What made you want to work in sales for a tech company over working in sales in other industries?
I've been told I'd be great at sales, but I'm not sure where to start looking for jobs. Why do you do sales for the company you work for? What should I look for in a company to work for right out of school? #technology #sales
68 answers
Robert Potter
Robert’s Answer
Working IT allowed me to continue to enjoy a passion I have for technology and math. I also enjoy assisting organizations with improving their ability to deliver services and capabilities to their customers.
Michael’s Answer
There are a lot of great benefits for technology sales. Most of been mentioned already but to echo them you get to see all the new innovation and creativity well before anyone ever sees them. Another benefit is that you have the opportunity to interact with any other industry you can possibly imagine. Since I have been in technology sales I have dealt with customers in gas and oil, video gaming, restaurant, cloud (think Google Docs), and an endless list of other's.
Why do you do sales for the company you work for? : For most companies front line sales impacts everyone else and usually you have the fastest mobility through the company, this was one of the biggest parts of the decision I made.
What should I look for in a company to work for right out of school? This all depends on your priorities. A large company often hires a lot of young professionals so you get a work culture that you can bounce ideas off each other and grow your careers together. A small startup company you will have visibility to just about everyone including the owners and customers so you can really shine during accomplishments to EVERYONE. To find out while interviewing prepare a question you ask back "What is your team culture like at X company?"
Charlotte(Carly)’s Answer
1. Is it a right culture fit? (can you be yourself at work?)
2. Does the product provide value for their customers?
3. Do they support a good Work/Life balance
The Tech industry provides a lot of exciting opportunities for Sales people and as others mentioned it is constantly evolving so things rarely get dull :)
Lindsay’s Answer
HI Kelly,
I chose to enter technology over other industries due to the innovation in the area and the ever changing landscape. This industry is always evolving and will be around for a long time to come. Opportunities are limitless. Look for a company that has a mission that you can get behind.
Glen Whichello
Glen’s Answer
Hi Kelly,
I asked myself the very same question and from the very first time i used my first computer, spent my first minute "online", I knew i was passionate for new technology. Working for an innovative company is incredibly important to me, and when it comes down to sales, you must be passionate about what you are selling. What makes my job so much more enjoyable, and easier, is when you sell a product you believe in.
Neil’s Answer
Hi Kelly,
Personally, my interest in the technology industry started from my first pat time job in an electronics store. As my own interest in technology grew, the thought of building a career in this industry seemed to compliment my own enjoyment with work. Having the chance to integrate with certain teams in marketing, data analysis & buying means that you can tailor your role in future positions based on which parts you enjoyed the most. Certainly enjoying the technology has helped and I'm not sure I'd get the same enjoyment if I was to move to another industry as I'm not sure I'd have the passion for the products.
The way the technology industry always changes is a huge benefit as you never know what will come out next and how you can work with that product.
John’s Answer
Selling Technology is the future. High tech also provides a great opportunity to earn a significant income while modernizing and protecting the world. So you can feel good and have a mission while earning your living!
John
Quentin’s Answer
Joel’s Answer
Like some of the others, I graduated with a double major in Computer Science and Mathematics (yes, real exciting stuff, lol). I started in Technical Support and discovered right away that code building/application building was not my forte. I really enjoyed the collaboration with clients and presenting to them.
Sales is abundantly more than just answering questions and giving scripted presentations however I fed off the energy that it gave me being in front of clients and excelled so I moved to a sales role no more than 90 days after I accepted the Technical Support role (I moved within the same company). Never looked back
I cannot stress the learning opportunity you might get while working for a technology company. To be candid, we all work for a business (this can be manufacturing, telecommunications, retail) that is largely enabled by software and technology. Being on the forefront with a technology company will undoubtedly make you very marketable
Sean’s Answer
If you're conisdering a career in tech sales, there are two primary ways to break in:
1) Start in sales right after college - many companies recruit people straight out of undergraduate programs to work in entry level sales positions. Often times, this is referred to as "inside sales". Many people start here, and if they're successful they will move into front-line sales or account management roles.
2) Start in a more technical role in the tech industry, and then move into sales from there - this was my path. It's not uncommon for people who major in engineering or IT related fields to start their careers in technology consulting or software development, and then move into a sales function. For me personally, I started as a technical software implementation consultant, then moved into a technical "pre-sales" role where I was responsible for delivering software demos with the sales team. From there, I moved into a pure sales role and now work as an Enterprise Account Executive.
Paul’s Answer
Why do you do sales for the company you work for? I think it is important to believe in the product and/or services of the company you work for. This is a good start to expand your knowledge and expertise to have passion for what you do. People buy from who they know and trust. Listening to the needs of the customer and pairing them up with the features and benefits of what you offer builds trust and confidence. Once you loose the passion for what you represent, is then time to move on as customers can tell your heart is not in it.
