From Associate to Manager: One Store Manager’s Journey of Growth
Learn about Priscilla Ramos’ journey from the call center to the Spectrum Stores management team and her tips for becoming a leader in retail sales.
How did you start at Spectrum?
I joined the company in 2009 as a customer care agent in one of our call centers, not realizing that what started as a job would turn into a career I absolutely love.
From the start, I thrived on connecting with customers, problem-solving and making an impact. Eventually, I transitioned into one of our retail stores, where I got my first taste of face-to-face customer interaction, and I loved it!
I enjoyed helping customers find solutions that made their experience better, whether it was assisting with a payment, swapping out equipment or upgrading their services. After a few years, I was promoted to a Lead, and when we launched Spectrum Mobile, I continued to take on new responsibilities, first as a store sales advisor, learning the ins and outs of mobile retail. That experience prepared me to take the next step, and in 2024, I stepped into my current role as a store manager. It’s been an incredible opportunity to run my own store, mentor my team and create an environment where both my employees and our customers are thriving.
What specific skills did you focus on developing to prepare yourself for a leadership position?
One of the most important things I did to prepare to step into a leadership role was to sharpen my communication skills in larger group settings. I knew that as a manager, I’d be leading calls and meetings beyond my immediate team, so I made it a point to step up, speak in bigger forums and practice delivering my message with confidence and clarity. Each time I did, I grew more comfortable and effective, and it’s been exciting to see the impact that clear communication can have on a team.
Another game-changing skill was learning how to work with different personalities and learning styles. Everyone processes new information differently; some prefer hands-on, others like discussion, or visual or written instructions. As a leader, I’ve made it my mission to understand these differences and adapt my approach so each person feels supported, understood and prepared. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your team excel because you met them where they were and helped them learn to succeed.
Tell us about a key learning experience early in your management career and how that experience fundamentally shaped your approach to leadership today.
Realizing that being a great leader isn’t about having all the answers was a key part of my transition to management. Being a leader is all about listening, connecting and building trust.
Driving results and hitting performance metrics is important, but I discovered that strong leadership starts with open communication and truly understanding your team’s perspectives—and long-term success comes from building strong relationships. Focusing on both people and results has helped me grow into a more balanced, effective and confident leader who can inspire my team while we achieve big things together.
What strategies have you found most effective for mentoring and developing your own team members for potential future leadership roles?
Leading through example. I don’t just ask my team to meet expectations. I jump in, work alongside them, and model the behaviors, work ethic and accountability that I expect. This approach builds instant credibility, earns trust and motivates my team to rise to the challenge.
I also take the time to really understand my employees’ career goals. For those with leadership aspirations, I mentor them beyond sales performance, helping them sharpen skills so they can develop beyond their current role and take on new responsibilities. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your team step up, succeed and deliver because you helped pave the way.
If you could give one piece of advice to an associate aspiring to be a manager, what would it be?
That anything is possible! Spectrum has opened so many doors for me, not just for my career, but for my family as well.
From day one, I’ve had the full support of people who genuinely wanted to see me succeed. Even after all these years, I still feel challenged, inspired and excited. My advice is to not hesitate or second-guess yourself. Taking that step could be one of the best decisions you ever make, and the opportunities and experiences you’ll have along the way will be so worth it.
Want to learn how your passion for customers, problem-solving and teamwork can help you grow? Learn more about current opportunities in our Spectrum Stores and take the first step towards a career as a Store Manager: Retail Careers at Spectrum | Join Our Team
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