Team – Xcellent ATL

Meet Navy Veteran and Team Leader, Michael Simmons

Michael Simmons, a Team Leader here at Xcellent ATL, began his career here just moments before a global shutdown. The twenty-two-year-old entrepreneur joined the team in February of this year, and is wrapping up the year with just as much enthusiasm and drive as his first day. The Atlanta native always dreamt of becoming a business owner and professional boxer.

After graduating from high school, Simmons joined the US Navy, an experience to which he credits all of his success. “I am a very proud Navy veteran,” says Simmons, “it was the greatest experience of my life. I earned lifelong friends and the mental resilience that I didn’t have before. As a junior recruit, you have to prove yourself. You have to prove that you have a strong mind, an ability to adapt and be an asset to a team. Active duty taught me to wait, take a breath, take a moment, and think. I learned to do my part on a team and have integrity. I learned that everything comes to light, so do your best today.” It’s no secret that active duty can be one of the most challenging situations mentally, physically, and spiritually. How did he get through it? What is his advice to others in his shoes? “Fight your mind; it will stop you to protect you — that’s survival. Work with what you have until you get more. Don’t overthink but be ready for life’s curveballs. Your actions decide your life.”

Exactly how much of this experience did Michael Simmons bring to his career here at Xcellent ATL? You gain pieces of yourself from experiences like that, and those pieces never leave you. “All of my greatest accomplishments come from my time in the Navy,” says Simmons, “I was able to travel around the world and meet so many new people, and accordingly, those social skills have helped me tremendously in this career. I am only twenty-two, and I have traveled to seven different countries; I’m proud of that.”

The natural extrovert pulls inspiration from all around him: his fellow veterans, colleagues, and mentors. Most of all, Michael Simmons is inspired by his family. “I am inspired by people who came from nothing and made their way in the world,” says Simmons, “I learned that from my parents; they are my greatest inspiration.

They taught me that success is the ability to give. I want to have everything I need, so I can be in the position to give to others.”
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Michael Simmons brings so much to the Xcellent ATL team, from his drive to others’ encouragement; every part of him is an asset. “I am an extrememly hard worker and never settle for less,” says Simmons, “I strive to be the best at whatever I do. I have a strong desire to learn and grow. I am also very competitive. I think that comes from my time as a boxer before the Navy. Boxing gives you a strong desire and hunger to win.”

Where will Michael Simmons be in five years? The short answer is, anywhere. “I want to become my own boss; that is my passion,” says Simmons, “I want to be able to give, give, give. I hope to continue boxing, even on a non-competitive level. In five years, I hope to own my own clothing brand, which is something not everyone knows about me! I want to invest in homeless shelters and support small businesses and teams nationwide.” If there’s one thing we’re sure of, it’s that Michael’s going to make a difference.

Creating a Team During a Crisis: Chatting with HR Recruiter, Alexius High

June 2020 brought a new HR Recruiter to the Xcellent ATL team. Enter twenty-two-year-old business leader, Alexius High. Born and raised in Georgia, High played collegiate basketball on a full-ride scholarship to Lander University. A competitive edge, determination, and a student mentality came together to create this stellar entrepreneur in only twenty-two short years.

How does one turn a childhood dream of being an anesthesiologist into a budding career in business and recruiting? “I had no idea I would end up in this career field,” says High, “but, I love talking to people and helping individuals, so on that front, this career seems like a no brainer.” Tough decisions faced Alexius during her college years, but diamonds are created under pressure. “After my sophomore year of college, I had to transfer to Georgia State University, where I currently attend,” says High, “that experience changed me a lot. It was the first time I had to make a big decision for myself. I had to work twice as hard for everything I wanted in life, and this is no different.”

Alexius High’s goal is simple; to become the top recruiter in the state of Georgia. “I want to take the company to the top,” says High, “my career has grown since becoming a recruiter. I get the chance to interact with so many different people while also bringing in new talent to the company. I won’t lie; it can be challenging. It can be difficult to find consistency in a career where every day is different, but I manage and will excel.”

