An interview with Randy, Sales Executive
What happens in a typical day in your position?
Most of my day is spent in the field working with customers to figure out how we can work as a team to meet their needs. I work with third-party providers, engineers, development executives, marketing, and a variety of finance folks to craft complex solutions that genuinely help the customers and continue to grow Apple's reputation for complete end-to-end support. I frequently train customers and their support staff and I work with everyone from the most senior members of an organization to students in a kindergarten.
Much of the Apple experience requires employees to define the ‘how’. In other words, they determine how things get done. This is terrific for self-starters because while an employee has ample resources within the company, creativity and self-discovery are encouraged. Employees are encouraged to be individuals and to follow their own strategies to success.
A portion of my day is spent strategizing with teammates regarding upcoming projects and proposals, and I examine financial metrics to determine the best ways to spend my time and grow our market. One of my favorite tasks is working with teammates to schedule visits and presentations for new customers who want to learn about existing projects that could provide solutions. So much of our work is self-defined that it is helpful to have input from colleagues and peers regarding best practices.
What is the most interesting project that you worked on and why?
The San Jose Unified School District "Vertical Slice" Project has been inspirational to work on because it has required so many people from so many backgrounds to come together to create an amazing program for students, teachers, and families.
For more about this project: Profiles in Success: Gunderson High School, Beating the Odds
How does Apple compare to other companies you have worked for?
Apple has the most creative, energetic, and passionate people I have ever worked with. It is replete with folks who have a variety of experiences and interests beyond high tech which expands conversations and spurs creativity.
Much of the Apple experience requires employees to define the "how." In other words, they determine how things get done. This is terrific for self-starters because while an employee has ample resources within the company, creativity and self-discovery are encouraged. Employees are encouraged to be individuals and to follow their own strategies to success.
Describe a situation outside of work where you were proud to be an Apple employee.
I was at a mall and I overheard a conversation between the mother of a physically challenged girl in a wheelchair and her friend. In the course of the conversation the mother said, "Thank God for our Apple computers, without them I don't think Andrea could do so much." The girl signaled her approval by laughing and gesturing and the mother went on to talk about how the computer attached to the wheelchair and allowed her to talk, and how they used iSight to visit with family members who are far away. It made me feel like our products were really helping people.