Staying Visible as an IT Professional: 5 Practical Ways to Find New Projects

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The market for freelance IT professionals is shifting. A few years ago, you might have had your pick of multiple projects, but now you may notice demand slowing down. Clients are becoming more cautious. New legislation, economic uncertainty, and concerns around false self-employment are causing hesitation.

That’s exactly why it’s so important to stay active right now. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—make sure you remain visible and appealing to potential clients.

Here are 5 practical actions you can take today:

1. Keep your profile up to date
Many clients and recruiters search directly on LinkedIn or platforms like Freelance.nl. If your profile isn’t up to date, you simply won’t get found.
✅ List your current and recent projects
✅ Highlight your specialties and tools you work with
✅ Mention your availability
✅ Include contact details (not everyone will send a connection request)

Tip: Fill in the “summary” section with a short, clear description of who you are and what you do. For example: “Senior DevOps engineer with experience in Kubernetes, Terraform, AWS. Available from April.”

2. Proactively reach out to your network
Many projects come through former clients or colleagues. So make use of your network.
🔹 Send a short message to former clients, collaborators, or colleagues
🔹 Let them know you’re available
🔹 Ask if they know of any opportunities or could refer you to someone

It doesn’t have to be long or complicated. A short, personal message is often more effective than a general LinkedIn post.

3. Share what you’re working on (even if you’re in between projects)
A quick LinkedIn update about a completed project, a new tool you’re learning, or a technical challenge you’ve solved shows that you’re still active.

No need for a 10-paragraph story. Something like this works just fine:
🛠️ “Recently optimized a CI/CD pipeline using GitHub Actions. Result: 30% faster deployment time. Curious to learn more? Feel free to reach out.”

4. Join the G-Nius community
Our unique WhatsApp community keeps you effortlessly informed about new freelance projects tailored to your skills and expertise. No more spending hours searching—we bring the right opportunities directly to you.

We regularly post freelance IT projects across different specializations.
Want to join? Send a WhatsApp message to Valerie van Arkel at +31 6 52 67 65 28.

5. Think beyond freelancing
Sometimes it’s worth exploring alternative work models. For example: midlancing—offering more financial stability while still working on a project basis. In uncertain times, this might just make the difference.

At G-Nius, we speak with many IT professionals who temporarily choose a more stable setup without giving up their freedom.

In Conclusion: Keep Moving Forward
A quiet market can be frustrating—but it’s also an opportunity. Now’s the time to:
✅ Sharpen your profile
✅ Reconnect with your network
✅ Increase your visibility
✅ Explore other work models if needed

Need help or want to brainstorm about your situation?
Let us know—we’re happy to think along with you.

Wat betekent de wet DBA voor zzp’ers

What does the DBA law mean for freelancers?

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What does the DBA law mean for freelancers?

Freelancing has evolved significantly in recent years, partly due to changing legislation such as the Deregulation of Labour Relations Assessment Act (DBA law) and the newer version, the Fixed Hiring of Labour Relations Act (VBAR). Both clients and freelancers need to stay informed about these regulations to avoid unnecessary risks and ensure sustainable collaborations. In this blog, we explain what the DBA law means and the impact it has on working as a freelancer.

What is the DBA law?

The DBA law was introduced in 2016 to replace the Declaration of Employment Status (VAR). The goal of this law is to combat false self-employment. In practice, this means that the Tax Authority checks whether the relationship between a client and a freelancer is truly an independent working relationship or if there is a disguised employment relationship. The government aims to prevent freelancers from performing the same tasks as employees without having the same rights and obligations.

Under the DBA law, responsibility lies not only with the freelancer but also with the client. Both parties must establish that there is no hierarchical relationship or obligation for personal labor. This must be documented in an agreement, often referred to as a model contract. This proves that the freelancer works independently and not under the same conditions as an employee.

What does the DBA law mean for freelancers?

