Tell us a bit about yourself and what you’re up to now some text
I am from the Netherlands and have been living abroad for 6 years now. I feel very fortunate that I am part of a multicultural family as I learnt from a young age how to adapt to different cultures, be comfortable with speaking different languages, and also to connect with family members who live abroad. Because of my parents’ job, we got to travel regularly and back then I already knew that I would like to do the same in my future career and to connect with people with different backgrounds. Now, 6 years later, I am quite settled in London and enjoy going to the countryside whenever possible for some walks or to go hiking. What is mostly important to me as well is to spend lots of time with my friends and family and listening to podcasts where I can learn how to improve my personal development, professional development, and health. Other than that, I started working in the software industry right after I graduated University and work as an Account Executive at Certinia.
What was your journey into a career in Tech sales?
Before I got into tech sales I started as as a Marketing intern at Microsoft back in 2017. How I landed this position was thanks to the hiring managers that were involved in the process and they all agreed that Diversity & Inclusion was key to them to take into account when selecting candidates. When going through the selection process, it seemed that over 2,000 candidates applied for the 6 positions that were available and the final round consisted of 12 candidates and we were invited to go to Microsoft’s office in Amsterdam. What helped me to set myself apart from the other candidates was that i had relevant experience already and many of the hiring managers appreciated my personal traits and approach on handling situations. Once I started at Microsoft, I learnt more about the impact that technology has on people’s lives as well as on numerous companies. This made me even more passionate about technology and given the flexibility this industry offers to their employees, it was a no–brainer for me to continue progressing my career within this industry.
What would you say are the best things about working in Tech Sales?
A career in Tech sales has so much to offer. Firstly, as with any sales job, you get the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone, build relationships from scratch with people and businesses you have never engaged with before. The skills you obtain and hone throughout your sales career are also transferable and useful for any job in the future as well as in your personal life. Examples of these are: relentless, creative, adaptable, problem solving, and time management. Furthermore, the earning potential is sales is also very promising. Once you have crafted your own strategy, improve yourself continuously, and surround yourself with great people, you can continue building on the success.
What advice would you give to someone who is just about to start their career in sales?
Working in sales can be challenging and you will also need support in your deal from several people across different departments who have their own priorities and deadlines. It’s key here to learn how to navigate through internal processes and to build strong relationships with these people so they will gladly help you when time is not your friend (or favours are needed). Lastly, it is key not to take anything personal, to control your emotions in difficult situations, and to remain patient. While working in sales can be challenging at times, you will see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Ready to make a difference?
A few hours a month, a lifetime of impact. 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 👇
