Nashua’s network of franchises and dedicated salespeople are core to the prosperity of the business. And Nashua knows their people-centred approach is as critical within the business as outside it. Which is why there’s a place for every kind of salesman. Nashua’s approach is to find new and unique ways of working with its employees. Like Phumlani Mgobhozi – the singing salesman.
Mgobhozi was born in Umkomaas, KwaZulu-Natal and moved to Umgababa when his family were the victims of political violence. He found solace (and his voice) singing Gospel in his local church and school choir and continued to pursue his dream of music stardom.
Today, Mgobhozi is not only a director and co-owner of his own record label, PM Productions, but a successful and admired salesman for the Nashua South Coast branch. His approach is one-of-a-kind: using his music and celebrity status to connect with key players in businesses and schools in his area. This in turn helps him build meaningful working relationships, to provide innovative business solutions.
A partnership for successÂ
Mgobhozi’s journey to Nashua started when he met Geoff Evans, then CFO of a listed paint manufacturing business in which Mgobhozi was employed. Evans and Mgobhozi joined forces to establish PM Productions. Mgobhozi headed up business growth and development for the partners’ new business.
Over the course of 8 years, Mgobhozi’s passion, perseverance and charm intuitively told Evans he’d make an excellent salesman for Nashua. When Evans took over Nashua South Coast with partner Raefe Dyer, he instinctively knew Mgobhozi would be great fit for the new acquisition.
Mgobhozi day-to-day duties include selling Office Automation products as well as other Nashua offerings. He dynamically pursues new business opportunities and maintains relationships with valued clients.
“I couldn’t speak English when I started PM Productions. Now I’m interacting with CEOs, Majors and MP’s and selling them solutions to improve their business – all while using music,” says Mgobhozi.
Connecting with clients through his music as part of the introduction process is key to Mgobhozi’s unique and impassioned sales approach. This is highlighted by his innovative business card that he uses to cold call, which is a copy of his CD with all his business card details stuck to the cover.
“Music allows us to see a part of each other. When it comes time for business, they know the kind of person I am. Connecting through my music is often the start of a respectable relationship. Music has opened doors to decision makers and important deals for the business,” says Mgobhozi.
Giving back to communitiesÂ
Evans, backed by Nashua, supports Mgobhozi in performing music for free (with other artists) in some schools in the community to raise funds – just another way his musical talents connect and inspire. Mgobhozi also offers free public speaking to pupils, sharing his life story and rise from an underpriveleged background to successful businessman and musical celebrity.
An example of the power of Mgobhozi’s music was showcased when working with one of Nashua’s FET Colleges in the area. Nashua South Coast has proposed that the FET Colleges host fundraiser concerts featuring Mgobhozi. Students who registered at the college received free tickets to the concert. This increased registration rates for the colleges and created interest around education opportunities available to students in the area.
“Education is critical to mitigate most challenges faced in life,” affirms Mgobhozi.
Nashua’s approach is to incorporate their salespeople’s talents and interests into their work, creating a more passionate and engaged Nashua team, who care deeply about their clients.