T2 has some of the brightest minds in the parking industry, and each employee owns a unique set of talents and experiences that help our customers succeed. We spoke with Rodney Carpenter, T2 Strategic Sales Executive, to learn more about his love for traveling and how he manages to stay locked in.

Meet Rodney Carpenter

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in East Chicago, Indiana. Growing up in this vibrant community greatly shaped my perspective and values.

What drew you to pursue a career in strategic sales, and what keeps you motivated in this role?

From a young age, people often joked that I would either become a politician or a salesperson, thanks to my charismatic personality. As I grew older, I naturally gravitated towards business management and sales, finding a true passion in the field. Over the past decade in my sales profession, what continues to drive me is the opportunity to build authentic relationships with my customers and coworkers and the excitement of achieving ambitious goals. The dynamic nature of sales keeps me motivated, as every day presents new challenges and opportunities for my success.

What has been one of your most rewarding sales successes at our company so far?

One of my most rewarding sales successes at our company occurred this year. Through a strong partnership with my business partner, I was able to surpass my sales quota for the first half of 2024, achieving 112% of my goal, while helping them reach their goal. This accomplishment has been incredibly motivating, and I am excited and determined to continue exceeding my targets for the entire year.

What skills or qualities do you think are essential for success in a strategic sales role?

Success in a strategic sales role hinge on several key skills and qualities. Excellent communication and listening skills are crucial for understanding and addressing client needs effectively. Accountability, honesty, and transparency build trust and foster strong relationships. Consistency and discipline are essential for maintaining performance and meeting goals. Being goal-oriented and motivated drives continuous improvement and achievement. Above all, prioritizing the customer’s best interests over personal gain ensures longterm success and satisfaction.

Have there been any mentors or experiences that have significantly shaped your career?

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have several mentors who have significantly shaped my professional journey. My fraternity brothers have been invaluable sources of guidance both personally and professionally. Additionally, Shi McGown has been a particularly influential mentor in the parking industry. As Vice President of T2 Customer Experience and Uni Sales — and mentor — her insights and support have been instrumental in my growth and success.

How do you collaborate with other teams or departments to drive success in your role?

In my role as a PARCS Sales Executive, collaboration with various departments is key to driving success. I view my role as a Sales Project Manager, coordinating closely with the Sales Engineering, Project Management, and Senior Leadership teams. Together, we ensure that all aspects of the sales process are seamlessly integrated and that final documents meet customer approval. This teamwork is essential for delivering exceptional results and achieving our goals.

What do you enjoy most about working with your current team and leadership?

What I enjoy most about working with my current team is the strong sense of team chemistry and the continuous motivation and encouragement we receive from our leadership. The collaborative spirit and supportive environment truly embody the idea that ‘teamwork makes the dream work,’ which makes achieving our goals both fulfilling and enjoyable.

What’s your approach to building and maintaining longterm relationships with customers?

My approach to building and maintaining longterm relationships with customers is grounded in authenticity and transparency. I make an effort to understand both the professional and personal aspects of my clients’ lives, which helps in fostering a genuine connection. Additionally, being transparent and honest in all interactions builds trust and credibility, ensuring a strong and lasting relationship.

Sales can be a demanding job—how do you balance your professional responsibilities with personal life?

Sales can indeed be demanding, but I manage to balance my professional responsibilities with my personal life by following a structured approach. I stay highly motivated by setting and pursuing ambitious goals, entering focused ‘locked-in’ periods where I work intensely to exceed my targets. After these periods, I make sure to take a few days of PTO to fully unplug and recharge. This cycle of intense focus followed by dedicated downtime helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance and sustain longterm productivity.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Do you have any hobbies or activities that help you unwind?

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling both domestically and internationally, as it allows me to explore new cultures and experiences. I’ve recently taken up golf and find it to be a great new hobby. Additionally, I cherish spending time with my family, nurturing my faith, and connecting with friends. These activities help me unwind and maintain a well-rounded, fulfilling life.

Is there anything your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?

My colleagues might be surprised to learn that I used to be a barber during college, and I still cut my own hair to this day. It’s a unique skill I’ve kept up over the years!

 

If you’re interested in a career with T2, check out our job postings.

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