30 years, Cydcor has provided outsourced sales solutions to Fortune 500 and emerging companies. By combining the power of relationship-driven sales with innovative strategies, Cydcor helps its clients acquire, grow, and retain customers at scale. Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Agoura Hills, California, Cydcor remains privately held.
Visit: www.cydcor.com.
For information contact:
media@cydcor.com
805-277-5500
Agoura Hills, California--(Newsfile Corp. - August 11, 2025) - For the 13th time, Cydcor has earned a place on the Los Angeles Business Journal's (LABJ) Best Places to Work in Los Angeles list. This recognition, determined by detailed employee surveys conducted by Workforce Research Group, celebrates Cydcor's enduring commitment to a collaborative, employee-centric workplace culture. As a leader in outsourced sales and customer acquisition services, Cydcor continues to set the bar for what it means to build a workplace where people grow, thrive, and find purpose.
Recognition Driven by Employee Survey and Culture
Hundreds of small, medium, and large companies across LA participated in the 2025 LABJ survey. The process evaluates workplace policies and practices, with 80% of the score drawn from confidential employee feedback. The result: a curated list of LA's top employers, with Cydcor standing out for its consistent leadership, supportive environment, career development focus, and the company's foundation lies in its culture and core values.
A 13-Year Legacy of Workplace Excellence
"We are very intentional about building both a high-performing culture and a high-performing business," said Vera Quinn, CEO of Cydcor. "We want Cydcor to be a place where people are inspired to grow, feel proud of their work, and know they're part of something meaningful."
Cydcor uses the feedback collected through the survey process not only to celebrate what's working but also to highlight areas where the company and departments can improve. This ensures continuous growth, adaptation, and accountability across all levels of the organization. Cydcor fosters a culture where people helping people isn't just a saying, it's the way business is done.
"Consistency matters. Being recognized year after year is a result of our people showing up for one another, staying grounded in our values, and always aiming to get better," Quinn added.
What Makes Cydcor a Top Employer
Cydcor continues to set the standard in creating an environment where employees feel seen, supported, and challenged to achieve their potential.
How does Cydcor continue to earn recognition? Here are just a few reasons:
Explore Career Opportunities at Cydcor
Want to join one of LA's top workplaces?
Explore career opportunities at Cydcor today: www.cydcor.com/careers
About Cydcor
For three decades and counting, Cydcor has provided award-winning customer acquisition solutions to Fortune 500 and emerging companies in a wide range of industries. Cydcor has mastered the power of building relationships with consumers while harnessing technology to acquire, grow, and retain customers for its clients. Founded in 1994, the privately held company is based in Agoura Hills, California. For more information, visit www.cydcor.com.
Media Contact
Gail Michalak
805-277-5525
gmichalak@cydcor.com