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Building My Future at Dell: Lessons from a Dual Study Program to Sales Success 

Maria Tassos | Inside Sales Account Executive | Germany

I’m Maria, Inside Sales Account Executive for Medium Business at Dell Technologies. My career path wasn’t a straight line—it started in law school and led me to a world of innovation, collaboration, and growth. Here’s my story. 

  

Why Did I Choose Dell Technologies? 

When I began studying law at the University of Halle, I quickly realized something was missing—practical experience. I wanted to combine theory with hands-on work and figure out which professional direction truly suited me. That curiosity led me to Dell Technologies. 

  

From my very first interview, I felt the difference. The positive atmosphere and strong sense of collaboration stood out. Dell values people, learning, and development, and I knew this was the right place for me. I enrolled in a dual study program in Business Administration, alternating between academic study and practical work at Dell. My dedication paid off—I graduated as the top student in my field and earned the prestigious “Förderpreis” (Award of Excellence). 

How Did My Dual Study Program Prepare Me for Success?

The program gave me a unique perspective on the business world. I rotated through Sales, Finance, and HR, gaining a holistic understanding of how departments interact and what success looks like from multiple angles. That experience has been incredibly valuable for my role today.

  

After completing my studies, I joined Dell as an Inside Sales Account Executive in the Medium Business segment. Transitioning from a learning-focused role to taking full responsibility for customers was challenging at first. The complexity of customer situations felt overwhelming. But by seeking feedback, leaning on my team’s expertise, and preparing thoroughly, I turned challenges into opportunities for growth. I learned that challenges are often the fastest way to develop both professionally and personally.

What Habits and Mindsets Help Me Thrive Every Day? 

Success is never an individual achievement—it’s a team effort. Knowing who to approach and staying open to learning have been key drivers in my career. My advice to anyone starting out? Be curious, proactive, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Take on challenges, even if they feel uncomfortable at first. And most importantly, build relationships—your colleagues are your most valuable resource. 

  

One of the biggest surprises for me was the culture within corporate sales. I expected sales to be very individual and number-driven, but instead I found a strong team spirit and a culture of knowledge sharing. Leaders at Dell actively support development and personal growth, creating an environment that is dynamic and motivating. 

  

How Does Innovation Shape My Work at Dell Technologies? 

Innovation is at the heart of what we do at Dell, and it’s a big part of my daily work. AI-powered tools help me analyze customer needs more effectively, identify trends, and anticipate challenges before they arise. For example, predictive analytics allow us to understand buying patterns and tailor solutions that truly fit each customer’s business goals. Automation also plays a huge role—it streamlines repetitive tasks like quoting and reporting, freeing up time to focus on building relationships and solving complex problems. These technologies don’t replace the human element; they enhance it. By combining data-driven insights with personal interaction, I can deliver a more proactive, personalized experience for every customer.

Innovation isn’t just about tools—it’s about mindset. At Dell, we’re encouraged to think creatively and embrace new approaches. That culture of continuous improvement means I’m always learning, adapting, and finding better ways to serve customers. It’s exciting to be part of a company that not only talks about innovation but lives it every day. 

 

My journey from law student to award-winning graduate to sales professional reflects the endless opportunities that come from embracing curiosity and teamwork. At Dell Technologies, growth isn’t just encouraged—it’s built into the culture.

   

To learn more about life at Dell, visit Our Stories.

 

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