Before his remarkable career as a Sales Designer at Hammonds Fitted Furniture, Nathan Sharp’s life was a whirlwind of challenges and hard work. In this in-depth interview, Nathan shares the intriguing details of his journey, his motivations, and the keys to his astounding success as one of the leading Sales Designers at Hammonds.
Nathan, could you take us through your background prior to joining Hammonds Fitted Furniture?
Certainly. My journey to Hammonds was anything but conventional. Before joining this dynamic company, I was a firefighter with a dual role – I ran my own flooring and tiling business on the side. This dual life allowed me to earn around £60,000 annually. However, it came at a hefty cost – I was putting in a staggering 70 to 80 hours a week. At the age of 43, I reached a crossroads in my life. I decided it was time to work smart, not just hard. Academically, I might not have been the brightest, but I’ve always been the most hardworking.
What was the turning point that led you to apply for a Sales Designer role at Hammonds?
It’s quite a unique story. My wife actually initiated the process. She applied for a job at Hammonds after hearing from one of her friends, who worked for a competitor and was making a jaw-dropping £2,000 per week. She was convinced that I would receive a call and simply told me to say “yes” when it happened. That’s when I realized I wanted to earn a six-figure income annually and surpass my wife’s earnings. The allure of transitioning from physically demanding work, marked by sweat and tears, to a role where I dressed smartly, operated a laptop, and engaged in meaningful conversations with people about their needs, was undeniable. Equally important, I wanted to be genuinely confident in the product I was selling.
Now that you’re a Sales Designer at Hammonds, could you describe the day-to-day responsibilities and experiences that come with your role?
Absolutely. As a Sales Designer at Hammonds, I’m proud to say that the top Sales Designers here earn six figures. What’s fascinating is that it’s been the easiest thing I’ve ever done in my career. The secret? Honesty. In an industry often marked by deception, being upfront and truthful with clients is my guiding principle. After all, people buy from people.
Could you give us an insight into what an ideal week in your life looks like now?
I’m not sure I’m the best example of work-life balance, to be honest. I have a strong work ethic, and having a day off tends to make me feel guilty. If I have a slow start to the week, say on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday, I’ll go all out on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to ensure I end the week on a high note. I’m even willing to work all weekend if necessary because, let’s face it, you can’t earn six figures without putting in the hard work. That said, I do make sure to have two nights off a week – one for a date night with my wife and another to coach my son’s football team. I don’t complain about the travel; I simply embrace it. My weeks can be chaotic, but I thrive on that.
How has Hammonds transformed your life in more ways than just financially?
While the financial aspect is certainly appealing, my wife actually earns more than I do, so it’s not solely about the money for me. What truly drives me is the desire to be the best, to be number one. I’ve always been into sports and have a competitive spirit. However, the most significant change for me is that I never, ever have to set an alarm clock anymore. After having to wake up at 5 a.m. every morning for the last 20 years, I can finally live a life without an alarm clock.
What would be your strongest recommendation for someone considering a Sales Designer role at Hammonds?
There are numerous compelling reasons to consider this role. Firstly, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to earn more money than you could in an employed position. Personally, I had never ventured into sales before, and that might have been the key to my success. What’s vital is knowing the value of hard work. Hammonds is a great family-run company with an exceptional product. Moreover, you’re given the freedom to work independently and chart your own path.
Could you share your top tips for aspiring Sales Designers looking to excel in their careers?
Certainly. First and foremost, be yourself. Authenticity is something you can’t fake in this role. Honesty is paramount, and you must be prepared to work hard. These principles have served me well and could be the cornerstone of success for anyone considering this field.
Nathan Sharp’s journey from firefighting and flooring to becoming a top Sales Designer at Hammonds Fitted Furniture is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and authenticity in sales. His story serves as a powerful reminder that, in a world often clouded by sales tactics, honesty and hard work can pave the way to remarkable success. If you’re searching for a fulfilling career with the potential for substantial financial growth, a Sales Designer role at Hammonds might be the life-changing opportunity you’ve been seeking.
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