Gaining insights into the daily work of a sales manager

Apprentice sales trips since 2007

Since 2007, we have regularly sent our apprentices on sales trips, thereby allowing them to gain valuable insights into other companies and the world of sales work.

Except during the pandemic, second or third-year HERMLE AG apprentices usually spend three days with our German-speaking outside sales staff, both nationally and internationally. This development opportunity was initiated by the HERMLE management. It gives the apprentices a chance to familiarise themselves with the practical applications of HERMLE machines in various real-world scenarios, to discover diverse use cases and to experience the business organisations of our customers. But most of all, they get a real feel of what it is like to work in sales. From customer acquisition, through quotation discussions and order negotiations, to dealing with complaints: Sales staff have to tailor their approach to each customer differently.

This networking and the resulting understanding provide significant long-term advantages – in two respects. Firstly, all the apprentices have a keen eye for the customers and sales – regardless of which department they ultimately end up in. Secondly, it helps foster the relationships that define our working environment. True to the maxim: “We at HERMLE know each other!” We liken this cross-departmental collaboration to a gear, where each individual gearwheel plays a crucial role: The more perspectives are exchanged, the smoother the gearwheels mesh.

The apprentice sales trips boost both collaboration and understanding among team members. This makes all the organisational effort worthwhile. And our customers are frequently impressed and eager to support the training programme. Moreover, one or two of the apprentices really enjoy the experience of working in sales and decide to join the HERMLE sales team after completing their vocational training.