Josie

BA Education Studies, University of Winchester

What made you decide to apply for a job at Dorset Software?

I was at a stage where I really wanted the option to progress, and the New Business Executive position offered this. I looked at the company values and felt that these aligned with a company I would want to work for. I found out in my interview how long each of the sales team had been here and that was a massive positive in my book, it showed that this was a company that appreciates its people, and they stick around!

What was your training like?

When I started at Dorset Software, I was enrolled on the level 3 It Technical Sales Apprenticeship. This gave me a great foundation of knowledge for my role. Alongside this, I am always supported in my progression by the team and have lots of on-the-job training. Thanks to this, since starting a couple of years ago I’ve progressed from New Business Executive to Account Executive and now Account Manager.

What does a typical week look like?

It’s really varied! A couple of new business meetings, talking to prospects and pitching Dorset Software. I have catch ups with existing clients to see how projects that we are working on are going and to seek new opportunities with them. I will also have internal meetings with our resourcing team, finance team or consultants assigned to my accounts. The sales team have a weekly meeting to discuss our week and update each other on accounts and opportunities. Sometimes, I will be out of office at an event or an in-person meeting with a prospect or client. Of course, there is admin as well! We must make sure contracts and processes are in place, we have supplier onboarding paperwork to navigate as well as communicating leave requests and sickness with our clients. Any time in between all these bits and pieces is time for prospecting, so I am often on LinkedIn connecting with prospects, messaging and networking to try and book new business meetings.

How have you found the cultural and social aspects of life at Dorset Software?

I appreciate Dorset Software’s culture a lot. The importance put on work life balance means we work hard during our working hours but can appreciate time off without having to check emails on a Saturday! There are so many opportunities to socialise, from craft club on a Tuesday lunch time to events put on by Dorset Software. 

Any top tips for someone starting out at Dorset Software?

I would say throw yourself into everything. There is so much that Dorset Software can offer so make the most of it!