For freelancers, it’s crucial to demonstrate that they operate as independent contractors. Assignments must be well-documented, and any suggestion of a hierarchical relationship with the client should be avoided. Freelancers must also meet the entrepreneurship criteria set by the Tax Authority.

Disadvantages of the DBA law for freelancers

In practice, the introduction of the law caused significant uncertainty for both clients and freelancers. The rules were not always clear and were interpreted differently by various parties.

As a result, many clients chose to hire fewer freelancers to avoid potential penalties. This led to a decrease in available work for freelancers and created uncertainty in the market.

To reduce these uncertainties, the government decided in 2018 to largely suspend the enforcement of the DBA law. However, this does not mean the law is no longer in effect; clients must still demonstrate that their collaboration with a freelancer complies with the regulations. The suspension mainly applies to clients acting “in good faith,” but not to those deliberately promoting false self-employment.

Read more: All about false self-employment for freelancers.

The DBA law in 2025

Starting January 1st, 2025, the government will take a stricter stance against false self-employment by abolishing the enforcement moratorium. This means that the Tax Authority will intensify its checks on disguised employment relationships.

Additionally, a new legislative proposal is being developed called ‘Clarification of Labour Relations Assessment and Presumption of Employment (VBAR)’. This proposal aims to better protect freelancers and encourage employers to offer fair employment contracts.

The impact of the DBA law on freelancers

With the removal of the enforcement moratorium, the Tax Authority will intensify checks on false self-employment. This means freelancers must be better prepared, take on more responsibility, and critically assess their working relationships.

Freelancers must stay informed about legislation and manage their contracts carefully to avoid issues.

By staying updated on the latest legal developments, you ensure your working relationships comply with current regulations, prevent surprises, and foster sustainable collaborations.

Do you want to make sure everything is in order as a freelancer? We are happy to help you eliminate all risks and review the necessary documents, so you don’t have to worry. Contact us for advice on the DBA law without obligation.

Hoe kan AI helpen bij het vinden van een baan

How can AI help in finding a job?

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Job hunting can be a challenging process. Fortunately, with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI), this process is becoming more efficient. AI technology enables computers and machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. This can assist in various ways when it comes to finding a job. In this blog, we will guide you through the possibilities of AI to make your search for a new job or assignment easier and more successful.

Why AI is the future of job applications

AI is changing the job application process by making it more efficient and personalized. With capabilities like optimizing resumes, simulating interviews, and even providing career advice, AI assists job seekers at every step of their journey. It also opens doors to looking beyond standard application methods, such as automatically matching skills with jobs you might not have considered. This makes the process smoother and more effective for job seekers and employers.

Find the right job faster AI-powered job search engines save you time by filtering jobs that match your profile, preferences, and work experience. Instead of endlessly scrolling through job listings, these platforms automatically analyze your skills and interests and present you with the most relevant vacancies.

Additionally, AI platforms can automatically match your profile with jobs that perfectly align with your skills and experience. Algorithms analyze your profile and the content of the job postings, and based on that your profile is matched with jobs you might otherwise overlook. This makes the job search process much more efficient and gives you more time to prepare your applications.

AI tools to support the application process

Smart job search engines: AI-based platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed offer personalized job recommendations.

Resume optimization: Tools like Jobscan analyze your resume and suggest improvements to better match job requirements.

Automated job matching: Glassdoor and ZipRecruiter use AI to match your profile with relevant vacancies.

Interview simulation: HireVue provides AI-driven simulations and feedback to improve your interview skills.

Networking: LinkedIn uses AI to suggest relevant connections and expand your network.

Skills analysis and career advice: LinkedIn Learning and Coursera help you improve your skills based on labor market analysis by recommending specific courses.

Chatbots for support: Mya is an AI chatbot that guides applicants through the application process, assisting with questions and updates during the process.

Sentiment analysis and personality tests: Crystal analyzes your online profile and helps you gain insight into how you appear to employers.

