Public Cloud Technical Sales Review

The role involves working alongside experienced Technical Sellers to progress client opportunities, working on 'random' projects as is useful to the business, and developing the skills and knowledge to be effective. Working with experienced Technical Sellers normally means joining client calls and assisting with pricing or research activities. Sometimes it also involves giving presentations and demonstrations of pricing or the Portal. Random projects have ranged from application framworks, internal reporting measures or internal enablement of other teams. I develop skills and knowledge through discussions with others, plus using the YourLearning courses and practicing with provisioning on the Portal.

I have greatly developed my knowledge of Cloud computing, especially IBM Cloud computing technologies. I have developed existing presentation skills to be more effective and concise, focussing on what clients are interested in. I have improved my ability to research effectively and locate answers in the best places. I have developed a much more thorough understanding of the IT industry and how infrastructure is used by companies, as well as the challenges they face. Finally, I understand how to market and pitch more effectively.

I was given opportunities to be involved with client meetings and deals, including pricing, presentations and demonstrations. This was normally as a 'second', in conjunction with a more experienced person, rather than having primary responsibility for the tasks, however. For internal projects I was given a solid level of involvement and autonomy. Training was provided, however it was my responsibility to seek out more detailed information beyond a certain level. I also was given free time, that I utilitsed to help lead groups and societies outside of my primary role.

I was working within an excellent team. Everyone within the team was willing to support me with questions, however it was sometimes hard to get involved with the projects they worked on. My line manager was supportive with any problems, but had a relatively 'hands-off' approach beyond ~3 months. My Foundation (pastoral/scheme) manager was also very helpful with any isssues, but did not proactively engage with me except for the mandatory review stages of the placement.

IBM has an excellent overall culture, especially within the Foundation (early hires) section of the business. People are overall friendly and supportive, being willing to speak with you even if you do not know them well. There are a lot of special interest communities, both for social events and diversity programs. I have enjoyed attending several social events, both with my team and other members of Foundation, and those events have been both inside and outside of work hours or location. IBM's strong learning culture is very beneficial as an early hire.

Overall, I have enjoyed my internship. It was very different to what I expected, in a different role to what I originally envisioned myself doing. As a result, I have developed a different skillset, but hopefully one which is useful. I am much more confident operating in the business, industry and 'working world'. There were lots of opportunties for fun experiences that I have been able to make the most of. I would rate my enjoyment 4/5.

Yes

I would advise future applicants to apply early, as the scheme can sometimes close early. They should also carefully consider IBM's 8 'Core Competencies' in their application, developing examples that show each of them at work. They should also apply to multiple placements - not just IBM - since the 'matching pool' approach means that you are not guaranteed a role, even if you are judged to be good enough to be hired. This approach can also result in less that ideal roles and some confusion/delay, which is a negative of the hiring process in my opinion.