Meet Jaevon!
As a people-person and self-proclaimed “tech nerd”, Jaevon found the perfect place to work, learn and grow at The Source.
Jaevon started at The Source two years ago and is thriving as a Sales Associate, but there were some challenges to overcome in the beginning.
“The transition was difficult at first because I was more talking to people rather than identifying and serving their needs, and my manager was like, ‘Hey, what did they get out of that?’” Jaevon said.
With sales coaching and training from his manager, Jaevon had the opportunity to build on his personable nature and his love for helping people.
After lots of practice, Jaevon is excelling in his role. “You have to keep at it,” says Jaevon.
Growing From Challenges
And the hard work has paid off. Two years later, he is on his way to becoming an assistant store manager through LEAP (Leadership Acceleration Program). LEAP was created for associates like Jaevon, who demonstrate hard work, leadership and a willingness to grow.
After a series of successful interviews with managers and store directors, Jaevon is excited to be on his new path.
As a new LEAP associate, Jaevon is learning how to improve his business acumen and carry out leadership duties such as managing inventory and sales, and coaching and training employees.
"When you have leaders that care, it motivates you to try even harder." - Jaevon
Celebrating Accomplishments
Jaevon says that he is most proud of his development in his professional and personal life.
“Before I didn’t really have any ambition to do anything, but here, I feel like I’m actually doing something with my life. I feel like I'm progressing as an adult. Now, I get a paycheque every two weeks, I'm growing within the company, and I'm having a positive effect on people around me. It definitely motivates me to keep going." - Jaevon
Jaevon is also grateful for the support and encouragement he received from his circle of co-workers and managers at The Source.
“Everyone I got hired with is moving up. It’s pretty inspiring to be honest.” - Jaevon
Why The Source?
“I love people and I love tech, so this is perfect for me.”
Jaevon says that he loves being among a great team of people who are all willing to help each other succeed.
“I love to inspire my teammates to perform better and be that person you could speak to for advice.”
Jaevon also enjoys seeing the benefits of his hard work show up in his paycheque.
“We have a great commission structure here. I enjoy the fact that the better you feel and more motivated you are, the more sales you get, and your paycheque reflects that.” - Jaevon
Future Aspirations
Jaevon is proud to be working towards becoming an assistant store manager. In the future, he would love to manage a store. But, his ultimate goal is to be a professional gamer. “I can promote The Source on my stream!” he said with a chuckle.
Breaking In
Tiffany Donaldson (not pictured) is the Project Manager for Employee Training at The Source. She is passionate about seeing young employees like Jaevon find their footing on a career path to growth and success at The Source.
“We’re looking for a go-getter with an entrepreneurial spirit.” - Tiffany
Previous experience is not required for Sales Associate roles. Instead, The Source looks for youth that are personable, empathetic, creative problem solvers and display a general sense of gratitude. Being able to show these qualities through education, volunteering and/or life experiences is a definite asset.
Employees are encouraged to explore the wide variety of opportunities at The Source and Bell Media.
"On a dynamic and diverse team like The Source, employees can work with a multitude of different people with a common goal to succeed," Tiffany said.
“It’s a great place for self-discovery, and it’s a fun and changing environment.” - Tiffany
Starting as an associate, employees can explore career paths to an assistant store manager, store manager, regional manager, Human Resources, Talent Acquisition, Employee Training, Marketing, Finance and call centre positions and more.
“If you’re not sure which direction you want to go, joining the Source will open your eyes to the operation of tech retail and what it takes to run a successful business outside of the Sales Associate role.” - Tiffany
The Value of Youth Talent
Whether it’s age, gender or race, Tiffany says that it’s very important to have talent that represents the diverse customers that shop at The Source.
“Not only would you have someone who understands your needs, but someone who you can connect with and relate with in order to find a solution,” Tiffany said.
“I think it’s very empowering to see young people in our workforce and it shows the diversity of thought, it shows how we’re able to be creative and find solutions. Just having that diversity is super important and it elevates our culture.” - Tiffany
Excited to start working? Register for InterviewME to get paired with job opportunities at The Source and other great companies in your area!
(Photo Credits: The Source, Yellow Pages, Adobe Stock Images)