By using these tools, AI can speed up your job application process, enhance your profile, and help you find the right job that suits you faster.

How can I protect my data when using AI?

To protect your data when using AI, it is essential to be mindful of the platforms and tools you choose. Many AI systems collect personal information, such as your resume, contact details, and sometimes even your search history. Therefore, paying close attention to how this data is processed is crucial. Always check the privacy policies of AI tools and ensure they comply with the applicable privacy laws, such as the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). This ensures that your data is stored securely and used only for legitimate purposes. Additionally, you can ensure that sensitive information, such as your address or full personal details, is only shared when necessary. Use strong passwords and consider enabling two-factor authentication to further secure your accounts.

The power of human input

It’s a fact that AI can make finding a new job or assignment easier. Technologies are evolving rapidly, and tools are improving as a result. But no matter how good the tools are, they remain automated programs. Never forget the power of human input. Don’t blindly rely on AI-generated documents; always personalize them. Have letters and resumes reviewed by someone else to catch any errors that AI tools might have missed.

Need help reviewing your resume? Contact our recruiter Valerie van Arkel at vvarkel@g-nius.nl. She will be happy to assist you.

Als IT freelancer een opdracht vinden

Successfully finding a job as an IT freelancer

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For an IT freelancer, finding new assignments can sometimes be a challenging task. The competition is fierce, clients are becoming more demanding, and technology is constantly evolving. However, with the right strategy, you can significantly increase your chances. To help you in your search, we’re sharing valuable tips to make your hunt for freelance IT assignments easier and more successful.

Why work as a freelancer?

Working as an IT freelancer offers several benefits. You can choose projects that interest you and enjoy the flexibility of working wherever and whenever you want. Many IT professionals choose freelancing to work independently and set their own schedules. Additionally, freelance IT assignments can be financially rewarding, as you often have the ability to set your own rates.

As a freelancer, you work independently and are responsible for finding assignments yourself. This can be challenging, but the following tips will provide guidance to help you find assignments that fit your profile.

Build your network

Networking is crucial in the IT world, especially for freelancers. Many assignments are filled through referrals before they even appear on a platform or job site. Ensure you are visible and active within your professional network, whether it’s online through LinkedIn or in person at events and meetups.

Tip: Be active in online communities like GitHub, Stack Overflow, or specific tech groups on LinkedIn. Not only can you make valuable connections, but you can also showcase your expertise.

Choose the right platforms

Not every freelance platform is suitable for IT assignments, and some platforms are more specialized within certain IT fields. Look for platforms that align with your expertise or work with specialized IT staffing agencies.

Tip: Register on multiple platforms, but avoid using the same generic profile on all of them. Tailor your profiles to the type of clients you encounter on each platform.

Bonus Tip: Join the G-Nius WhatsApp community. This will keep you informed about new IT freelance assignments that match your skills and field of expertise.

Keep your profile up to date

A strong and up-to-date profile on platforms like LinkedIn or freelancer-specific websites is invaluable. Recruiters and clients often search these platforms directly for available freelancers. Make sure your profile is always updated with your latest projects, skills, and certifications.

Tip: Add concrete examples of your work, such as a project where you helped improve an application or performed a system upgrade. This makes your profile more appealing.

Applying effectively as a freelance IT professional

When applying for an assignment, always submit a personalized, tailored application. Avoid generic messages where you only paste your resume. Carefully read the job description and specifically address the requirements and preferences of the client.

Tip: Mention similar projects you’ve worked on and explain how your experience aligns with the specific assignment. This shows you’re not only qualified but also that you understand the project.

Bonus Tip: Check out our IT resume checklist.

Keep learning and get certified

The IT world changes quickly. Technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity are constantly evolving. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and continuously learning new skills will give you an edge over competitors who don’t.

Tip: Obtain relevant certifications that align with your area of expertise. These certifications not only increase your value but also help recruiters find you more easily.

