Zao Island in Valparaiso has recently brought on a new employee, Harry Peterson, into their sales department. Acting as a sales intern, Peterson's job this summer is to make connections and plan parties for Zao.
"I originally got hired here two years ago to do the go-karts. It taught me a lot about hard work. Then later, I was looking for a sales internship over this past semester. After talking to my contacts here, Ryan and Don (the owners) said they were interested bringing in a sales intern," Peterson said.
Zao has only had a few salesman in the past, so this is a great opportunity for Peterson to make important connections for the business and show his capabilities as an upcoming salesman. Being a student at Purdue West Lafayette, Peterson is gaining experience in the sales world and making important connections for his future.
"Once I began my major in Selling and Sales Management, I realized that it was definitely meant for me. Talking with people, selling things to my professors as exams, it is the perfect major for me," Peterson said.
One of tasks that Peterson does for Zao is plan any parties they may have. From kids parties to company parties, Peterson is the guy to talk to if you are looking to have a great party at a versatile venue.
"When I meet with a client, I talk them through all the information of what sorts of party packages we have and the ones that I would recommend for the party they have in mind. Most people want to get food here too, so I arrange that and figure out how big the party is going to be. Most of my job is trying to contact people and let them know what we can do for them here," Peterson said.
Peterson really enjoys his job at Zao and likes being able to communicate with clients. This internship will help him in his future endeavors as a salesman and helps him network with businesses around Indiana.
"Its a great feeling when I book large parties that involve over 300 people. I've been doing research into larger companies and trying to get in touch with them to let them know about our services," said Peterson
Whether it is a children's birthday party or an employee party, Harry Peterson has been booking parties left and right for Zao. Peterson is a young, driven upcoming salesman who is getting himself established with this new job at Zao Island.