As a deeply spiritual person, Alexius High knows precisely what force is behind her success. “I am passionate about putting God first because without him nothing would be possible,” says High, “I am also passionate about knowing more about the human mind, so I do a lot of reading on human psychology and the way humans think.”

COVID-19 has brought on specific struggles for recruiters, as recent graduates and aspiring businesspeople search for their place in the industry. “The circumstances of 2020 have taken a toll on the hiring process at Xcellent ATL,” says High, “Many of the applicants reject work due to COVID-19. I am looking forward to the remainder of 2020 because I know as the years continue, the business will grow, and I am excited to keep scouting new personalities and abilities to our team.”

More than any other career, business professionals need their network to succeed. No one achieves anything alone, and early in her career, Alexius High understands the importance of leaning on the people around her. “My favorite thing thus far is the support that I have from my team at Xcellent ATL,” says High, “They motivate me and push me hard so that I can be the best I can be. This is by far the best company that I have ever worked for. I am also motivated by my mother. I watched her struggle as a single mother for so many years, and she taught me that nothing in life is free. If you want something, work for it.”

In the next five years, Alexius High hopes to own her own lash business and manifest her passion for enhancing female beauty and confidence. As her mounting success grows, High reflects on her humble beginnings and encourages future leaders to maintain faith in themselves and determination. “My greatest accomplishment to date is a little different than everyone else’s, but it has been finding myself,” says High, “I reached a point in life where I was lost. I didn’t know what I wanted for myself or my future, and I never knew what tomorrow would bring. I did not want to ask for advice because I didn’t want to show people how I felt. I didn’t want to let my family down, and I was afraid of being a disappointment. I made many decisions with myself and with God. I am much happier now, and I have a set plan for my future.”

Want to keep up with Alexius? Watch out for the future autobiography of her life, self-titled, The Change. “I would never picture the way my life is now. I changed for the better.”

Meet This Month’s Xcellent Leader: Akem Washington

Here at Xcellent ATL, we value every part of the entrepreneurial process. From idea generation and team building to networking and coaching, our Xcellent leaders work tirelessly to serve the client, the team, and themselves through their work. Akem Washington is no different. The Account Manager joined our team in July of 2019, and as we approach the one year mark of his career with Xcellent, we are reflecting on the road that brought him here.

Born and raised in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Washington was an adventurous soul from the very start. “There is not much to do in Mississippi,” says Washington, “so I was always finding adventurous things to do as a kid. I believe that there is no such thing as boredom; the world around us is a playground.” In his younger years, Washington played various sports and served in the Model UN, but his main priority was football. “The competitive environment on the football field taught me never to settle,” says Washington, “I learned always to give 100% no matter what. Practice translates to the game, so never waste time ‘half-working.’ Practice how you play.” Before joining our team, Washington had no idea that this is what his life would look like. “I truly didn’t even know such an amazing opportunity existed,” says Washington, “I swore up and down that I was going to be a lawyer. As I got older, my mindset shifted. I was attending Valdosta State, and continually sharpening my competitive edge through intramural sports. Ultimately, I decided to join the military, where I had to conduct training for one of the squadron commanders. I learned so much through that experience; I realized that things that may seem minor could have a much larger impact on your life.”

“When I was younger, I went through two life-changing experiences,” says Washington, “at eight, my mom underwent brain surgery. It was frightening for me as a kid, but it taught me a lot about resilience and faith; I am so proud of her determination when I remember those moments. Years later, I was in a pretty bad car accident. It was terrifying, but I gained a new appreciation for life.”

When he walked in the doors of Xcellent ATL, Washington saw his home. He was taken aback by the laid back energy of the team, the warmth and friendly nature, and the constant motivation shown by every team member. “Everyone brings something different to the table,” says Washington, “I have learned to appreciate my ability to read a crowd. I can fit in wherever I am, just by observing the energy in the room. I’ve never had a problem talking to people or encouraging them to open up, which is a great tool in this line of work.” However, even the most influential leaders can stumble over their weaknesses, authentic leadership is overcoming those obstacles and adapting. “I’ve learned how to better myself both personally and professionally,” says Washington, “It can be a challenge when I feel like there is not enough time in the day, but I’ve adapted and improved. A lot of that growth is owed to my team; I see them as an extended family, a group of mentors, and lifelong colleagues. I feel like everyone has my best interest at heart, and I couldn’t be happier about that.”

