A Seller's Perspective on the Client Solutions Group at Dell Technologies
Raphaël Berthelot | Product and Solutions Sales Specialist | France
Originally Published: January 16, 2025
My first role in Dell Technologies was in the early 2000s in the Enterprise Solution Group (ESG). After engineering school and a master’s in marketing, I joined Dell as an intern for a Product Manager Assistant role. I was quickly promoted to new roles like Technical Sales Representative (TSR) and Product Manager for Storage business. It was a very exciting period to work in IT during this time.
Then, I decided to leave Dell to join my family in the Bordeaux Area and start to work in the workstation business with a partner of NVIDIA.
After six years in different sales and management roles, I decided to join back at Dell for an international role in the Precision Product Group. I’ve managed the Go-to-Market for Precision in Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA) with a focus on Independent Software Vendor’s (ISV’s) partnerships. This job was unique, but I wanted to move to a sales role… I had the opportunity to join the Client Solutions Group (CSG) as Outside Sales Specialist. This new role offered me more customer relationships with both partners, private and public customers.
I am still in this role today, but I am in charge of the relationship of MATINFO, a group of purchase for Universities and Research in France. This is probably one of the most important customers in EMEA for Dell and I am glad to be responsible for this mission!
What is it like working within CSG? What makes it most interesting?
The workplace environment is dynamic and complex, presenting significant challenges. To thrive, one must be curious and attentive to customers, crafting customized services and products that align with their evolving needs. Another fascinating aspect is the collaborative culture. Success requires working with a diverse and virtual team, including members from core sales, technical staff, service specialists and more. This diversity is incredibly rewarding.
Dell Technologies provides an inspiring environment with numerous opportunities for career growth and development. You can immediately see the impact of your work and feel empowered to introduce innovative ideas. Additionally, Dell continues to support a healthy work-life balance.
Raphaël B.
Product and Solutions Sales Specialist
What are some of the most challenging aspects of being a sales account executive, and how do you overcome them?
Being a sales account executive can be quite demanding. Here are some of the most challenging aspects and strategies to overcome them:
- Consistently hitting sales quotas can be stressful so it’s important to regularly track progress and adjust strategies as needed.
- Balancing multiple clients and tasks can be overwhelming. I am prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance, and I try to delegate tasks when possible to free up time for high-priority activities.
- As a sales account executive, my job is to satisfy both the client and the company, and sometimes it can be tricky. My tip is to regularly take a step back and decide what is critical and where I must focus!
- Lastly, you must be flexible and innovative to navigate in the ever-changing market landscape. Always seek creative solutions to stay ahead of the competition.
How has Dell Technologies contributed to your success?
As a leading multinational technology company, Dell has provided me with numerous career opportunities. I've worked in marketing, Product Group and sales organizations. Initially, I managed Enterprise products (servers and storage), then moved on to Client Solutions, and have been responsible for both public and private customers as well as channel partners. My experience at Dell has been unique and diverse, filled with exciting and dynamic environments.
How do you measure success?
Of course, the first indicator is my Sales Commission Plan (SCP) and achievements of KPIs like units, revenue and margin. If I generate growth with my customers, I will automatically be granted with a higher commission. More importantly, it is the customer satisfaction. In the end, this is the final and most valuable indicator as it’s the requirement for long-term success!
What is your proudest accomplishment at work?
My proudest accomplishment at Dell is my 17-year tenure with the company. During this time, I've taken on various roles at both EMEA and country levels within the marketing and sales organizations. I hope that my colleagues remember me for my customer focus and drive for results.
What are your top 3 career lessons that you have learned during your tenure at Dell?
- Listen to your customers
- Prioritize your tasks
- Don’t stay in your role and go beyond expectations
But I would like to add a 4th lesson. I love sailing, and every sailor knows that the shortest route is not always the most direct, so always adjust your strategy and be resilient!
For 2025, I anticipate a shift in the end-user workplace that will necessitate high-level staff to support our customers as they navigate challenges related to AI standardization in the market, budget constraints and environmental requirements.
Dell Technologies provides an inspiring environment with numerous opportunities for career growth and development. You can immediately see the impact of your work and feel empowered to introduce innovative ideas. Additionally, Dell continues to support a healthy work-life balance.
To learn more about life at Dell, visit Our Stories.
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