Renee Constant is the Manager of Northwest Pawn in Eugene, OR. After responding to a Craigslist ad 7 years ago, she found her calling in the exciting and fast-paced world of pawn. A passionate pawnbroker, she finds fulfillment in the ever-changing inventory and building relationships with her customers.
How does your business look different now vs. when you first started?
Our pawn base is growing consistently, as are our sales.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an attorney.
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you when you were getting started?
How important self-care is. Don’t become so involved that you forget yourself. If you can’t be 100, you can’t give 100. Work-life balance is so important.
What do you enjoy doing during non-work hours? How did you get interested in those activities?
Going places is my hobby. From road trips to the coast, to 15-hr drives to Las Vegas. I’ve always loved to travel, however listening to my customers talk about where they have been really makes me want to get out and see the world.
Tell us about your fondest memory in the business to date.
One day, not long after I started, I was upset and ready to give up. I said I was quitting and walked out. Troy, the owner, followed me out and said, “Nope, you can’t just give up like that.” He had a heart-to-heart talk with me, then told me to go to the beach and said he would see me tomorrow. In that moment, I knew I had found more than just a job; I had found a work family. I’m so glad he didn’t give up on me.
What have been some of your biggest learning experiences in running a pawn business?
Learning to be patient and understand the diverse needs of my clients while being tactful. The old saying teamwork makes the dream work is so true; without my team, I couldn’t do the awesome work I do. To grow and be successful in this business you need more than just yourself.
How do you set your business apart from others in your industry?
My passion and love for my customers that I bring to the office every day. Customer service and compassion can go a long way in this industry.
If you were stranded on a desert island alone, what 3 items from your pawn store would you want with you?
Crossbow, Survival SOS Beacon kit, and a machete.
What would you want people to say about you at your retirement party?
You’re a legend, thank you for everything you have taught us…. Enjoy the white sand and have fun.