The future is bright for Akem Washington. “If I won the lottery, I would probably by my mom a house,” says Washington, “my proudest moment was seeing her face when I graduated from boot camp, she is my constant source of motivation.” While the lottery may be a longshot, one could say Washington hit the lottery when he chose to enter the business field. The only difference? This isn’t about luck, it’s a result of hard work, and Akem Washington wants you to know that it is possible for those who are willing to work. “Keep going no matter what,” says Washington, “Find what motivates you and never forget it. Use that as your compass, and don’t stray away. Everybody has bad days. It’s all about the next one. Don’t let the past shape your future.”

Who is Xcellent ATL?

The path to success isn’t identical for everyone. Sometimes it takes trial and error to create the perfect “system” for you and your team. To build a strong foundation for success, it’s important to define your values, know your purpose, set key goals, and put in the work. Our team at Xcellent ATL recognizes these factors and we approach our goals, together, with the utmost professionalism and diligence- while also having fun! Keep reading to learn more about our team culture, values, services, and more!

Who is Xcellent ATL?

Located in Atlanta, GA, Xcellent ATL is an independently owned and operated sales and marketing firm. We represent one of the most well-known clients in the telecommunications, fiber optic, and entertainment industries. We pride ourselves in our focus on internal growth- and we strive to do so in a fun, professional work environment. Each day, we bring a new level of energy to our industry!

Xcellent ATL is committed to developing the leaders and entrepreneurs of tomorrow!

Our Mission

Let us dive into our mission at Xcellent ATL a little bit more for you. We heavily focus on collaboration, team strength, and overall team growth. Together, we work to build a client-centered, customer-directed, ‘outside of the box thinking’ marketing/sales firm capable of servicing an esteemed portfolio and promoting employee growth. With enthusiasm, we use our unique team skills and talents to deliver results that our clients not only expect, but also deserve.

At Xcellent ATL, we believe in a team built upon a strong structure with high efficiency. We provide our teammates with a top-notch training system that is guaranteed to help them grow both professionally and personally if they are ready to put in the elbow grease. Our management truly cares about each and every team member and serve as professional mentors to help everyone achieve their goals. We pride ourselves on the development of our people and we are adamant about providing an advancement opportunity to those who are dedicated to their own success. Xcellent ATL is committed to developing the leaders and entrepreneurs of tomorrow!

100% Opportunity

100% Results

100% Success

What are our core values?

Camaraderie
Philanthropy
Recognition
Excellence (It’s even in our name!)

Click here for more information on our core values.

What services do we provide?

Brand Marketing
Direct Sales
Team Development
Travel Opportunities

Click here for more information on our services.

We hope that by reading this blog, you have learned a little more about our Xcellent ATL office’s team culture and business. It has been our pleasure to give you more insight into the day-in and day-out goals we work hard to achieve. Together, we know we can Be Xcellent! To visually see more about our team, give us a friendly follow on Instagram!

Meet Georgia Native: Donald Crawford

Xcellent ATL has an exciting introduction! In March of this year, our team grew by one. Georgia native, Donald Crawford, joined our team as an Account Manager. In his younger years, the natural funny-man dreamt of being a comedian. “My entire family would describe me as a funny guy,” says Crawford, “I was always laughing during my childhood. I remember going to work with my grandfather at the electrical company he owned and making the whole office laugh.”

After graduating from high school, Crawford went on to attend Savannah State University where he studied Criminal Justice. Alongside his studies, the Account Manager served as an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, where he networked with future leaders and served his community through philanthropy. After earning his undergraduate degree, Crawford went on to seek a master’s degree and did just that. Before joining our team, the Account Manager earned his MBA and became an entrepreneur in training.

Only a few months later, Crawford encountered the opportunity of a lifetime here at Xcellent ATL. His position as an Account Manager has allowed Crawford to grow in the industry, network with other entrepreneurs, and create a track record of success that speaks for itself. “I was totally attracted to the environment of Xcellent ATL,” says the Georgia native, “the people here were warm and inviting, while also cunning in business and goal-oriented.”

