‘Do not bunk mentoring classes in college’

Mirza Arshad Baig is working as a Strategic Account Manager for Middle East territory in GlobalSign,  A cyber security solutions company. Skilled in business development, sales, relationship building and management, the Apeejay School of Management (ASM) alumnus has a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services sector. Prior to GlobalSign, Arshad worked with To The New as a Senior Technology Consultant. The professional with Marketing and Human Resources specialisation explains about his current job role and shares tips for Apeejayites. Read edited excerpts:

Tell us briefly about your current role and responsibilities at Global Sign?

My role is about closing new business for the organisation as well as handling companies’ major accounts (clients) while cross-selling and up-selling products, irrespective of client’s requirements. Since we are into B2B business, closing new business involves connecting with Tech heads (CTOs/CIOs) of different companies from the Middle East region involving UAE, KSA, Qatar, Kuwait, etc.

What got you interested in your current field? What are the key professional learnings so far?

My major interest in this field is handling big international clients and the ownership of handling the whole business on our own terms. Simultaneously, building the reputation with the clients for the company. A few key professional learnings include: it’s all about communication, product/service knowledge and ownership in sales. 

To work as  a Strategic Account Manager, what are the skills one needs to develop? 

Some of the major skills which one should have for this role are lead generation, great communication and business development. Also, if possible, experience in new-age evolving tech/IT sales is an add on.

Also Read: ‘Apeejay’s mentoring sessions make you corporate-ready’

What was your journey at ASM like? Your takeaways 

Apeejay was literally  “One of the best phases of my life” and I am really thankful to Etinder Pal sir for taking those mentoring classes and preparing us for the interviews in multinational companies. Apeejay gives you exposure and practical learning which are much needed rather than just theoretical studies.

The only advice which I would give is to not bunk your mentoring classes. After a couple of years you will feel its importance!