What should I look for in a company to work for right out of school? You need to find the niche market that makes you get up in the morning. Then research the companies in that market segment and network with colleagues in LinkedIn, Facebook, etc. And also research what people are saying about the culture in sites like glassdoor. Getting an inside track will give you the best exposure if that company is a right fit for you. I think market leader companies can provide an awesome career path with all the amenities for growth, training and career path. A large company can essentially provide careers within the company. So one can change departments or divisions etc without really leaving the company as a whole. This can provide benefits like seniority, 401k employer matching growth, stock options potential and a career ladder just to name a few.
I hope this was helpful!
Brendon’s Answer
Rachel’s Answer
Hello Kelly,
To answer your question, I really enjoy working with technology because its always changing. You're constantly learning new things and challenging yourself.
I started off in sales at the company I work for and now I repair the technology I once sold. Because of my companies great values I've been here for 5 years! Each day is an adventure and there isn't anything I'd rather be doing.
Look for a company that provides you with opportunities to develop yourself and opportunities for advancement.
Companies that promote a positive work environment and also have community support will keep you interested and inspire you as grow.
Hope this helps!
Christian’s Answer
After my graduation I started my first sales job and realized I was pretty good at it. Fast forward some 15 years I have after being in Product Manager roles and various internal support functioning positions decided to transition back to a sales role again. If you find your passion, stay with it.
The main reason I've decide to stay within tech/software companies is based on my nature of being curious and love to solving problems. Tech is not limited in the same way as for example of the shelf products may be and it gives you room for creativity which is hard to find in other industries.
Most sales executives I know off have started in some sort of BDR (Business Development Representative) role. It's a great entryway to the company you want to work for and gives you the possibility to work with customers and explore their challenges.
Christian recommends the following next steps:
Chris’s Answer
First of all, great question. The truth is I did not make a conscious decision to do Sales in Technology, my career took me this way. I will say though, if someone asked you what you like or want to do, where does your mind go first? Perhaps make a list 1, 2, 3 and ignore everything else. If at all possible do in the field shadowing and see if this is what you want to do every day when you wake up.
Sales in general can be extremely fun and lucrative! But you for sure do not want to be selling something to a end-customer that you are not passionate about or would buy yourself.
You will have a great time figuring this out!!
Brittany’s Answer
When choosing a company to work for you have to find something about the industry that sparks interest and fire within yourself. For me, the technology industry does just that. It ignites excitement and energy on a daily basis. The tech industry delivers the future for many other industries - medical, pharmaceutical, engineering, teachers, etc. You name it and the technology industry is paving the way for all other fields to work and show up completely different than we did yesterday. Having the products in our hands to better the future for others, allows us to really connect with our customers. We can uncover their challenges and opportunities and fill the specific need with one of our products. We have the opportunity to make a difference in people's lives, business and our communities. These are just a few reasons why I choose and love the technology industry!!
Good Luck! :)
Heather’s Answer
Do you like technology?
Can you grow and learn from this career path too?
Seek out and apply for openings in this field immediately and surround yourself with like minded people that can help you.
I love technology not because I’m a good salesperson, but because it challenges me to be a better person and intrigue me to learn more. All of which I like.
Also, don’t wait to find the “ideal” job. A career advisor told me when I was starting out that you are more employable when employed. Go find a job and keep looking. You are the captain of your destiny here and you do’t have to wait for approval to get moving in any direction.
Randee’s Answer
Jillian’s Answer
Justin’s Answer
Tech is the one thing that isn't going anywhere. It's not a fad and is ever evolving. Even with the decline of the hardware component with a shift to virtualization and software-defined everything, there is still and will always be a need. Unless of course we find ourselves in a post apocalyptic sort of event.
If you choose to work in tech, just make sure the company you choose is and will be forever innovating. It keeps things fun and interesting and allows you to take a step back and realize that you are indeed part of something bigger. At Dell I can truly see that our solutions drive the world, from Game of Thrones to NASA expeditions, Future Ready Economies and everything in between.
Here is a site with a ton of articles that will make you salivate as you head into the industry. http://www.powermore.com/
Mike’s Answer
Kelly,
If you are passionate about something, it becomes easier to sell. Surrounding yourself with products that you enjoy takes the "work" out of the job. For me, it was the love for technology and the joy of helping people solve a problems that made the decision easy. Look for an industry that excites you.
At the same time, don't be afraid to try many jobs from all industries. It is through work experience that you discover what you truly enjoy and what you really despise. In High School, I worked in construction. I quickly learned I hated it and realized I it was not the career path for me. My bother, on the other hand, loves construction and still does it today. Take chance while you are young and discover what you are passionate about.
Shameem’s Answer
Sabin’s Answer
Software is a great field to get into regardless of the career if you like change and new challenges frequently because the industry changes so fast and is ever evolving.
