Case Studies

NAME : Jemma Pauley   NATIONALITY : British   UNIVERSITY ATTENDEND : University of Leeds   DEGREE OBTAINED : BSc Computing   AGE : 22   JOB TITLE : Associate Sales Representative (ASR)

 

Coming from a technical background, I applied to the Sales Associates Program for two main reasons. Primarily, I wanted to work with advanced, evolving technology in a dynamic company that would challenge me. Secondly, a sales role was something that had always interested me, but selling Cisco technology truly excited me, which sparked my interest in the Sales Associates Program.

 

The Assessment Centre, although not easy, was a fun day where I learnt a great deal about myself, the Sales Associates Program and the company I was hoping to join. It gave me a taste of things to come in the Academy – hard work, learning, teamwork and fun.

 

Since joining the program in September, I’ve had a fantastic time learning about Cisco as a company, Cisco technologies and developing my Sales and Business acumen. I have felt challenged from day one and learnt that you must love learning and be very determined to succeed here. There is so much to learn and only a certain amount of time in which to do it. You are not led through the Academy; you are expected to find your own way with the support of the team, which I believe is the most effective way to prepare you for life as a Cisco Employee where you, effectively, run your own business.

 

During the first 2 months in the Sales Associates Program, I studied for and passed a Cisco Certification, developed my technical and product knowledge, my ability to present and communicate with customers and sales and business skills. This just shows how fast things move here.

 

I find it difficult to say what has been the most challenging aspect of the Sales Associates Program as the whole experience has been a huge challenge which is what makes it so interesting and exciting to be here. The most enjoyable part has been moving to Amsterdam and meeting fantastic people from all over the world. Having the opportunity to work with them everyday in such a dynamic company, learning about the different cultures and being a part of this experience is an amazing opportunity.

 

As a result of the Academy so far, I have learnt that I am able to succeed in more than I thought I could, exceeding my own expectations. We set goals when we begin at the academy and work towards achieving them. I set goals that were very high which I thought I would meet in 6 months time; I have met most of these two months into the academy and the goals I’m setting now are things I didn’t think I would be able to set and succeed in so soon.

 

One of the remarkable things about Cisco is the Culture. To me, the Cisco Culture has a great deal to do with integrity, teamwork, leadership and innovation. Whist working in a team, you are expected to have individual thoughts and ideas and be able to motivate yourself and your team to drive ideas and thoughts forward. Cisco focuses on Customer satisfaction which is an important part of the culture, ensuring Cisco’s success as a company.

 

In addition to this, we are currently taking part in a Cisco initiative, Giving Back, where each employee gives back a day a year to the community to celebrate 20 years of Cisco. This reflects Cisco’s culture; it involves teamwork, promotes integrity and allows Cisco employees to do something to help others, which is reflected in the workplace.

 

After the Academy, I will to return my home country with the hope of starting a long and successful career as an Account Manager in the Commercial area. I’m looking forward to and am extremely excited about getting into the field to put all that I have learnt into practice, to work with the customers and provide solutions to Cisco customers, using the best technology on the market today.

 

I would definitely encourage others to join the Sales Associates Program for the excellent opportunities it will bring. From my experience, I believe applicants should have the drive and determination to learn and succeed. You will be working in a creative, proactive and supportive team so you will need to be able to lead a group, whilst still being part of the team and developing relationships. You will get the opportunity to drive change and promote innovation whilst being encouraged to improve both yourself and your team.

 

It is a rare occurrence to be offered such an opportunity and it is something I would advise anyone from any background or culture to grab with both hands.