As more companies move to cut costs by abandoning on-site data centers, the demand for cloud computing services continues to thrive. This is good news for in-demand salespeople because customers are looking forward to change.
Demand for cloud services is set to grow another 20% this year alone, and spending is set to reach $494 billion worldwide, according to the management consultancy. Gartner.
With a large number of customers on hand, major cloud service providers Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud are seeking market share and top-tier sales talent.
California sales representatives at Amazon Web Services can earn between $132,000 and $185,000, while sales engineers at Google Cloud in California can earn anywhere from $151,000 to $186,000, according to US work visa data.
Insider previously reported how major companies have been fighting to attract the best salespeople in the business, whether that’s by renewing bonus packages or snatching talent from competitors.
Data previously collected by Insider revealed that cloud sales reps at the likes of Google and AWS can earn up to $185,000 annually.
Recruiters and executives at major cloud companies have given their tips for getting a high paying job in cloud sales.
Experience is not everything in cloud sales
Salespeople often help customers make decisions about how to adopt and use the cloud. They’ll also need a working understanding of the cloud, and AWS Cloud Practitioner Certifications can provide that, says Kevin Kelly, the company’s director of education programs.
Cloud sales reps focus on selling cloud directly, or cloud-based products, so they need to explain why these services are important to customers and why they should be interested in building apps on the cloud.
Kelly says certification can help do that, and AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Qualification can help them stand out. “I think curiosity, willingness to learn, and enthusiasm for space is a must,” Kelly said.
Michel Verhoeven, managing director of SAP’s UK and Ireland division, said that while a basic understanding of the company’s products is important, sales are a “team sport”.
“We have specialized experts ready to support and include the new candidates,” he said. “We’re looking for born influencers who can make a real impact in the world by helping top companies change the way they do business.”
In Google Cloud, recruiters search “hundreds of thousands of resumes each year,” according to strategy and operations VP Kelly Ducourty, but there’s no reason why less experienced candidates shouldn’t apply.
“There isn’t a single company or industry we’re hiring from,” Docorte told Insider. “This ensures that we bring unique perspectives and backgrounds to the team.
“No matter your level of experience, we are always on the lookout for smart candidates who demonstrate the ability to take ownership, transcend ambiguity, have a passion for excellence, and focus on achieving the best results for the client.”
Your interview is not necessarily the last chance for success
Docorte said that in Google Cloud, candidates will generally go through a four-stage interview process, covering knowledge of roles, leadership skills, cognitive ability, and their fit within the company’s internal culture.
“Even if someone isn’t a perfect fit for the role, if they do well in interviews, they can re-enter the talent pool for other positions,” she said.
She added, “During the interview process, just be yourself and be honest with who you are. There’s a reason you’ve really come to your farthest.” “Authenticity will take you far.”
Verhoeven said the interview process at SAP is “largely dependent on the level of the role.” “It can be a simple two-step process after the initial screening, and rise to a slightly longer three-to-four-step process for experienced appointments.”
He continued, “If someone is passionate about a career with a purpose, where you have a chance to make a real difference in the world, they are results-focused, willing to work collaboratively, and understand that their success depends on the success of the client – we encourage that person to apply.
David Hewitt, CEO of IBM, gives potential candidates three basic tips: “First, think about what shaped you when you were growing up, and be prepared to share how that continues to affect you today in the workplace.
“Second, show how you can work and win as a team; IBM customers do not tend to reach the peak of their success through individual contribution alone,” he said. “Finally, be prepared to work hard and be rewarded both personally and professionally.”
