Overcoming Adversity and Finding Success in Sales: Insights from Wayne Miller

In the fall of 2023, Uvaro joined forces with Digital Nova Scotia to unveil the Tech Sales Plus program. This groundbreaking initiative, backed by the Federal Digital Supercluster, aimed not just to enhance the skill set of individuals but to catalyze a transformative wave of professional enrichment across the Atlantic region. By integrating 100 members into this dynamic ecosystem, the program wasn't just welcoming participants; it was laying the foundation for a more skilled, knowledgeable, and economically vibrant Atlantic community.

To better understand the real-world impact of this initiative, we connected with Wayne Miller, 1 of the 100 members who joined through the Tech Sales Plus program. Wayne's story is not just about career transformation; it's a vivid illustration of how targeted training and support can empower individuals to achieve their professional and personal goals. His journey with Uvaro highlights the tangible outcomes and life-changing opportunities created by such partnerships.

Catch some of the highlights of this conversation below to get to know more about the members changing the face of tech in Atlantic Canada.

Who the heck is Wayne Miller? What are you doing now?

I'm Wayne Miller from Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada, specifically from Cape Breton Island. When I think about who I am, the main thing that stands out is my life has been filled with overcoming adversity. From my childhood, that's a story that kind of defines who I am. 

As a young boy, I had a serious accident on my bicycle, crashing into a telephone pole, which put me in the hospital for a month in a life or death situation. But the first day I got out of the hospital, I got back on my bicycle, much to my parents' dismay. This story of not giving up, of getting back up and trying again, has been a recurring theme throughout my life. It's about facing adversity, getting knocked down, and then getting back up fast, moving forward, and shaking off the dust. 

What motivated your transition to sales?

The transition to sales was born out of financial necessity. As I was finishing university, I faced a daunting $50,000 student loan. Juggling three jobs, including roles in healthcare and fitness, I still struggled to make ends meet. 

The turning point came when someone visiting the hospital, a salesperson, noticed my potential and offered me a role in sales. Initially unfamiliar with commission-based work, I was intrigued by the concept of 'the sky's the limit' in earnings. This phrase resonated with me, reinforcing the idea that my efforts would directly impact my success. 

So, in 1999, I started my journey in sales, purchasing a Honda Civic and traveling extensively. The effort paid off when I was recognized as the Canadian Salesperson of the Year, outperforming larger regions. This success was a critical moment in my career, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful journey in sales!

Can you share about the adversity faced in your life?

Adversity has been a significant part of my journey, shaping who I am today. In high school, particularly in the transition from grade 11 to grade 12, I faced a heartbreaking tragedy. A horrific truck accident involving fifteen of my friends resulted in the death of two of my best friends. Entering my final year of high school under the shadow of this event was incredibly tough. I was carrying the enormous weight of grief and loss.

During this same period, my parents were going through a divorce, adding to the emotional turmoil. As a young guy, it was challenging to process all of this, and I found myself becoming more rebellious. Seeking a change in environment, I transferred to a new high school on the advice of a childhood neighbor who was a guidance counselor. This move turned out to be a positive change, taking me away from the negativity and sorrow that surrounded me.

In the new school, I not only excelled academically, securing a scholarship, but also found success in athletics. Playing for one of the top teams, we won a championship that year. It was a defining moment, igniting a spark within me that continues to drive me today. These early experiences of adversity taught me valuable life lessons and significantly contributed to building my character.

What's your philosophy on positive thinking?

My approach to positive thinking has been a significant driver in my life and career. It's about not just being optimistic, but also being resilient in the face of adversity. I see myself as someone constantly battling against the negative, pushing towards the positive. It's like being a 'warrior of the light' in a world that often seems to be shadowed by darkness. For me, maintaining this positivity is an everyday task, a commitment to myself and my goals.

I've always believed in the power of a positive outlook, even when situations seemed daunting. This mindset has been a key to my success, helping me to turn challenges into opportunities. It's about seeing the brighter side of things and using that perspective to keep moving forward. This philosophy has not only guided me through tough times but has also been a source of strength and inspiration to others in my journey.

Tell us about your entrepreneurial ventures?