As for the future, Donald Crawford has a plan mapped out. “I hope to be managing a conglomerate of businesses,” says the Account Manager, “I want to move around. I would like to live in every capital city of the country for at least a season.”

From all of us here at Xcellent ATL, we thank you for your hard work, dedication, and adventurous spirit, Donald! Keep crushing it.

Meet Tugba: From Germany to ATL

Xcellent ATL has a new team member to introduce! Welcome, Tugba Uymaz. The customer service specialist joined our team on May 8^th of this year. Atlanta may be her new home, but Tugba Uymaz’s childhood unfolded in an entirely different culture.

Where are you from?

“I was born in Fürth, Germany. I grew up there, but my family has an immigration background from Turkey.”

Wow! What made you jump from Germany to Atlanta?

“My parents grew up half in Turkey and half in Germany. We also moved around Germany a bit. I lived in Fürth until the age of five, then stayed in Nürnberg for a while. At the age of thirteen, we moved to Schwäbisch Hall, and by the age of nineteen, I moved to Berlin to start at the Technical University of Berlin. I have lived in Atlanta for four years and I love it. With that being said, I had to adapt to new situations, cultures, and environments quickly in order to make new friends. Because of this, one of my natural skills is to adapt to new people – I love people! I am always in the middle of the crowd making friends and meeting new people!”

How did that experience develop you?

“Growing up in a family with an immigration background is not easy. I can understand that it must have been hard for my parents since we were growing up in a different culture outside with school and friends but at home, it was a different culture. I’ve learned big two big things: how to be understanding, and how to always find a solution. I had to prove to my parents that this new culture that I was bringing home was great. As a strong independent woman growing up in a family where the man is the protector and financial supporter, I felt very competitive with my brother.

How would your family describe you?

“My parents describe me as a dominant person, who does whatever she sets her mind to. My dad just told me this Monday actually.”

Did you have any idea you would end up in this family?

“I had no idea I would end up in this field. This is something so different than anything else I have done. My childhood dream job was to be an astronaut working for Nasa. So naturally, I was into physics and Albert Einstein.”

Tell us about your college experience.

“I started at the Technical Universality of Berlin 2016. I was studying to become a physical engineering scientist. The school system is quite different than in the US. In the winter of 2018, I finally got my work permit. As an independent woman, I couldn’t wait to start earning my own money. I found Xcellent ATL through Career Builder. Since I am a success-focused person, Xcellent ATL just gave me the right opportunities.”

What might we not know just by looking at you?

“I am fluent in English, German, and Turkish.”

As for her future, Tugba Uymaz knows what she wants. “In five years, I see myself owning my own company and running a strong team,” says Uymaz, “I want to help others reach their goals. It is no secret that success comes from hard work and I am willing to put in that time and effort.” We see the world for Tugba and can’t wait to watch her accomplish it.

Meet the Amazing Amazia!

Here at Xcellent ATL, we are grateful to work with such an incredible team of leaders. One of those leaders is Amazia Shelby, an account manager in the Xcellent ATL office. A born Mississippian, Amazia spent many of her childhood years right here Georgia, which is why it is no surprise that she ended up with us in Atlanta- the heart of Georgia. As a kid, the businesswoman was social and outgoing, athletic, intelligent, and kind-hearted. “I ran track, played soccer, joined a stepping team, and did ROTC for three years,” says Shelby, “those things helped me remember that even when you fall, you can get yourself back up and become stronger than before. If you didn’t fail, you would have nothing to learn or grow from. You have to remember that no one will do it for you. Either you can be the champion or someone else will, and there is always someone right behind you to take your place.”

With a competitive edge like that, it is no question to us how she ended up on our team. However, that journey was not so simple for Amazia. “I never thought I would be in this field,” says Shelby, “I honestly never wanted to do sales, but when the opportunity came my way, I took it and ran with it because I knew this wasn’t something that comes every day. Terry and Monique showed me what this opportunity could do for me and how it could change my situation, so I took control of that chance.”

