Name: Revathy S.
Position: Sales Manager
Hotel: Le Méridien Kochi
Dream destination: Paris has always been my dream destination, a city where timeless romance and rich history come alive. I can’t wait to experience the extensive selection of wines, soak up the history of the city in charming bookshops, and try out the trendy yet elegant outfits Paris has to offer!
Drink or treat of choice: My drink of choice would have to be a classic south Indian filter coffee. It’s refreshing, energizing, and perfect for kickstarting a busy day or enjoying a break. As for a treat, I can’t resist a warm cookie—there’s something so comforting about that combination of sweet and gooey goodness!

When it comes to sales, Revathy has proven – the sky’s the limit! Revathy hails from Kerala, a small town in India, where she honed her gift for understanding client needs and crafting tailored solutions that exceed expectations. Revathy’s passion and dedication have brought her far – earning her many achievements including Marriott’s prestigious President’s Circle 2023 APEC Awards as a Top Performer in Sales.

For Revathy, “the most effective sales professionals focus on building trust and understanding their clients’ needs.” Her passion, combined with the supportive and nurturing work environment, has shaped her into the accomplished professional she is today.

Discover more about Revathy’s Marriott journey and how she is excelling in her own sales career.

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Can you share a bit about your current job and how you got here?

I’m working at Le Méridien Kochi as a Sales Manager. I have been dedicated to driving success and fostering growth for the past two and a half years. With a total of five years in the Marriott family, my role encompasses a range of key responsibilities. I focus on training my colleagues to ensure exceptional service and performance. My duties include forecasting banquet figures to align with business objectives; negotiating and converting corporate group and catering opportunities; and collaborating with vendors to enhance service delivery. My role is integral in shaping our sales strategies and ensuring seamless operations that contribute to our hotel’s continued success. 

I started five years ago as a Sales Coordinator at Le Méridien Kochi and progressed through various roles showcasing my adaptability and dedication. Managing multiple properties provided me with valuable insights into sales strategies and team dynamics. I also had opportunities to foster and encourage my creativity and innovation. Analyzing market trends and competitor activity enabled me to adapt our strategies and capitalize on new opportunities. Transitioning to Bengaluru as a Sales Executive helped me to develop new skills in a fast-paced environment. With invaluable experience, I moved back to Le Méridien Kochi as Assistant Sales Manager, and within two years, I was promoted to Sales Manager, where I continue to inspire and lead my team.

How would you describe your experience as a Marriott associate?

My experience has been incredibly rewarding. From day one, I felt welcomed into a supportive and dynamic environment that emphasizes teamwork and guest satisfaction. The training programs were thorough, equipping me with essential skills and knowledge about hospitality standards. I appreciated the strong focus on personal development and career advancement opportunities. Working alongside passionate colleagues inspired me to excel in my role and foster meaningful connections with guests. Every day brought new challenges, whether it was addressing a guest’s unique needs or collaborating with my team to ensure a seamless experience. The culture at Marriott emphasizes service excellence and community, making it a great place to grow both professionally and personally. Overall, being part of the Marriott family has been a fulfilling journey.

Describe a moment when you felt supported at Marriott.

Throughout several challenging periods in my life, Marriott has always looked out for me. During the pandemic, I was let go from my position at the time, but Marriott was quick to offer me the chance to work in a different role – the front office. However, I had to decline the opportunity as I was faced with medical issues. Even so, Marriott reached out to me again within the month to extend another opportunity to me to join the Courtyard by Marriott Kochi Airport Hotel, which I happily accepted and was thrilled to return to the family!

What does a typical workday look like for you?

I start the day by reviewing sales reports and analyzing performance metrics from the previous day. This helps me identify trends and areas for improvement. I then reach out to potential and existing clients through calls, emails, and meetings. Building and nurturing relationships is key, so I often schedule catch-up calls with key accounts. I also prepare and present tailored proposals for clients, ensuring that our offerings meet their specific needs. This often involves collaborating with other departments to gather relevant information. After meetings or proposals, I make sure to follow up promptly to address any questions or concerns, reinforcing our commitment to excellent service. I manage Opera, One Source and track sales activities to ensure everything is organized and up to date. Some days, I conduct training for my team members as I am a certified departmental trainer.

Proudest moment of your career so far?

My proudest moment was being recognized in the President’s Circle APEC 2023. Receiving the award in front of my mother made it even more special. It was her first time traveling outside of India, and she was thrilled to see the inner workings of Marriott. The joy on her face added to my pride in that achievement. After putting in so much hard work, having it pay off in such a meaningful way was an incredible feeling. It truly underscored the importance of dedication and the support of loved ones in reaching our goals. I was really proud when I saw that spark in my mother’s eyes while I was receiving the award.

What is something unique you love about your job?

I love the blend of creativity and strategy involved in sales. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about understanding the needs of clients and crafting tailored solutions that resonate with them. I enjoy the challenge of thinking outside the box to develop innovative strategies that not only attract new clients but also deepen relationships with existing ones. The dynamic nature of the industry keeps me engaged, as I’m always adapting to new trends and customer preferences. Additionally, the satisfaction of closing a deal or seeing a campaign succeed is incredibly rewarding. It’s fulfilling to know that my efforts contribute to both the company’s growth and the clients’ success. This balance of creativity, strategy, and personal connection is what makes my work in sales so enjoyable and unique.

What is a stereotype or myth about sales that you believe should be debunked?

One common stereotype about sales is that it’s all about being pushy and aggressive, often prioritizing quotas over genuine relationships. While there are certainly high-pressure environments, I believe this myth doesn’t reflect the reality of successful sales practices today. In my experience, the most effective sales professionals focus on building trust and understanding their clients’ needs. Success in sales comes from listening, providing value, and fostering long-term relationships rather than just closing deals at any cost. The best salespeople are often great problem solvers and communicators, emphasizing collaboration over manipulation. This approach not only leads to more sustainable success but also enhances the overall experience for both the salesperson and the client. So, while the stereotype exists, it doesn’t hold true for those who genuinely care about their craft.

Any advice for incoming Marriott associates?

Marriott is the fastest growing hospitality sector, and building up a hospitality career at Marriott is the best one. Marriott has a strong focus on service and teamwork. Take the time to understand and embody the company’s core values. Building positive relationships with your colleagues and guests is essential. Always prioritize the needs and satisfaction of guests. Anticipating their needs and going the extra mile can turn a good experience into a memorable one. The hospitality industry can be demanding, so remember to take care of yourself. Find ways to manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Finally, make connections with other people who work at Marriott – networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations in your career.

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