My journey into entrepreneurship was greatly influenced by my family, particularly my grandfather, Tom Miller. He was the first person of color, an African Nova Scotian, to be elected city counselor in Sydney back in the 1960s and was a remarkable figure in our community. 

What I remember most about him was his dedication to fitness. Long before gyms were commonplace, he had a gym in his garage and was always involved in health and fitness. His influence led me to pursue a degree in Kinesiology and Nutrition, fueling my passion for health and fitness. Inspired by his legacy, I ventured into entrepreneurship, aiming to create products and services focused on health and well-being.

How important is authenticity to you?

Authenticity is incredibly important to me, both personally and professionally. Being authentic means being true to myself, my values, and my beliefs. It's about not trying to be someone I'm not. Throughout my career, especially in sales, I've learned that people can spot inauthenticity from a mile away. They appreciate and resonate more with someone who is genuine. This authenticity has helped me build trust and establish meaningful relationships in my professional life.

For me, being authentic also means acknowledging my journey, the adversities I've faced, and how they've shaped me. It's about being open about my experiences and sharing them with others, not as a way to seek sympathy, but to inspire and motivate. Authenticity in my actions, decisions, and interactions has been a key factor in my success. It has allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level and has been vital in my leadership roles, in my business ventures, and in my personal growth."

What are your future goals and aspirations?

My future goals and aspirations are deeply connected to my experiences and what I’ve learned over the years. As I look ahead, my aim is to continue growing both personally and professionally. At 50, I feel that I'm still in my prime, and there's so much more I want to accomplish. I am committed to lifelong learning and want to keep acquiring new skills and knowledge. This drive for continuous improvement is not just about career advancement but also about personal fulfillment.

I envision a future where I'm actively contributing to my community and making a positive impact in the lives of others. One of my key aspirations is to maintain my health and well-being, as this is crucial for enjoying life to the fullest, especially with a growing family. I believe in setting a positive example for my children and those around me, showing that age is not a barrier to achieving new goals. In the long run, I see myself being active, healthy, and engaged in life well into my later years, using my experiences and knowledge to guide and inspire others.

Could you share some inspiring encounters?

Throughout my life, I’ve had several inspiring encounters that have had a profound impact on me. One such encounter was with Robin Sharma, the author of 'The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari'. I had been deeply influenced by his book, and it was serendipitous when I learned he was speaking at a conference in Toronto. I made the trip from Halifax to Toronto to attend his talk. In a room filled with people inspired by great leaders like Gandhi and Mandela, Robin Sharma shared that he was from Port Huxbury, Cape Breton, which was a moment of connection for me as I was the only one in the room who knew the place. This encounter made me realize that someone from a background similar to mine could achieve great things and inspire others. It motivated me to think about my own potential and the impact I could have.

Another inspiring moment was meeting Will Smith while he was shooting 'I Am Legend' in New York City. I happened to be at the right place at the right time and got to interact with him briefly. These encounters, while brief, were significant in showing me the importance of seizing opportunities, being in the right place at the right time, and believing in the possibility of greatness, regardless of where you come from. They have inspired me to think bigger and reinforced my belief in the power of positive thinking and the law of attraction."

Any advice for visitors to Nova Scotia?

For anyone visiting Nova Scotia, there's one place I highly recommend - Cape Breton Island, especially Aspie Bay or Cabot's Landing. This is where John Cabot first entered North America. The area is absolutely magical. The beaches there are white sand, stretching for miles, and the backdrop is stunning with mountains and lush landscapes. It's like stepping into another world, almost like a Jurassic Park or a rainforest area. It's one of those places that's so beautiful, it almost doesn't feel real.

Stories That Drive Smiles, Programs That Drive Results

Wayne’s story is a beacon of hope and resilience, a real-life success story emerging from the Tech Sales Agile cohort. His hiring, a pivotal moment which came during his time in the training program, is a testament to the program's effectiveness. It's not just about acquiring new skills; it's about transforming lives and careers.

Uvaro is committed to creating transformative experiences for individuals and communities. Our focus is on designing targeted skill development programs that offer measurable career advancements, with a special emphasis on tech sales. If you're aiming to bring about positive change and boost career opportunities in your community, let's talk.