We had the good fortune of connecting with Cynthia Barnes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cynthia, how does your business help the community?
Economic Empowerment:

Boosts female career development: By upscaling women with in-demand sales skills and fostering inclusive work environments, our training directly contributes to women’s advancement and greater financial independence in the workforce.

Promotes pay equity: When workplaces adopt fairer practices that attract and retain women, it helps narrow the gender pay gap, ensuring women receive equal earning opportunities for their skills and impact.

Supports diverse entrepreneurship: As more women succeed in sales roles, they gain invaluable experience and confidence that can then translate into launching their businesses, stimulating a more diverse business landscape.

Social Change

Reduces workplace bias: Training grounded in empathy and listening combats the “bro culture” prevalent in sales. This paves the way for greater inclusivity and a more respectful work environment where a wider range of talents and backgrounds are valued.

Shatters sales industry norms: Moving away from aggressive, outdated sales tactics, we help push the entire sales industry to modernize and align with evolving buyer attitudes that put trust and connection first.

Inspires the next generation: Creating sales teams composed of successful, diverse individuals sends a powerful signal to younger generations, expanding their career aspirations by providing greater visibility of women in these roles.

Ripple Effects

Stronger companies: Diverse and inclusive companies often enjoy greater innovation, better problem-solving abilities, and improved financial performance. This benefits both the business itself and the broader economy.

Happier Customers: Companies with an inclusive sales culture can better understand and connect with diverse customer needs. This translates to a stronger client base and more satisfied customers.

Healthier communities: Fairer workplaces and greater job satisfaction for women translate to more thriving families and stronger community support systems.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business helps companies unlock their hidden sales potential with a bold truth: Women Sell Better. Forget outdated ‘closer’ tactics – today’s sales are about relationships, understanding, and value. Women often excel in these areas, and my training develops skills proven to make sales teams stronger, more inclusive, and better equipped to serve a diverse customer base.”

HR leaders in male-dominated industries like [target industries] desperately need diversity solutions that work. Too often, ‘training’ reinforces male stereotypes that alienate women, rather than making the whole team better.

There’s real revenue being missed. Data shows women have 11 percent higher win rates, but old-school training leaves potential untapped. It’s hurting profits and innovation.

This isn’t just about feeling good. Customers are savvy and want sellers who genuinely understand their needs. They take their business elsewhere when they don’t see themselves reflected in a company’s team.

My training builds on emotional intelligence, active listening, and the nuanced approaches driving female success. It doesn’t ‘feminize’ men; it teaches everyone to be better sellers in today’s market.

Focus on inclusivity isn’t HR fluff; it’s profit-driven. We help attract female talent that normally avoids toxic, ‘bro culture’ sales environments.

It’s about results. With our methods, businesses see higher lead conversion, larger deal sizes, and, importantly, greater employee satisfaction across the board.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1:

Morning: Start the day with a delicious breakfast and coffee at Beyu Caffé

Afternoon: Explore the selection of home goods and unique gifts at Noir Collective AVL

Evening: Head to Durham for a delicious Southern dinner at Zweli’s Kitchen

Day 2:

Morning: Go for a scenic hike at the William B. Umstead State Park

Afternoon: Take a class at Black Butterfly Herbal Apothecary

Evening: Enjoy the lively atmosphere and classic diner food with a southern twist at So Full Cafe

Day 3:

Morning: Get our baking fix at Escazu Artisan Chocolates

Afternoon: Check out the art scene at the Hayti Heritage Center

Evening: Savor upscale cocktails and soul food tapas at Dame’s Chicken & Waffles

Day 4:

Morning: Pick up fresh provisions at Black Farmers’ Hub

Afternoon: Browse the local crafts and designs at the Black Dollar NC Marketplace

Evening: Relax with great jazz and elevated southern comfort food at The Living Room at Soul Vegan

Day 5:

Morning: Find vintage treasures and support a great cause at Dorcas Ministries Thrift Shop

Afternoon: Check out the latest fashions and gifts at Fifi’s Fine Resale Apparel.

Evening: Celebrate our last night with some authentic Caribbean cuisine and an island vibe at Island Vibez Grill

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When women tell me I’m the first Black female sales leader they’ve encountered, it’s bittersweet. Those messages empower me because they emphasize the importance of representation. You can’t aspire to a role you don’t know exists. They are a powerful reminder of why my work matters.

Website: https://cynthia-barnes.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/iamcynthiabarnes

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/cynthiabarnes

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cynthiambarnes

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