How Robert Woods Built a 27-Year Sales Career at ADT
On July 1, 1998, Rob Woods stepped into his first role at ADT as an 18-year-old residential installer in Wichita, Kansas. He didn’t know it then, but that day set a career spanning nearly three decades into motion.
Today, Rob is an established sales representative in South Florida, helping customers find the right security solutions while continuing to evolve in a role that’s never the same two days in a row. His past 27 years at ADT are a testament to what’s possible when you stay open to learning and take ownership of your work and career.
What It’s Like to Be a Sales Rep at ADT
Rob’s day-to-day work is anything but routine. Some mornings start from home, others begin with team meetings or customer appointments. He might be out in the field visiting referral partners, or meeting with a potential customer to design a tailored security solution. Later in the day, he’s following up on leads, sending emails, and preparing for what’s next.
“No day is the same,” Rob says. “You have to be ready to work a lot of hours in the field and be excited to generate new sales leads.”
Rob focuses on building trust, solving problems, and helping people feel confident in their security choices. It’s a role that demands initiative and rewards those who take ownership of their work.
Rob walking a customer through ADT’s different products and security solutions during a customer appointment.
Advice for Aspiring Sales Professionals
With nearly three decades of experience, Rob has seen firsthand what it takes to thrive in a sales role. His advice comes down to three essential pieces of advice: be a self-starter, stay patient, and commit to putting in the work, even when the results take time.
“You have to ask yourself—am I a self-starter?” Rob says. “Because in this role, your work isn’t designed for you. You have to go out and get it.”
He’s honest about the realities of the job. There are days when sales don’t come easily, and that’s when mindset matters most. “Sometimes you go days without a sale. You have to be mentally prepared for that. If you’re not, you’ll want to quit before you even get started.”
Rob stays committed to success by showing up consistently and building trust with every customer interaction, especially on the days that require extra grit.
Support That Makes a Difference
Over the years, Rob has worked with leaders who understand the demands of the role and the importance of staying mentally sharp. “The managers I’ve worked with have always understood how important it is to start your day in the right headspace,” he says. “They know the job can be mentally demanding, and they’ve encouraged us to take care of ourselves so we can show up ready to support our customers.”
Rob also noted the hands-on training and access to tools that have helped him grow in the role. From learning the technical side of installations early in his career to developing sales strategies and customer engagement skills, Rob has had the resources to keep building on his strengths. “They train you on the job. They teach you everything you need to know,” he says. “ADT gives you the tools to be successful and the freedom to make it happen.”
Rob attending a morning team meeting at the Sales Office, where leaders share new tools and expectations to set the tone for the week.
Flexibility That Fuels Success
One of Rob’s favorite aspects of his role is the flexibility it offers. “When my kids were younger, I could schedule my day around their needs,” he shares. “That kind of freedom made it easier to stay focused and productive.”
The ability to structure his day around appointments, installs, and follow-ups has allowed Rob to stay efficient and work in a way that suits his style. Whether he’s starting the day from home, meeting with customers in the field, or catching up on leads at the office, he has the autonomy to manage his time and stay ahead. It’s a level of trust and flexibility that keeps him motivated and engaged, even after nearly three decades.
Rob’s Final Piece of Advice: “Say Yes”
Rob’s story is a reminder that success at ADT comes from comes from being open to opportunity and willing to take the next step, even when it’s unfamiliar. “If you’re open to learning and ready to work, this is the place for you,” he says.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, Rob’s journey shows that with the right attitude and support, a job at ADT can become a meaningful and lasting career.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, Rob’s experience shows that success at ADT starts with showing up, staying curious, and saying yes to what’s next.
Ready to take the first step?
Explore current opportunities at ADT here and say yes to a career that offers flexibility, support, and the ability to make an impact.
