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Off Hours
Dental sales reps have plenty of stories to tell about their past and their present ...off the field

In "Rep Corner," First Impressions editors get the opportunity to talk with dental sales reps about their lives outside sales. Some have fascinating histories, others pursue interesting hobbies or activities. All embrace life. Here are some examples from 2009.

Terry Fitzsimmons, Holt Dental Supply, Waukesha, Wis., boys baseball coach. "I coach kids to give each one the same opportunity to learn the game of baseball," he told First Impressions. "Not every dad has the time or knowledge to teach their kids. I make sure it’s a level playing field as far as knowledge goes. Then it’s up to the individual boy and the talents God gave him whether he makes a select team or high school team."

Paul Suits, Carolina Dental Supply, High Point, N.C., builder of model trucks and toys. "I get an idea in my head and I begin," said Suits, describing how he builds things. "Could be a toy, airplane or truck. I see it in my mind and it materializes through the wood and objects around the garage."

Jeff Long, Nashville Dental, Nashville, Tenn., fly fisherman. "If you stay dry, you stay warm," he said. That’s important, considering Long and friends venture into waters as cold as 15 degrees F. "Trout like cold water."

Bill Myers, GC America, 30-year dental sales pro. "The dental industry is a great place to work," he said. "It presents a daily challenge that can help you grow, as well as an opportunity to succeed. Take it upon yourself to learn dentistry, learn the business and develop strong, lasting relationships with your distributor partners and customers by providing win-win solutions."

Michael Cobb, Darby Dental, competitive barbecue grand champion. "You sell your barbecue product to a judge, just as you sell dental supplies to a doctor. It’s about showing the judge or dentist that your product is the best."
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