Consulting Sales Associate Review

SAP has exceeded all expectations of what a year in industry entails. The development not only in my knowledge, but also in my confidence is immeasurable. The work I have done over the last 13 months has been varied and interesting, and has tested my analytical skills, and also technical knowledge.

The relationships I have formed throughout this year will stick with me for a long time. I have been surrounded by inspiring and intelligent individuals who have shared their vast knowledge with me throughout the year, whilst also providing support and genuine friendship along the way. This year has shown me that there is no such thing as a 'stupid question' - in fact, having an intuitive nature often brings people out of their shell, and allows for deeper, more meaningful conversation.

This year has provided me with a real insight into the nature of a sales organisation, and has helped me understand the rapid change which takes place in a large corporation such as SAP. Having said this, I have had the pleasure of working with several different managers, all with very different managerial styles, but whom all respect, support and encourage equally.

The nature of my role, saw me face predominantly ad-hoc tasks, with daily routine being limited. This provided me with a wide - range of varied tasks i could get my teeth into. Therefore days differed in how busy i was - however, there is always something extra to be doing. The vast portfolio SAP holds means that there is always chance to grow your knowledge, and ensure you have a well-rounded view of what SAP does, and why we do so.

From the outset I was a trusted member of the sales team, and taken to external Customer meetings after just a few weeks. The responsibility and accountability shown here, highlights the autonomy interns have within the business. I never felt as if I was not experienced enough, or didn't have enough knowledge - i was always encouraged to take on more, and grow as a young sales person.

My placement year has embedded some key skills which have been developed through both school and through University. Skills such as communication, adaptability, and analytic skills are some i have developed to name a few. Also organisational skills, and the ability to work to time frames is also something i have mastered this year.

SAP really prioritizes the happiness of its workforce. The nature of sales is fairly stressful and fast paced, and therefore the business ensures that the office is a relaxed environment, with many opportunities to let your hair down, and step out of the day-to-day corporate environment. The new development of the onsite gym is a key example of SAP understanding the wants and needs of its employees, and being dedicated to improving work life.

The work placement was very well organised, and will only improve. In the future, there will be a set 13 month calendar in which certain KPIs have to be met by certain milestones which will ensure a structured placement year. This is also ensures that interns can track their progress, and hopefully have key takeaways from the year.

Development of the intern community has really improved throughout the year. The buddy scheme allows for interns to partner up with someone who will support and champion them throughout work, which really supports the development of them as young talent. We also took part in certified Demand Generation Sales Training which was paid for by the business which highlights the dedication in developing us to the best we can be.

The Sales Academy offered is hugely appealing for prospective sales people, as it provides you with a mix of soft skill training and knowledge transfer for products. I have been successful in gaining a position on the Academy after I graduate, and this is massively exciting There are also other ways to enter the business and therefore as a young person you can get involved in all different areas of the business.

The intern community is a really tight group of friends, and you quickly become friends for life, as you spend day in, day out with eachother. They also act as a great network across the business, and can give you insights into their line of work in a more unofficial way. The social aspect is one of the biggest perks of having a placement at SAP.

The office we were based at is West London, near Heathrow, and therefore there was not the opportunity to socialise in the direct area. However, we do have an office based in Central London which allows us to socialise in the capital, and therefore has access to different restaurants, bars and activities.