We conducted a small interview to know more about Akshay’s journey, but before that, let’s see how he did on the BCAPS parameters according to his team-members.
Being Curious:
Akshay was given the task to take Subsidex to the next level which was a completely new industry for him. He did not back away from the challenge to not just learn about the product and the industry but his curiosity led him to understand the smaller nuances and challenges which are involved in dealing with the customers as well as their processes.
Customer Centricity:
Akshay’s curiosity led him to understand “What’s in it for the customer” extremely well and kept positioning Subsidex to the customer from their perspective.
In the case of Khaitan Fertilizers, he has shown excellent control over the process of sales and after sales to ensure the customer gets what they need to make Subsidex successful not only for Neebal but also for the customer. Constantly reaching out to them to make sure we are aligned to their success.
Accountability:
Akshay has truly owned up to the sales of Subsidex by ensuring he leaves no stones unturned, no customer contact unreached and no channel unexplored.
During the implementation of Subsidex for Khaitan Fertilizers, he has been involved in every step to ensure our internal team understands the expectations of the customer well while keeping the customer’s expectations in check. It is great to see him take so much ownership and accountability of not just the sales process but also that of customer success.
Perseverance:
When the pandemic hit, the customers were all on the fence with no one committing to new investments. It took a lot of effort and a continuous one at that to show them the value of Subsidex especially during the pandemic.
We faced multiple blowouts and yet Akshay kept persevering towards our target and was able to bring two new customers on board; Khaitan Fertilizers and Mosaic Fertilizers which are both great names to have as part of our Subsidex clientele.
Stewardship:
Akshay was asked if he would pick up additional responsibility to support our growth in the international markets along with a focus on Subsidex and his simple response was “sure”. He is not only driving Subsidex towards success but has been able to identify multiple opportunities in the international market as well by identifying very innovative channels to hunt leads.
He regularly attends various events to meet new prospects and shares what he learns from these events with the team. Very subtly he has been raising the bar of the sales team by leading by example on many such facets.
This is what Akshay said in his interview
How did you start your journey at Neebal?
I started my journey here during the lockdown. It was altogether a different and a new way to start the journey with a new company. Perhaps I was the first employee to be hired during the lockdown.
What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment?
I managed to take over the lead of a team that was failing in a competition. From that point, we turned out to be the winner for that event, and that is when I set out on a journey to explore my management strength.
What motivates you?
The will to accomplish what you are set out for. The thought process to finish things immaterial of the obstacles is very important.
Who inspires you?
There have been many such personalities. Off late Virat Kohli.
What are the activities/value systems that made you achieve this great milestone?
1. To set priorities
2. Discipline to follow through
3. Eliminate Distractions
How do you deal with stress in life and at work?
I take my time off from work every week. I ensure not to have workdays or extra work hours on weekends if possible. I try to then go on solitude or my time alone.
What is the biggest challenge facing sales personnel today?
Productivity in terms of personal times.
What advice would you give someone that is just starting out?
Learn to enjoy the process not end goals.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I spend some weekends binge-watching series.
What is one characteristic that you believe every sales personnel should possess?
Discipline
What has your experience at Neebal been like so far?
It has been a very wonderful journey. I have made a transition from different industry. The team I am working with is really supportive. The entire company has a very vibrant energy.
3 most played songs on your playlist?
I have Lootera Album (The only songs on my phone)
What is the best book you have read?
Psycho Cybernetics
Your all-time favourite Series/Movie?
3 Idiots.
What are your current goals?
To achieve further academic excellence if possible and work up towards bigger responsibilities.
How do you relate your responsibilities to Neebal’s goals?
Neebal has provided me with a platform wherein I can build on the requirements that help me grow better and stronger. I think I am in a company that is aggressive towards future growth, supporting your aggression of future growth.
What is your relationship with your team and how do they affect your work? OR How important is being a part of a team?
I think, currently, the best place to be is in Neebal Sales. I have a strong support system within the team and beyond. I would have to thank each member of the sales team for supporting and sharing responsibilities to achieve goals. It is important to have a team that respects your way of working and vision. As is said, You are only as good as your team.
What do you like most about working at Neebal?
Again the entire work ecosystem is wonderful. I have seen that everyone working here demonstrates some sort of maturity and holds himself responsible to deliver tasks. This motivates others working around as well. Having said that everyone also respects others, which is very important for any organization.
What’s your proudest professional accomplishment?
I think to captain a company in turbulent times has been a wonderful experience, wherein we grew within the same time. Personally, I feel the best professional accomplishment for me.
Topics: Life at Neebal, BCAPS, Neebal Celebrates