Your Secret Weapon: How Unexpected Experiences Pave Your Way to Tech Sales at Microsoft and Beyond
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Welcome to the Tech Sales Funnels podcast! In this powerful episode, host Davison De Silva sits down with Bernard Smith, a distinguished Cloud Solutions Architect in Cybersecurity and the BAM President at Microsoft. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that dives deep into Bernard's extraordinary journey and uncovers the true meaning of "hacking into tech sales."
Bernard shares his compelling story, starting from humble beginnings in Florida, through his pivotal college experience that ignited his passion for technology, and his determined path from a help desk role to a strategic position at Microsoft. Discover how his unique blend of technical expertise and exceptional soft skills — often overlooked but critical in sales — propelled his career forward.
➡️ Ready to hack your own tech sales career and unlock unprecedented growth? For more exclusive insights, strategies, and resources designed to accelerate your journey, visit
– your ultimate guide to achieving your tech sales aspirations!
Key takeaways from this masterclass episode include:
- The unexpected importance of customer service and communication skills in tech sales.
- How to leverage your "gift of gab" to build lasting relationships and drive success.
- Understanding the diverse roles within the Big Tech sales ecosystem, beyond just account executives.
- Bernard's natural progression from engineer to sales-supporting architect at Microsoft, showcasing internal career growth.
- The power of being a technical expert in a sales role for building trust and streamlining the sales cycle.
Are you looking to break into tech sales or accelerate your career in Big Tech? Bernard provides actionable advice on:
- Building a strong foundation: SaaS models, cloud computing (Azure, AWS, GCP), and current hot trends like AI, Cybersecurity, and Data.
- Developing essential sales skills: cold calling, negotiation, objection handling, and product demos.
- Crafting a compelling resume that highlights your transferable skills and sells YOU.
- Strategically leveraging LinkedIn to network, learn, and land your dream role.
- Preparing effectively for Big Tech interviews and navigating internal opportunities.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming for a high-impact career in technology sales. Bernard also shares insights into his non-profit, the Next Step Initiative, dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth in STEM and leadership.
➡️ Ready to hack your own tech sales career and unlock unprecedented growth? For more exclusive insights, strategies, and resources designed to accelerate your journey, visit https://www.techsalesfunnels.com/ – your ultimate guide to achieving your tech sales aspirations!
🔗 Connect with Davison De Silva on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dayvisson/
🔗 Connect with Bernard Smith Jr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernardasmithjr/
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone ready to transform their career!
24 episodes