At the end of the day though I always go by some amazing advice my former VP gave me which was to really search yourself to understand at your core what motivates you. What do you love to do at it's essence? Once you know that you have a true north to guide your career. Stick to jobs that align with you core passion.
Alasdair’s Answer
Hi there
Overall technology is changing the world and it's exciting to be part of that. In addition it provides a long term career with good growth opportunities and income potential that is generally higher.
Even if you look at technology there are technology companies that are good places for careers and places that are not so impressive. What makes one better than the other?
1 - opportunity for growth - find a tech company who is growing. If the company is growing then your career can also grow with it.
2 - culture - you want to work somewhere where people are treated well. Look on glassdoor.com or search google for "best tech companies to work for"/ " best cultures in tech companies" etc to find out what companies treat people well.
Alasdair recommends the following next steps:
Hussam’s Answer
digital transformation is shaping the way humans will interact in for the future, its really a good cause for you, the new generations, to contribute and be part of this transformation. its important to select this career for a cause more than the financial reward that comes with any job. At Symantec, our cause is to make the work a safer place by allowing safe flow of information and to protect the digital identities which we all have. find a cause that drives you and persue it so you can be happy and living for a good casue
Anthony’s Answer
Another benefit was the fact that many software and technology companies were looking to hire for sales roles. The vast array of options made it easier to be selective about the company I join.
Lisa’s Answer
Chris’s Answer
The personal belief in what the solutions I construct can provide means something more than just a job.
Greg’s Answer
Nicki’s Answer
George’s Answer
Hello Kelly,
The constant challenge, and endless opportunity is what led me to seek a sales job in the Tech Industry.
Thanks
Brett’s Answer
Doug’s Answer
I have been in high tech sales for 25 years and absolutely love it. You are always pushed to learn new products and understand customer needs. This career is ever changing you need to adapt. If you love change and solving complex problems you will have success.
Craig’s Answer
Karl’s Answer
Josh’s Answer
Craig’s Answer
Gianna’s Answer
My best advice would be to consider what you're passionate/interested in and pursue that type of sale. Consider things like who you would be selling to and what you would be expected to sell. For example, are you interested in selling to c-level executives in a long sales process or would you be more interested in applying your love of art selling to local paint shops. Just an example to illustrate that the sales process, product and audience can differ greatly and depending on your skills, interests and personality you could have very different results depending on the company you pursue. Also, ask your potential employer what their sales culture is - understand their compensation model, their training, their team composition and so forth.
Best of luck!
Doug’s Answer
Find a company that aligns with your interests. Ultimately you'll end up drinking the koolaid at any company you work for.
I was very technical and liked solving problems. I took a well paying job in support at a young age and then naturally moved into presales, then sales. I stayed in tech because it was fun learning about the latest things. Always challenge your self and when you are not being challenged anymore it's time to think about moving to a new company to help you continue growing.
jonathan’s Answer
Angela’s Answer
Mary’s Answer
Jason’s Answer
Robert’s Answer
Kelly,
For me it was due to the explosion of the internet in the mid 90s. I chose to go into a field of high growth and limitless potential. Sales in general is a good field, and your experience can many times be used in a new industry/field if you choose to move down the road.
Hi Kelly,
I wanted to work in sales for a tech company for a few reasons - 1) its a growing industry, therefore there will automatically be a large assortment of roles and opportunities. 2) Tech companies are in large publically traded, which means they have a relative amount of stability and opportunity to make good money through commissions and stock. 3) It's constantly evolving, which excites me - you won't get stuck in one role.
Britney Brix
Haider’s Answer
Great question ! .. What i love about being sales specialist in "Cyber Security" is the continues challenge and dynamic of this industry, You will never ever get bored !! every day a new shift comes along that will make you want to learn and explore more.
Anthony’s Answer
Zach’s Answer
Ben’s Answer
I choose to work in technology cause there is constant change and innovation which is exciting to discuss with our customers and partners. The IT community is great to be a part of as I am always learning and at times teaching, as well as sharing knowledge and giving back to the next generation of technologists/innovators. Find something you believe in!
Prateek’s Answer
If you're great at sales, maybe you can try it for a while and see if everything is going great. If not, you can always switch.
Howard’s Answer
Emily K.’s Answer
Karen A.’s Answer
Mike’s Answer
Working in Tech is great because it is always evolving. There are always new products and projects that you can work on. Every day is different for me and that keeps my career exciting. I love keeping up with technology and working in the tech sector allows me to stay on the cutting edge.
Majken’s Answer
Scott’s Answer
Apryl’s Answer
I've been in a few sales roles and I've been most successful when I'm passionate about the products/services that I'm representing.