Amazia Shelby joined the team on March 11^th, 2019 and has seen such growth since that day. “I was a little nervous when I first started because I knew everyone knew more than me,” says Shelby, “but I knew I wasn’t going to let that stop me from proving to myself that I could do anything I put my mind to. I quickly noticed that everyone treats each other like family. They welcomed me with open arms and helped me when I needed it.”

“The culture is amazing. They don’t judge you and the main goal is to develop you into something so much more. They want everyone to succeed and achieve their goals, but they also hold us accountable for the goals and motivate us to hit them. Being able to learn and grow with the team has been my best memory at the company. If I ever need help, they are all there to help me and any future entrepreneurs that come in.”

The stellar work ethic and iron positivity that Amazia brings into the office is not a new motion for her. When asked about a life-changing experience, the account manager shared, “having to grow up at a young age taught me that only you can achieve your goals, no one else will do it for you. If you want it, go get it.”

As for her goals with the company, Amazia knows what she wants. “I want to grow and develop myself into a stronger leader. I know I can do it.”

Meet Darrea Dawson: Team Lead

This month our Xcellent ATL team had the pleasure of sitting down with Darrea Dawson, a show-stopping team lead in our office. Dawson calls Wichita, Kansas home, and has been with the company since October of 2018.

Did you grow up in Wichita, or did you move around?
“I was raised in Wichita until the age of eleven, I then moved to Georgia and have been here ever since.”

What were you like as a kid?
“My parents would have described me as hardworking and quiet, but outgoing at times. They’ve called me talented, exceptional, athletic and studious.”

Were you involved in any sports as a kid?
“I played basketball in the position of second and third guard, but I was able to play all positions if needed. I used to skateboard as well. That was the first thing I ever wanted to be professional at.”

You were quite the athlete! How would you say that competitive environment shaped you?
“Being in sports showed me how to be competitive. I’ve always been competitive in nature. I always want to perform at my best and be able to say I can do anything I put my mind to.”

Did you know that you would end up in this career?
“I had no idea that would be in this field, but by the way my life was going, I knew I was going to do anything I needed to do to reach my end goal. This is a part of that journey so I decided to take it head on.”

What did you study in school?
“I went to college at SAE Institute of Technology for Audio Engineering.”
What is one life experience you feel has shaped you?
“I would just narrow it down to one experience because there are so many, and each play a specific role. I would narrow it down to having my two children because it helped me realize that my life isn’t just about me and my needs, but it’s about creating a better future for not only my kids but everyone who comes after.”

What is something we might not know about you just by looking at you?
“I’m going to change the world in some shape, form or fashion.”

When did you start with the company, and what were your initial thoughts?“I joined the team on Wednesday, October 14^th. My first thought when starting the company was that no matter how hard it got, I had to stick in there. Something unique that I noticed is that everyone wants to be surrounded by positivity. I believe that if every job had this atmosphere, they would be a little better.”

How would you describe the culture at the company?
“I would describe it as a group of people who just want to be successful and are not satisfied with being average.”

What is something you’ve learned through your work that you didn’t know before?

“I learned that there was an opportunity to go from being entry level to owner in less than 18-24 months.”

What are your goals with the company?
“I want to eventually become an owner and use this as a vehicle to open other doors for more opportunities.”

Meet Emmie Beery: Leader In and Out of the Office

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Xcellent ATL team! This month, we are giving ourselves the gift of appreciation, specifically for our impeccable and hardworking team. This month, we’ve decided to sit down with Emmie Beery, an AT&T Sales Representative Leader, here on our team about life and success.

Emerald Alexandria Suzylyn Beery, Emmie for short, was born in Griffin, Georgia. She remembers moving around until the fourth grade, when she moved to Senoia, Georgia. Beery spent the rest of her childhood years in Senoia, until graduating from East Coweta High School. Beery was a social and studious kid, who kept up strong grades and did the makeup for her high school theater program. “In that environment, I spent so much time with actors and actresses,” says Beery, “it was a competitive environment, where everyone always wanted to get the best roles.”

