Yaquira Resto didn’t start her career in Best Buy working in tech, but now she’s running one of the top-performing Geek Squad precincts in the company.
The Puerto Rico native started as a cashier at a store in Puerto Rico in 2008. She became a service operations manager before leaving to work at another tech company for a few years.
Yaquira returned to Best Buy in 2018 and now serves as a Geek Squad manager at our San Juan location. She leads a team of 35 Geek Squad Agents who serve thousands of customers each month.
“I didn’t know much about computers and tech at first,” she said. “I have learned everything here. I still learn new things daily.”
As a leader, Yaquira said she focuses on making sure that the employee experience is good. Then they, in turn, take care of the customers.
“You have customers you need to take care of, but you have to take care of the employees as well,” said Resto. “I think that’s been a reason for my success, my employees come first.”
When it comes to taking care of clients, Yaquira has one rule for her employees.
“Never say no,” she said. “I don’t have no for an answer for a customer. We will always be there to help.”
A Latinx leader
According to a recent study, only 1.7% of women in the tech workforce identify as Latinx. Even fewer are in leadership roles.
Yaquira recognizes the struggles she has gone through and how she has powered through it to be successful. One of the things that has helped throughout her career is her personality, one she said is fierce due to growing up with three brothers.
“I do have those customers who may think I don’t know my stuff, then get the surprise of finding out I am the manager.” Yaquira said. “I am proud of the role I have and how well I do in this role and to have such positive results. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve won it.”
Her strong performance has certainly not gone unnoticed.
“Yaquira is a charismatic leader. Her energy is contagious, and she creates a healthy environment with her associates and each of the people who work with her,” said Diana Bueno, the store’s general manager. “She leads by example and is always willing to go the extra mile for her people by empowering them and reminding them how important they are.”
Click here to view our Latinx Heritage Month landing page on BestBuy.com.