Thriving with Purpose: A Journey of Growth, Challenges, and Impact

I was just six years old when my family immigrated to this country, embarking on a journey as first-generation newcomers. My parents arrived in New York City without knowing a single soul, choosing one of the toughest cities not for an easier life, but for a better one. They instilled in our family a profound sense of purpose—to live with intention, embrace challenges, and strive for growth.

I began my sales career the summer of my junior year in high school, selling vacuum cleaners door-to-door. Every day, including weekends, I knocked on countless doors, facing rejection and uncertainty. Looking back, it’s almost comical to think about the risks I took as a teenager, but those ten weeks were some of the most challenging of my life. To my surprise—and even more so to my parents’—I found success. More importantly, I discovered a passion for the art and process of sales, laying the foundation for a career that continues to inspire me.

After college, I spent 13 years at another Human Capital Management organization before following my senior leaders to Paylocity. Drawn to Paylocity’s purpose and values, which aligned deeply with my own, I trusted my instincts and knew it was the right move. Since joining, I’ve had the opportunity to thrive in various roles—from field sales to sales leadership and back again—thanks to supportive leaders who have continually encouraged my growth.

I still vividly remember my first day at Paylocity. When I called my manager to ask what my first task should be, he responded with a simple but impactful question: “What do you think you should do?” It was the first time I had a leader who truly challenged me, pushing me to grow and learn through my own experiences. From that day forward, I embraced action. While I encountered plenty of missteps along the way, I never felt like a failure. Each experience became a valuable lesson, propelling me toward meaningful growth and progress.

Over my sales career, there have been many accomplishments, and I owe that to my support system, both at work and home. As a leader, my most rewarding moment has been guiding the New England Team to finish in the top five nationally every year, including two years in the coveted number one spot; there’s nothing more fulfilling than winning as a team. After transitioning back to the field as an individual contributor, I earned the nickname “Susan Lucci” (after the actress known for finally winning a Daytime Emmy after 19 nominations) for finishing as the country’s number two producer two years in a row. In my third year, I achieved a record-breaking milestone with the highest revenue ever sold in Paylocity’s history—a record I’m sure someone will surpass soon! 

For over 13 years, Paylocity has honored its commitment to me, enabling me to continue my family’s legacy. I am profoundly grateful for the chance to genuinely help clients, colleagues, and partners, as my sales career has become one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life.

As I share with my children: Vita plus est quam solum vivere—life is more than merely staying alive. At Paylocity, I’ve learned that it’s about thriving with purpose, growing through challenges, and creating a meaningful impact every step of the way.