Open to the world
«In the relationship with clients it’s important to listen, or better still, to heed. Understand their needs, be empathetic and support their choices», says Melissa D'Innella, export sales manager at Schmid
Milanese, 25 years old, a U.S. passport holder. She speaks four languages: Italian, English, French and Spanish. She did short work stints in Florida and France and has travelled extensively. At the age of 25, Melissa D’Innella, export sales manager at Schmid, represents the company’s new course. «To have lived in a multicultural environment, speaking several languages from a young age has helped me a lot. I’ve always been confronted to different situations. An experience that has enabled me to become open-minded».
Melissa, notwithstanding your young age, you have already maturated a significant experience…
«I graduated in linguistics for information and communication at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan. Thanks to my studies I cultivated my passion for foreign languages, also improving soft skills such as the ability to interact with others. After university, I had the opportunity to apply what I had learned working as a front office employee at Chanel for six months. Then I got a call from Schmid».
How was your first contact with the company?
«I worked at Schmid’s booth during the Lineapelle Milano trade show in September 2014, during which I had the opportunity to know the company, its story, its products, meeting straightaway many clients and people working in the industry. That is how my adventure with the company started. Initially as an employee of the U.S. Desk, assisting the company CEO, covering directly the American market. Then I also followed the British market jointly with an agent who assists our clients locally».
What surprised you with Schmid?
«Everyday there’s something new and stimulating to do. It’s a company that never stops, that forges ahead, it’s perfect for my character and my way of working. It’s a very productive atmosphere. But, it’s also very creative, I would describe it as “effervescent”. Right now, for example, we’re going to present the Trend Book in London and there’s great enthusiasm. In January we will be in the UK again and then in the States».
What do you like most about your work?
«Apart from the fact that I work in the fashion world (she asked while smiling)? Seriously, I like to interact with my work colleagues and our clients. We are not a manufacturing industrial company: our work is based entirely on human contacts, the knowledge of the product and of our clients’ needs, even when they don’t have clear ideas.
That is the real benchmark for a good sales manager. Know how to guide your client and advise him in his best interest (and the one of the company). It is a continuous exchange of opinions with colleagues and clients, which helps me improve day after day. I’m young and I’m very keen to learn. For these reasons, I believe to have a good chance of improving professionally and personally. Therefore, “continuous improvement” is not only a corporate motto, it’s the managerial style of this company».
