From a Graduate to Sales Coach: 5 Years with Dell Technologies, Alan's Career Journey

Alan N. | Sales Coach | Dublin, Ireland

Originally Published: March 10, 2023

Can you describe your current role at Dell Technologies?

I have been based in the Cherrywood office in Dublin, Ireland for my entire 5-year career with Dell Technologies. I've been working as a Sales Coach in the UK Medium-Sized Business since December 2021. As a Sales Coach, it is my responsibility to mentor new Inside Sales Representatives (ISRs). I assist with designing individual plans and group training sessions, along with creating educational material that can be used to be a successful ISR. In just over a year, I have coached 24 new ISRs in the business. My role is very influential, allowing me to take a wider approach in the organisation by leading a variety of initiatives. This includes enablement sessions and the interviewing process for new hires. In this role, I’ve gained great exposure and had opportunities to develop skills in areas that are quite new to me.

Could you share your career progression within the company?

As I mentioned above, I joined as a Graduate ISR in September 2017, which seems like only yesterday. This was a great experience, and I shared it with 15 other graduates in the same position as me. It was comforting to know that they had the same challenges and concerns as I did in this new environment. Within six months, I had become the co-lead of GenNext Cherrywood. GenNext Cherrywood is an Employee Resource Group that revolves around the professional development of our younger employees and has expanded to involve all employees at the Dell Technologies Cherrywood office. This gave me exposure to leading a team and helped me grow within my core role. Over the 4 years I spent as an ISR, I was promoted several times within the role. At this point, I was ready for a new challenge and was delighted to be hired as a Sales Coach. A core part of the role is working with graduates, and it helps that I was in their position not so long ago.

What are your top tips and advice when mentoring new graduates and sales members?

My main tip to new graduates and sales members is to be yourself. A sales team doesn’t work if everyone is the same. The best sales teams are diverse and have different ways of thinking. Therefore, my main piece of advice is to bring your voice and a fresh perspective to the role.

Can you describe a project or moment that you have been most proud of during your career at Dell Technologies?

Working at Dell Technologies gives us great opportunities to give back to the community across Ireland. One of Dell’s main charity partners is Barnardos Ireland. Barnardos’ mission is to deliver services by working with families, communities, and partners to transform the lives of vulnerable children who are affected by adverse childhood experiences. As part of my role as co-lead of GenNext, I have worked on multiple projects over the past 5 years to raise money for charities like Barnardos. During my time at Dell Technologies, I have been involved in projects that have raised over 15,000 euros for Barnardos. I would say this is up there with my proudest moments with Dell so far.

How has Dell Technologies contributed to your success?

Dell Technologies has immensely contributed to my success. Throughout my career, I have met so many amazing people who have always supported me in my work and personal life. This has given me the confidence to grow my career and have a positive impact. This doesn’t just apply to my organisation, but across the whole company, the people at Dell Technologies have created a friendly and helpful environment.

What would you say to encourage other new graduates to join Dell Technologies?

I would say join Dell if you want to grow a successful career and be supported along the way. Dell Technologies is a massive company with many specialties; there’s an opportunity for you to explore any path you’d like with your career. Many of my colleagues have worked in Sales for 2 to 3 years before transferring to other departments such as Operations, HR, Supply Chain and more. The options are endless! My journey at Dell has been full of laughter and creating memories with new lifelong friends. I would highly recommend you join Dell Technologies.

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