The path to breaking into the wine industry career can be a bit challenging - not only requiring an immense passion for wine, but also a wealth of knowledge along with an extensive experience in the field. And let’s face it, gaining experience in the field can be difficult to navigate. However, one Sonoma County winery’s innovative recruitment practices have simplified the process for the curious and qualified. When Murphy-Goode Winery announced their now viral «Really Goode Job» contest back in February 2021 it seemed almost too good to be true. A $10,000 monthly salary, free housing and a year›s supply of wine from the brand›s portfolio??? - Unheard of and almost unbelievable for an entry level position, with little to no experience. After receiving over 7,200 applicants, the search was then narrowed down to 17 finalists where Lindsay Perry and Veronica Hebbard were ultimately selected for the opportunity of a lifetime to move to Healdsburg and pursue their passion of working in the wine industry.
As Murphy-Goode prepares to relaunch its remarkable yet unconventional campaign once again, we sat down with winner, Lindsay Perry to get up close and personal about her experience, career goals, and creative tips for applicants looking to stand out from the crowd. Dubbed as the “Roadrunner” to those that know her best, Lindsay has always been the type of woman to embrace adventure and seize the right opportunity if presented. A background in digital marketing in Sports and Entertainment, her creative approach to social media management, and her newfound passion for wine education helped land her dream job.
Houston Style Magazine: So let’s get right into it. Who was the first person to hear the good news?
Lindsay Perry: It’s really a funny story. I was back home in Pennsylvania to attend a friend from middle school’s wedding at the time. One of my friends who I’ve lived across the street from since childhood has had two children during the pandemic years. I was tell- ing her about this incredible week-long trip that I just went on while meeting her children for the first time. As I’m holding her two-week old baby, I got a call from a 707 area code and it was Murphy-Goode calling to offer me the position. They asked me if I was busy and I said, “Oh, just holding my friend’s baby right now” and they said oh well you may want to put her down before we give you the news. I ran home, told my parents and they were over the moon with the support.
HSM: What advice or tips can you give to potential applicants about the submission process?
LP: Bring something to the table. Pitch your passion and your profession. Make a video you feel most comfortable doing, and make sure it conveys who you are. If they love your video and personality from your video that›s how you were selected as a finalist. How creative can you get, plus does it really show who you are on video? One thing that I did to set myself apart was including a QR code link to my resume on my video. I was nervous and hoped they loved my personality, but I think that it helped reinforce who I was.
HSM: How do you think Imposter syndrome might prevent someone from applying and what do you say to en- courage them?
LP: I even thought I wasn't cut out for it. I wanted to throw my hat in the ring and I didn't want to say anything . You just gotta do it. If they like you, they like you. I was one of two people who had actual wine certifications, you just had to love wine and want a career in wine to be considered.
HSM: What was the most rewarding thing that you learned throughout your journey?
LP: I think being able to learn all of the aspects of the wine business. getting to see the time, effort, and passion that goes into the winemaking process from the beginning. Being up at 6am at the crush pad. It›s a really cool experience. Coming from a marketing background, traveling to the different markets to see how wine is sold and talked about it changed my mind about wine and the beverage industry.
HSM: With diversity being at the core of your wine journey how has Murphy- Goode aligned with your purpose?
LP: We›re focusing on diversity and inclusivity by creating more access through partnerships with organizations like Wine Unify, Black Wine Professionals and the Roots Fund which supports people of color in the wine industry. We›ll also be supporting their scholarship programming with monetary donations so interested candidates can continue their wine education. It›s the perfect kind of partnership to help spread the word about the contest. Murphy-Goode also is creating a second language program to help improve communication amongst the staff.
HSM: What›s your favorite Murphy- Goode wine of the moment and what›s your go-to wine?
LP: I love our Sauvignon Blanc. It›s Fume style so it›s not your typical Sauvignon Blanc style so it›s easy drinking. It›s the perfect wine for the Texas heat. I can›t wait to taste this past year›s vintage because it›ll be cool to say Iove had my hands in it. I love big bold California Cabs, I also love anything from Columbia Valley and Walla Walla, Washington. Their Chardonnay’s are amazing as well.
Applicants must create and share a short video on why they’re the best candidate for Murphy-Goode’s “Really Goode Job” and submit a video application. Interested applicants have until June 30th to submit their most authentic selves for consideration. In July, applicants will have one last time to sell themselves as Murphy- Goode will welcome the finalists to Healdsburg, for in-person interviews to further showcase what makes them the best candidate for “A Really Goode Job.” The role officially starts September 2022 and runs through August 2023.