Build long-term relationships with clients

One-off assignments can lead to long-term collaborations. This increases the likelihood that clients will come back to you for future projects.

Tip: Make sure not only to complete the project satisfactorily but also to communicate professionally and meet deadlines.

Ask for recommendations

A strong recommendation can make a big difference for an IT freelancer when trying to secure a new assignment. Ask previous clients or colleagues to write recommendations on LinkedIn or through freelance platforms. Potential clients value the opinions of others, especially when it comes to freelance work.

Tip: Specifically ask for recommendations that highlight both your technical skills and your soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

Stay visible during the assignment

Even during an ongoing assignment, it’s important to maintain your network and visibility. Continue networking and being active on platforms. This ensures you’re ready for the next assignment as soon as your current contract ends.

Tip: Occasionally share updates about your work (if NDAs allow) or post about what you’re learning during a project. This gives others insight into your current projects and enhances your expert status in your field.

The search for freelance IT assignments

Finding freelance IT assignments requires perseverance and a strategic approach. By using the right platforms, networking, and building a strong profile, you can improve your chances in the market. Keep improving yourself and stay up-to-date with your skills to stand out in the competitive world of IT freelancing.

Want more tips and guidance on finding IT assignments? Contact us for personal advice and assistance in finding your next project! Together, we’ll ensure your career as a freelance IT professional continues to grow.

Still unsure if freelancing is the right fit for you? Check out our medium-lance option.

CV checklist for IT professionals

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10 verschillen tussen solliciteren nu en 10 jaar geleden

10 differences between job applications now and 10 years ago

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Curious about how job applications have changed over the past decade? In this article, we’ll explore the 10 most significant differences. Keep reading for valuable insights that can assist you in finding suitable professionals or your ideal job!

1. Digital Transformation: One of the most noticeable changes is the complete digitization of the job application process. Ten years ago, paper resumes and cover letters were common. Now, nearly everything happens online, from job searches to submitting applications and attending virtual interviews.

2. Automated Screenings: Many companies now utilize automated screening systems to analyze resumes and select suitable candidates based on predefined criteria. These systems use artificial intelligence and algorithms to streamline the hiring process, a practice that was less common or even unthinkable a decade ago.

3. Rise of Social Media: Social media and professional networks have become integral parts of the job application process. Candidates can use platforms like LinkedIn to present themselves and network with potential employers, a practice less common ten years ago.

4. Remote Job Applications: Thanks to technological advancements, remote job interviews have become much more common in 2024, allowing candidates to apply for jobs from the comfort of their homes. This provides employers with a larger pool of potential candidates. Ten years ago, remote job interviews were less common, with more emphasis placed on in-person meetings.

10 Differences Between Job Searching Now and 10 Years Ago

5. Personal Branding: Personal branding has become essential for job seekers to stand out. By showcasing who you are, what you stand for, and how you differentiate yourself, you can leave a lasting impression on potential employers. Want to learn more about this topic? Read our latest article on personal branding.

6. Transparency and Feedback: Employers now offer more transparency in the job application process and provide feedback to candidates. This makes the application process more transparent and shorter, helping candidates better understand where they stand.

7. Flexibility in Work Environment: In 2024, flexible working, including remote and partially remote work, is much more prevalent than before. Job seekers often have the option to choose jobs with flexible hours and locations, contributing to a better work-life balance. These benefits can influence candidates’ job application decisions.

8. Diversity and Inclusion: There is a greater emphasis on diversity and inclusion in the job application process. Employers increasingly value a diverse and inclusive workforce, which has become a significant part of many company cultures. Compared to ten years ago, sharing these values has become an essential part of recruitment campaigns.

9. Skill-Based Hiring: Skill-based hiring focuses on competencies and skills rather than education and work experience. Employers assess candidates based on their ability to perform job tasks effectively. Required competencies are defined, and professionals demonstrate their skills, for example, through assessments.

