Imagine: It’s a sunny New York morning, and you’re lacing up your running shoes for a casual 5K. Around you is a small but energetic group of women in eCommerce—some familiar faces, many complete strangers. Among these runners is Sasha Wendin, a growth consultant at Shopify, whose speed and enthusiasm quickly catch your eye.
That’s exactly how Cassandra Cross, Director of Sales & Strategic Partnerships at Cronix, met our latest guest on the How She Got Here podcast, Sasha Wendin, a growth consultant at Shopify.
In the latest, fourth episode of HSGH, Cass sits down with go-getter Sasha Wendin, from the UK, who landed squarely in the heart of the Big Apple’s martech scene at Shopify. In addition to being a goldmine for career advice and an insider’s view into eCommerce strategies and tech scene, it’s a story of entering (and thriving in) unfamiliar territory.
Let’s give you a sneak peek into the conversation! Read on to learn how new experiences and leaps of faith can become milestones on the road to success.
From Data Analytics to Sales as a Career Evolution
Sasha’s story begins across the pond in the UK, where her career was born in data analytics. Although she thrived in dissecting numbers, spreadsheets, and consumer insights, Sasha soon realized she longed for more human connection.
Her super-friendly, extroverted personality needed an opportunity to shine.
Her pivot from a behind-the-scenes data role to a frontline sales position became the catalyst that brought her to New York City, USA.
Faced with a new country and a blank slate, she embraced the city’s hustle, proving that stepping outside your comfort zone can open unexpected doors, both professionally and personally.
Sasha Wendin’s Journey in eCommerce
In this episode, Sasha offers invaluable insights into tech sales and navigating eCommerce success. She started in an entry-level sales role as a Sales Development Representative (SDR). She learned the ropes at lightning speed, mastering tools like Salesforce and nurturing authentic relationships with clients.
Thanks to her previous experience, she applied data analytics to sales. Her approach defies the “spray and pray” method of outreach, emphasizing thoughtful, data-driven communication that meets each merchant’s unique needs. Now, at Shopify, she’s working with established brands, helping them achieve growth using a platform she genuinely believes in!
The Role of Mentorship in Professional Growth
Sasha’s journey highlights the importance of strong mentors, role models, and leaders, particularly women who lift other women up.
Talking about mentorship in career growth, she shares stories of her female managers who offered guidance, fueled her ambition, and showed her what supportive leadership looks like. This is what gave her a clearer vision of her own career trajectory and a renewed sense of purpose in helping others find their path.
Why Moving to New York Transformed Her Career
Another highlight of the episode is how Sasha established herself in the whirlwind that is New York. She’s honest about the bumps in the road, the initial loneliness, the daunting expense of the city, and the sheer hustle it takes to find “your people.”
But she stuck with it. By seeking out new friends, attending professional events with New York eCommerce professionals, and refusing to give up, Sasha turned the city into her personal launchpad for growth.
Building Meaningful Relationships in the Tech Industry
Throughout the conversation, Sasha emphasizes the power of building real, human connection.
It can include meeting future colleagues at industry conferences, bonding with fellow runners on a Westside Highway jog, or reaching out to potential mentors with genuine curiosity.
Relationships matter!
And let’s face it, we could all use a reminder that our next big break might come from simply saying “yes” to a chance encounter.
Sasha’s Experience at Shopify
While chatting with Cass, Sasha sheds light on what it’s like to work at Shopify, one of the world’s leading eCommerce platforms, and a partner of our Shopify development agency, Cronix.
Being a growth consultant, Sasha says Shopify sales techniques are a lot about understanding clients’ stories, digging into data to uncover opportunities, and truly believing in the product you’re selling.
From the interview process to her day-to-day tasks, Sasha loves everything about the company, especially its laid-back vibe and kind people.
Lessons for Women Climbing the Career Ladder
So how did she do it? Sasha’s secret sauce is a steady blend of adaptability, authenticity, and taking calculated risks. She talks about shifting from her early data-heavy roles (think: more hours in spreadsheets than in sales calls) to a sales position at a “buy now, pay later” firm.
That bold pivot expanded her professional skill set and opened doors to the American market and her eventual dream job as a Shopify growth consultant.
Another recurring theme in Sasha’s story is courage: moving to a new city, changing industries, finding friendships in unfamiliar places, and pushing past discomfort of the unknown.
Needless to say, it takes guts to reach glory!
Actionable Takeaway for Entrepreneurs and Professionals
Her advice for anyone looking to advance in tech? Stay curious, get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and don’t hesitate to personalize your approach. The days of generic, mass outreach are long gone.
One more thing: Sasha’s willingness to say “yes” has rewarded her with a rich personal and professional life. So, always be open to new experiences.
It’s A Wrap
If you’re feeling a little stuck or unsure of your next career move, this episode is a must-listen. Sasha’s journey shows that showing up and genuinely connecting with people can lead you to some pretty incredible places.
Tune in to this episode of How She Got Here to hear the full story. You’ll come away inspired to chase your goals with grit, curiosity, and a positive attitude. You can watch or listen to Cass and Sasha’s full conversation on YouTube and Spotify. You can follow us on TikTok, LinkedIn, and Instagram for all the latest podcast updates.
And speaking of opportunities…
If you’re building or scaling your Shopify-powered business, you don’t have to go it alone. Cronix is a Shopify partner and an expert Shopify Plus development agency. Countless clients have trusted us for web design, development, migrations without hiccups, and all kinds of custom eCommerce services.
Contact us today to get started!
How She Got Here is proudly sponsored by Cronix, trusted Shopify Plus partner agency where we celebrate stories of innovation, resilience, and ambition. Stay tuned for more episodes spotlighting the journeys of women who are forging new paths in their industries.