Alex Preston (30) graduated from Staffordshire University in 1999 with a 2:1 BA(hons) in Geography.
Current Employer and salary
"I work as an Account Director for IT solutions provider, Dataplex Systems,"
Why did you choose sales as a career?
"When I graduated I wasn’t certain which industry I wanted to go into but took a temporary job in gas and electricity sales by way of a stop gap. I wasn’t enjoying the work at all – it was low paid with no prospects and I wanted something with more of a future where I would have the chance to progress and develop my career. When I came across an advert for Pareto Law in a graduate careers prospectus, it stood out as just the thing I was looking for so I gave them a call and was lucky enough to be placed with Dataplex within just three months."
When did you start your career?
"I contacted Pareto towards the end of 1999 and was immediately called for an assessment day. After passing the assessment I went to a couple of different interviews before joining Dataplex in January 2000."
What was the biggest challenge in the sales environment?
"For me, the biggest challenge was getting to grips with the industry. Building up contacts and developing business can be difficult when you are new to sales and new to the industry in which you are selling. It takes a lot of hard work to get up to speed and can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride but practice makes perfect and the more you put in, the more you get out of it."
What have you found to be the best part of your role?
"The rewards that a career in sales can bring are by far the best part of the role. The sales industry is fast moving, dynamic and varied with everything from the thrill of winning a new deal, to developing relationships with clients bringing great job satisfaction. The role is very varied and every day brings something new – from a business meeting with a new prospect, to entertaining clients at the football or rugby. On a financial level, the high salaries and benefits create a good quality of life and I have been lucky enough to travel extensively and invest in property whilst in my twenties."
How has your career progressed?
"I joined Dataplex as an Account Manager in 2000 and progressed to an Account Director role in 2005. My role is very similar, but I work to higher targets and manage larger accounts. My current role has also given me the chance to mentor a new graduate – also from Pareto – and I am supporting and coaching him as he progresses in his role."
How do you see your future developing?
"I would like to progress to manage a small team of junior Account Managers, developing my people management, coaching and mentoring skills. I would also like to grow to manage even bigger clients, learning new skills and taking on new challenges to build my experience."
Is there any advice you’d offer to others considering a career in sales?
"The sales industry can be challenging at times and you have to really put the effort in if you are going to succeed. This can sometimes seem daunting but if you remain committed and look to the long-term benefits, this will help keep you focused. If sales is really where your passion lies, your drive and enthusiasm will help carry you along and will inevitably lead to your success."