Anchia’s Answer
So there is one thing that you will always hear. "Technology is always changing." When you step into sales at a company that not only embraces change, but is also on the forefront of initiating change, you develop a huge appreciation for the ways in which your industry is influencing and affecting the people and companies around you. Technology has a place in every industry and in every country. The purpose of tech is to improve what we are currently doing and to simplify processes. There is a sense of pride that comes along with knowing that you are selling a product, service and/or hardware that is literally changing how we do things for the better. When I first got started with sales, smartphones were just hitting the market. I could have never imagined 25 years ago that there would have been a way to scale down the size of my very clunky desktop DOS system to something the size of a wallet. But here we are and we know all of the ways that smartphones are assisting us with day to day tasks. I have always wanted to inform people that we CAN make things happen that change their lives.
When you are looking at companies, there is one really big thing to consider: Would you buy it? Do you see the value? Do you believe that the product/service/hardware can make a difference? And make sure that the company believes in their people as much as they believe in their products.
Damien’s Answer
Having worked in customer-facing roles in retail, phone centers and tech, a few things come to mind.
1. Mobility: Tech companies generally offer a greater opportunity for mobility in the company, whether this is a promotion path in sales or you want to explore another discipline.
2. Flexibility: With the introduction of all things digital, tech companies have had to comply with the times to accept remote working as a standard. Retail requires a more rigid schedule.
3. The Future: Technology continues to evolve, and so do technology companies. Concepts such as AI and Machine Learning are still being developed and being employed at a tech company allows you to see how these innovations will impact other industries, before they actually do.
4. Personal Growth: The opportunities for me to learn new skills and think outside of the box have been endless.
Hope this helps!
Damien
Paul’s Answer
When I first saw what a computer could do I knew that is where I wanted to focus my sales career. Once totally immersed I just wanted to learn more and become an expert in showing organizations how technology could really improve business operations & efficiencies. I was energized to show what a system could do to meet their requirements. Asking a lot of questions helped me understand their needs and challenges and craft the right hardware, software, services and training for the job. I strived to become their trusted advisor.
• Question: where is your passion that would motivate you to get up every morning? I had several sales jobs before launching into computers/technology. Before finding my passion they were just a job. So, find your passion, immerse yourself in it, become an expert, constantly be improving, have a good attitude, take risk, be willing to fail and you will be on your way to a lasting and reward career.
John’s Answer
I'm a geek at heart so the move to technology was easy. My satisfaction in selling technology was the influence my products/solutions have had in making companies improve and the impact to success my solutions have supported in their industries. My satisfaction of a sales career is getting out in front of customers 12 months a year, impacting their business, and competing. You have to believe in what you are selling will add value. You have to enjoy engaging with people and working to support the good and mitigate the bad.
As for looking for the right company to work for, understand the culture (Do you fit), make sure they sell a product that you are interested in into an industry that you can get excited about. Big companies will typically invest more in training you, so not a bad place to start, while smaller companies will look to ramp you up faster and you will learn by trial and error.
Rebecca’s Answer
Gail Peter Wong
Gail Peter’s Answer
Technology industry changes faster than most industries and if you are ripe for continuous learning and LOVE the industry, you will be successful. If you are don't enjoy the industry you work in, its time for a change. Many people change careers, I've heard 3-4 times over their career.
Carl’s Answer
I can only answer that question by looking back at my career. The great thing about technology is that it is always changing. As long as you keep educating yourself it will remain interesting because it constantly changes. I have been working at my company for 32 years but participating in the change in the industry has allowed me to have many jobs, many roles and many times over work with customer to take advantage of the business benefits of moving to the new technologies as they develop and become available.
Mark’s Answer
Working for a Technology company allows me to stay current with all the existing and new services businesses use to grow their company. The environment is dynamic because of the many different people you meet and work with. I enjoy working with clients to improve their business operations.
Mark recommends the following next steps:
Wouter’s Answer
Hi Kelly,
For me, the fact that technology is changing all the time did the trick
thx
Skylar’s Answer
Learning the foundational skills right out of school will set you up for success at almost any company. I have worked at a couple of different companies now and the common theme across them all is that I genuinely enjoy helping others and serving as a liaison between the company and the customer. I tend to work for companies that are either mission driven or provide a product that is making an impact in the world.
Ellie’s Answer
Jeremy Zollman
Jeremy’s Answer
I have worked in Security Software Sales for the past five years and I really enjoy the fact that each customer with whom I engage has a unique environment and set of needs to address. This dynamic enables me to engage with them in a meaningful conversation about their business and what's important to them. From there, I can recommend a solution that meets their needs and help them implement a holistic security solution which provides them with the ability to focus on their business rather than cyber-threats.
I truly feel that the work that I'm doing isn't "Sales" but more of a partnership with companies everywhere to make the world a safer place. This sense of purpose is the primary reason that I love what I do but would not be interested in pursuing a Sales role in another industry, or company for that matter.