CARO News

Careers in Science: Selling Like a Scientist

Posted on June 10, 2021

Are you a charismatic scientist looking to build a career in the scientific field, but not sure if the laboratory life is for you?   There are many laboratory job options available for curious and driven scientists that cater to a goal-oriented attitude, all the while providing the stimulation of non-stop learning and hypothesis-testing we all love.

One such option is a role as a sales representative for an analytical laboratory.  Now I know what many of you are thinking: “But I’m not a salesperson!”   Contrary to popular misconception, the life of a salesperson isn’t always about driving a hard bargain or pushing your service whether it is needed or not.   At CARO, our goal as salespeople is to find the right fit for the right clients, and to help them succeed in making the world safer and healthier.  To do this you need to first understand your clients and their projects (yay research!), so you can offer the best solution (put your hypothesis to the test!)

Still interested?

CARO’s Sales Manager Luba Svorinic is the prime example of a laboratory chemist who stepped out of her comfort zone to pursue a career as a Sales Scientist.  Over the past 6 years she has developed close relationships with many of CARO’s clients and provided opportunities for CARO’s chemists to work with some of the latest and greatest laboratory technology.  Luba is now building a sales team that will help her continue to offer value-added solutions to the environmental, food and cannabis testing industries in BC.

We caught up with Luba to understand more about her own experience working at CARO, what she looks for in new recruits, and any advice she has for anyone looking to build a career in Sales within the laboratory industry.

What Made You Choose a Sales Career at CARO?

It was clear to me from the very start that, as an employee-owned and operated organization, everyone is committed to the success of the company.  It is hard not to be drawn to a team that is invested in what they do; the hard work they put in comes from a genuine desire to always raise the bar.  As CARO is a rapidly growing organization, I could also see opportunities for career growth in many divisions.

How Would You Describe CARO’s Workplace?

Considering how much laughter I hear daily; I would say it is a fun place. The social committee steps it up for every celebration (Holidays, milestones, etc.), and I especially like that there are always treats around.  Our team definitely has chemistry!

What Skills Do You Need for a Career in Sales?

An independent and driven individual looking to make a difference! As new tasks come up all the time, and sometimes unexpectedly, the ability to adapt and manage multiple deadlines is a must. Selling ethically is very important to me, which means being transparent and accountable.  I am always on the lookout for a true professional who keeps their word.

What Can a Newly Employed Sales Specialist Expect from CARO?

As an organization filled with high-performing individuals, you can expect many opportunities to unleash your creativity and be challenged with setting and achieving your goals, both personal and professional.  Although much of your day-to-day work is done independently, you can expect to be supported by an approachable and charismatic team.

What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a Sales Specialist?

It is never the same, so defining a “typical day” is a real challenge, but this is what makes the job as a salesperson fun!  We are talking to clients all the time, which means we are always learning and engaged with the latest and most interesting industry news. When we’re not only talking to clients, we are also looking for people who COULD be clients… and talking to them too! We take what we learn from all this talking and use it to build service packages that will help our clients solve problems or bring home big projects.  One thing I look forward to doing again (once the pandemic is over) is travelling to visit clients and attend conferences; showcasing our company in person is often the best part of the job!

If You Could Tell the Entire Industry ONE Thing About CARO, What Would It Be?

The ability of CARO to adapt to change and use modern solutions to address complex challenges.  We don’t stop until we find a solution to a problem.

What Is Your Biggest Motivation Outside the Workplace?

Playing with my daughter and admiring the world through the eyes of a toddler.  Chasing her around is exhausting, but she is constantly reminding me to take time to really appreciate the world around us.  She is currently fascinated with growing tall enough to touch the sky – now that’s ambition I can look up to!

Luba is currently looking for people to join her sales team (aka sales representatives) to help CARO unlock opportunities across Western Canada and succeed in our mission to make the world safer and healthier. Check out our careers page to check out the current opportunities in sales, and for instructions on how to apply.

If Sales still isn’t your thing but you think CARO sounds like an awesome place to work (hint: it is!), you can find a list of all our available positions here.

We look forward to meeting you!