10. AI as a Tool: AI can assist job seekers by providing personalized job recommendations, optimizing resumes and cover letters, and guiding job application processes through chatbots. This makes the job application process more efficient and effective, giving candidates better chances of finding suitable jobs.

Job Applications in 2024

Over the past decade, the job application process has undergone drastic changes due to digitization, automated screening systems, and the rise of social media.

Through the use of personal branding, job seekers can differentiate themselves in the job market. AI tools can assist in drafting resumes and cover letters by providing suggestions for improvements and highlighting keywords important for automated screening systems.

Employers are paying more attention to transparency, feedback, diversity, and inclusion in their hiring processes. Flexible working has become commonplace for many of them, and skills-based hiring is on the rise. These practices increase the candidate pool, giving them a better chance of finding the right professional. Additionally, AI solutions can make the process more efficient and effective.

Hoe vind je de perfecte ICT-vacatures

How to Find the Perfect ICT Jobs

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Are you working in the IT sector? Then finding the perfect ICT jobs can be a challenging task. With an abundance of vacancies and various specialisations, it’s crucial to follow a structured approach. In this blog, we provide you with a step-by-step guide to effectively search for and apply to suitable IT jobs.

Understand your own skills and goals

Self-assessment: Start by analyzing your social and technical skills, experience, and knowledge. Make a list of your key skills, such as programming languages, tools, and frameworks you master. Also, map out your social skills and competencies.

Career goals: Think about what you want to achieve in your career. Are you looking for a position with advancement opportunities, a specific work culture, or perhaps a certain salary?

Create a CV

With a strong CV, you can distinguish yourself from other professionals. It is important that recruiters immediately see what makes you suitable for the role. To help you with this, we provide a brief explanation on how to build a CV.

Shape your Personal Brand

Personal profile: After conducting a good analysis of your knowledge, experience, and skills, you can create a personal profile. Describe who you are and what sets you apart from other candidates.

Show who you are: Once you have a clear personal brand, it’s time to present it to the outside world. The way you present yourself and how you communicate should align with your personality. LinkedIn is a strong platform that can help with this.

Networking and social media

LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile and use the networking platform to connect with professionals in the IT sector. Follow companies you are interested in and stay updated on their latest vacancies.

Professional networks: Join IT networks and communities, both online and offline. Participation in conferences, meetups, and webinars can lead to valuable contacts and undiscovered ICT vacancies.

Prepare for job interviews

Prepare common questions: Prepare for commonly asked interview questions. These can be questions about you as a person as well as your technical knowledge. Soft skills: Work on presenting your soft skills, such as communication and teamwork. IT roles often require the ability to effectively collaborate and solve problems as part of a team.

Company research: Conduct thorough research on the company you are applying to. Understand their mission, vision, products, and services. This demonstrates that you are interested and well-prepared.

Clothing choice: Make sure you are dressed appropriately for the company culture. This can range from formal to casual, depending on the company.

Prepare questions: Prepare some questions to ask during the interview. This shows your interest in the role and the company and helps you determine if the role is right for you.

Collaborate with a staffing agency

Benefits of staffing: Staffing agencies often have a wide network of companies and can help you find temporary, project-based, and permanent positions. This can lead to diverse work experience and rapid career development.

Tailored support: Staffing agencies often provide tailored support, such as career guidance, training, and coaching. They can help you sharpen your skills and be better prepared for new challenges. Networking opportunities: By working with a staffing agency, you expand your professional network, which can enhance future career opportunities.

The search for ICT Jobs

Finding the perfect IT vacancies requires a combination of self-awareness, using various search channels, and taking a proactive approach. By having clear skills and goals, using effective search strategies, collaborating with staffing agencies, and being well-prepared for job interviews, you increase your chances of finding the ideal job in the IT sector. Good luck with your search!

