Conde Aumann was first introduced to the adult novelty industry as a guest at a home party. More than 10 years later, she now maintains an integral position within the company as one of The Screaming O’s original account executives. In addition to boosting sales for the company’s retail partners, Aumann plays a hands on role in product development and promoting the brand’s message worldwide. In this month’s WIA Woman of the Month spotlight, Conde Aumann discusses her career and goals for The Screaming O.
What is your role and responsibility at The Screaming O?
It’s pretty awesome to feel like I’ve been an integral part of the success of a company as fantastic as Screaming O.
Officially, my title is account executive, aka “Sales Chica,” but one thing I love about being here is I also get to help out with a bunch of different things, including product development, product naming (that was fun — we actually have a whole page of “O” names just waiting for products), events, etc. We all work as a team to make Screaming O what it is and we have a ton of fun while getting lots accomplished.
How (and when) did you get into the adult novelty business?
It all started back in July of 2001 when one of my friends was invited to a home party. The invite said “bring a guest” so she asked me! From there I signed up and did home parties for about eight years, including being half-owner in a company of my own for about five years. When we knew it was time to close down, I wanted to stay in this industry more than anything because I loved it and the people who run it. It turns out Screaming O was looking to hire its first sales rep and I was lucky enough to get the job!
How has your previous experience prepared you for your current position?
Doing home parties definitely gave me the background and structure to have a ton of education about products, materials, ingredients, sexual health, [etc.] before I started here. I also had sales experience from working as a manager at a rental car company and as a manager at a property management company.
What challenges have you confronted in your career and how have you overcome them?
Challenges … hmm. My main challenge is to boost sales — I try to keep a good line of communication with my customers so they are maximizing their potential and they (hopefully) trust me to help them with decisions on our products.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part is being a member of such an amazing team of people and such an incredible company.
What is your personal motto or mantra that you live by?
“Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you.” If you screw someone over, you might get a big sale once, but they will likely never let you do that to them again. I like being able to help people out, and because I can really stand behind our company and products, I am able to look them in the eye the next time I see them.
What career accomplishment are you most proud of?
It’s pretty awesome to feel like I’ve been an integral part of the success of a company as fantastic as Screaming O.
What are your professional goals for 2012 and beyond?
As always, I plan to kick butt and take names!
Each month, industry news media organization XBIZ spotlights the career accomplishments and outstanding contributions of Women in Adult. WIA profiles offer an intimate look at the professional lives of the industry's most influential female executives.
