A year and a half into the graduate scheme, and I've just embarked on my third placement - Field Sales. This follows a highly rewarding role in activity management (a marketing function that looks after the implementation of new products and changes to existing products). Being in the marketing department, I got a real buzz from having an influence on the new products being launched - whether it be tasting samples, chairing team meetings, or liasing with our Spanish factory to coordinate product trials. This placement has been great in helping to build my commercial understanding, to develop key skills that I can carry forward, and in building relationships with people from all over the business....even as far a field as Spain & Holland!
Life in sales is a complete change of pace & lifestyle. I've transformed into a car-based sales woman overnight! Being out on my own, I find I Miss the day to day contact with people in the office at times, but there's a good team spirit and regular phone calls to make up for it. Plus seeing the other graduates socially & playing netball after work means I keep up with everything that's going on!
I think I'll enjoy the challenge of having targets to hit and I'm raring to
go to see how well I can do. There's so much opportunity.
The great thing about the graduate scheme is that it throws you into different situations, and your challenge is to adapt quickly, and seize the opportunity to learn new skills. In this role, I'm really looking forward to actually selling the products I worked so hard to deliver while working in activity management, and getting a chance to see the customers reactions first hand. (Although I've no doubt they'll love the products!)
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