Tell us a bit about yourself and what you’re up to now
I bring approximately ten years of experience in business development, sales, and client relationship management, spanning across diverse industries including international education, software development, and textiles. In my spare time, I'm an enthusiastic reader and audiobook listener. I also find enjoyment in playing chess, going to the gym and dedicating time to studying Mandarin Chinese to maintain my language proficiency. Currently, I’m working as a Sales Representative at BJSS, where I’m responsible for generating sales leads and creating a pipeline for the enterprise segment. Additionally, I’m in the process of managing the entire sales cycle for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses and Mid-Sized Enterprises.
What was your journey into a career in Tech Sales?
In August 2020, during the pandemic, I was laid off from my job as an Educational Sales Representative. Subsequently, I began applying for other sales positions. In September, I attended a virtual career fair with a determination to shift my career path towards becoming a software engineer. Throughout the rest of the year, I embarked on a self-learning journey to explore various programming languages. Eventually, I focused on learning Python, but I soon realised that my learning process lacked structure, and I struggled to solve even basic coding problems.
Recognizing the need for a more structured approach, I started researching web development bootcamps and decided to enroll in one in April 2021. This decision left me feeling better prepared and more confident to pursue roles in the software engineering field. I actively applied for software engineer positions, but I encountered challenges progressing past the initial interview stages. Several months later, a recruiter contacted me regarding a BDR role within the tech sales industry. Ironically, I had applied for the same role at the same company just a week after being laid off in August.
What would you say are the best things about working in Tech Sales?
The earning potential is a significant factor that makes a career in tech sales appealing because the possibilities are limitless. What makes tech sales even more compelling is the strong entrepreneurial and personal growth aspects it offers. It challenges you to develop resilience, optimism, and efficiency. It provides opportunities to gain in-depth insights into business operations, enhance your social skills, and it's worth noting that many C-level executives and directors often have backgrounds in sales during some part of their careers.
What advice would you give to someone who is just about to start their career in sales?
Create an elevator pitch for yourself and practice it regularly. Seek feedback from others to make it better. Having a strong elevator pitch ensures that you're always prepared to present your best self to sales managers, recruiters, prospects, and fellow sales professionals. If you're not already part of a sales community, consider joining one and attending events to connect with other sales professionals to learn about best practices. Embrace the failures that you will face, and seek out feedback to learn from your mistakes. Understand that you need to be comfortable with persevering through challenges, as in sales, the top salesperson often loses many more times than they win.
Why did you decide to join Tangent as a Mentor and why should others join as Mentors too?
Last year, I participated in Tangent's pilot program and had conversations with some other participants who aspired to BDRs. Back then, I lacked an understanding of the concept of social mobility and didn't recognize the significance of work referrals. However, I have since come to realize the profound importance of Tangent's mission. They are embarking on a groundbreaking journey to reshape the world of work, making it more inclusive for everyone. I support their cause and I’m eager to contribute to their mission.
Why others should join: wWe have all received assistance in advancing our careers, whether it was in the form of mentorship, seeking advice from experienced professionals, or receiving guidance from our family. I believe this is a fulfilling experience because it allows us to make a positive impact and also presents opportunities to receive referral bonuses.
Ready to make a difference?
Tangent connects you with aspiring Business Development Reps from socially diverse backgrounds for short-term mentoring and an employee referral.
Sign up to be a Tangent Mentor today 👇