After graduating high school, Beery attended the University of West Georgia and Kennesaw State University to study nursing. “I had no idea I would end up in this field,” says Beery, “I’ve always been a people person and enjoyed helping people, so it ended up being a perfect match.”

For Beery, her home life is what gives her strength. “My grandmother raised me alone and always did her best,” says Beery, “she was a role model for me and showed me that I should always try my best. I also have 4 cats, 3 are rescues, and 1 I rescued in the field.”

On October 30^th, 2018, Emmie Beery joined the Xcellent ATL team. “I immediately noticed that everyone was really nice, positive, supportive, and dressed super nice,” laughs Beery, “the team was welcoming and fun like a family, but everyone is there to hold you accountable for actions.”

“Through this career, I have learned that anything is possible if you just put your mind to it,” says Beery, “you have to work as hard as you can to reach your goals. I have developed a more positive mindset and outlook on life, and I thrive when helping people and being that solution provider for them.”

As for her goals, Emmie Beery shows no signs of slowing down. “I want to learn as much as I can about the company and myself to get myself where I need to be to run an office,” says Beery, “I know all of my leaders are there for me if I need help with absolutely anything.”

Meet Xcellent’s Account Manager, Shakira Logan!

“I call it a happy place. Everyone goes through things in life, but once you get here it’s a free world and everyone is happy.”

Shakira Logan has been an account manager with Xcellent ATL since July of 2018 and has made great strides in success since that day. We decided to sit down with her in a one-on-one interview because we are inspired by her work ethic each and every day, and value her as an irreplaceable member of the team.

Logan was born in Toledo, Ohio, and raised in Collins, Mississippi, where she would live until heading off to college. As a kid, Logan was a natural introvert, bookworm, and highly intelligent student. Logan even skipped the eighth grade entirely, moving from seventh grade to high school. Alongside her dedication to her studies, Logan played basketball throughout high school and into college. “Basketball gave me the competitive mindset I have today, as far as always wanting to win,” says Logan, “I always knew what I wanted to accomplish, and there’s always someone better than you- it pushes you to continuously strive for your best.”

Logan graduated high school in May of 2014 and headed to Alabama A&M, where she would study Sports Management. Logan was a busy college student, as she struggled to balance her workload with her time on the basketball team. Ultimately, Logan closed out her basketball career in her junior year, which she cites as “the hardest, but the best decision I ever made.” “I ended up having three surgeries in less than a year,” says Logan, “I would get out of practice at 7 and sit in my car until 10, because I couldn’t physically move. I was forced to make the decision because I didn’t want to be in a wheelchair at 30, but it was the hardest decision of my life- this was everything I had been working towards all my life. However, when I quit basketball I got the opportunity to become more involved on campus. I joined a professional business fraternity and a sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho.” Logan went on to become the President of Sigma Gamma Rho in her time as a college student. The account manager credits this involvement and professional training with much of her success today. “Basketball made me competitive,” says Logan, “but letting it go allowed me to grow into a young professional.”

Immediately after college, Logan took a 9-5 position in finance, but in an out of the blue moment, was let go. “I think I got comfortable there,” says Logan, “but God didn’t have that plan for me.” Shortly after that, Logan touched up her resume and put it out into the professional world- prompting Xcellent ATL to reach out. “Within a few days of losing the job, I was contacted by Xcellent ATL,” says Logan, “it was meant to be.”

Logan started with the company on July 4^th, 2018. “I didn’t know exactly what I would be doing, so I came in with an open mindset,” says Logan, “when I learned about the opportunity in front of me, I turned on that student mentality and got excited to learn.” What Logan quickly saw was the strength of culture we have created here at Xcellent ATL. “I call it a happy place,” says Logan, “everyone goes through things in life, but once you get here it’s a free world and everyone is happy.”

Through her work, Logan has seen both personal and professional growth, and her gratitude goes out to the company and her team. “I learned that I have a whole lot of patience,” laughs Logan, “I’ve learned that I am really great at talking to people- I make other people feel good about themselves.”

As for her goals, Shakira Logan sees only green lights ahead. “I want to open up my own office,” says Logan, “I want to grow a strong team and help others understand the opportunity we have here, and help them achieve their goals.”