We all know that there is no specific educational route into becoming a Sales Development Representative. That doesn’t mean that just anyone can do it though. It requires life skills, soft skills, some things self-learnt and some things taught. Above all else though, having a belief in yourself and a desire to get the job done, even when it seems like the world is against you, is essential. This is the character and inner confidence we look for. Of course, our SDRs all have these qualities in abundance but despite the common traits, they are all individuals, and they all found their own route here. That’s why we thought now was the time to gain a greater insight into some of our brightest stars.    

In this instance, we asked Belend to share his story with us.

Professional Philosophy

“When you get an opportunity, it’s your chance to prove yourself.“

I arrived in the Netherlands a little over twenty years ago and this has been my home ever since. So, aside from kindergarten, my entire formal education has been here. That’s why in secondary school I started to assess my options as I knew at some point, I’m going to have to go down a particular path to find a career. Without a clear idea of where that path would take me, I chose to study Commercial Economics.   

After finishing my degree, I took a job as an account manager at the logistics company DHL. The job involved managing the accounts of high-end customers, but this wasn’t a fit for me or my education, so I wanted to leave and get into sales. After searching through my network, I saw that there was a job opening at Aexus and asked a friend if he could put me forward and within three interviews, I had a contract. This is one of the things I really like about Aexus. They are direct and they don’t mess you around. 

I was a little concerned that my lack of knowledge about high technology would make the job really difficult for me but if you work hard and you are prepared to learn, then you can make it here. This is another good point about Aexus. They will always give you a chance. You are presented with an opportunity and it’s up to you to make the most of it. 

One of the important things about Aexus is to be flexible. Every day brings new challenges so you have to be able to adjust quickly and maybe even have to think on your feet from time to time. You have to do this between your partners of course because they all have their own ideas and certain ways they want things done.

If I could only give one piece of advice to someone considering becoming an SDR – Carpe Diem!