Blake was kind enough to share a few thoughts with us for his member spotlight.

1) Question: Tell us a bit about yourself & your business?

Blake: I graduated from the University of Alabama in 2007 and then moved to Washington D.C. to work for Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions. After about six months there, I decided to move back to the Gulf Coast Area. That’s when I began my sales career with Office Equipment Company. OEC is an office furniture and supply company that has been headquartered on the central Gulf Coast since 1973. OEC has offices in Pensacola, Mobile, and Gulfport. I’ve been working in the Pensacola area for two years now.

2) Question: What is the biggest challenge facing your clients right now?

Blake: The biggest challenge facing my clients right now is the weak economy. Over 85% of my clients had to downsize their business over the last two years. However, since a declining market is all I have ever known in my sales career, I just continue to call on new prospects. I try to not get discouraged when nine out of ten say “no” to me.

3) Question: What is your company doing to help?

Blake: OEC is focused on helping its customers to save money and to operate more efficiently. We introduced our “Smart Business” program. It shows our customers how to reduce the time it takes to purchase office products, while suggesting items that are the best value.

4) Question: What advice would you give to our readers?

Blake: Since no one knows how long this recession is going to last, the best advice I can give is to stay focused on what you do best, and look to others who are able to strengthen your business. I welcome the opportunity to help your readers reduce their office products expenses.

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If you find your small business in a tight spot, and you think that saving a chunk of change on your office supply bill could be the first step towards cutting your costs, then give Blake a call.
Blake Bramlett | OEC – (850) 438-1100