Hoe word je zichtbaar op LinkedIn

How do I become visible on LinkedIn?

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Looking for a freelance assignment, a new job, or an internship? Make sure you’re visible on LinkedIn. The social platform for professionals offers an excellent opportunity to present yourself to a global network of peers and potential employers. But how do you stand out in the crowd? Here are some valuable tips to increase your visibility on LinkedIn:

Optimize your LinkedIn profile

One of the first steps to becoming visible on LinkedIn is to have a comprehensive and polished profile. Ensure that your profile is fully filled out and optimized for keywords relevant to your industry. A clear profile picture and a catchy headline emphasizing your expertise immediately grab attention.

Share valuable content

Regularly post updates and articles that are interesting to your target audience. This can range from industry updates and tips to personal insights and successes. By sharing valuable content, you establish yourself as an authority within your field.

Be active in groups

Join relevant LinkedIn groups and actively participate in discussions. By sharing your expertise and answering others’ questions, you not only increase your visibility but also build valuable relationships with other professionals.

Network actively

Expand your network by actively adding people who are relevant to your field. Send personalized invitations and don’t forget to add a personalized message explaining why you’d like to connect.

Use Rich Media

Utilize visual elements such as images, videos, and presentations to make your profile and posts more attractive. Visual content grabs more attention and can help reinforce your message.

Be consistent

Consistency is essential for strong visibility on LinkedIn. Make sure you’re regularly active on the platform, both by posting new content and by responding to comments and messages from others.

By applying these tips, you’ll become more visible on LinkedIn and distinguish yourself as a leading professional in your field.

More tips?

Would you like more tips on how to present yourself through personal branding? Then listen to our podcast (in Dutch) here.

#7 in the series ‘Interview Questions’

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In this series, our colleague Michael Bandel addresses a question each time to help you provide the right answer during an introductory interview. This week, we focus on the questions Michael himself asks during an introductory interview for a sales role. It’s crucial to ask the right questions to gain a deep understanding of the organization and the role.

These questions provide a comprehensive view of the organization, the sales professionals, and the sales process. They also shed light on your position as a professional and what you need to work on. These are the same questions I often ask my clients, as the answers often reveal more than what’s outlined in a job profile.

1. What are the key characteristics of the best sales professionals here?

As a professional, you want to understand where you stand and what you need to develop. Do your qualities align with those of the organization and the team? I gained a good impression of the sales team, and it gave me an opportunity to showcase my own qualities and how I could add value to the sales team.

2. What unique challenges do the sales teams face in today’s landscape?

As you prepare for your new role in this company, it’s essential to know what challenges they encounter and how they address them. Does the organization provide a platform for discussing and resolving these challenges? What steps can you take to prepare yourself optimally for your new role? Do you recognize these challenges, and how have you dealt with them in the past?

3. How are sales processes structured?

Is there transparency in how the process flows and what steps are involved? Who handles what tasks, such as creating quotes and follow-ups? Is there collaboration, and does management get involved? These are practical considerations that require thought and preparation. How can you ensure that you add value quickly, and in what ways can the organization support you? How have you tackled these aspects in your past experience?

4. What are your goals for the next 3, 6, and 12 months in this role?

Understanding the expectations and how realistic they are provides insight into whether the role aligns with your aspirations. Additionally, gaining insight into the necessary steps to meet these goals and the organization’s current standing is crucial. I used this information to create a plan for achieving targets and to specify where I needed assistance to become fully operational as quickly as possible.

5. Who manages lead generation?

Is this your sole responsibility, or do you receive support from the sales team or the marketing department? Are there trade shows or events? Who handles lead follow-up? This gave me an understanding of how this process is organized and what I need to do to acquire and qualify leads. It also presented an opportunity for me to share concrete examples of how I have successfully handled this in the past.

What questions do you ask an organization?

#6 in the series ‘Interview Questions’

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We’re back with a new question in the ‘Interview Questions’ series. Michael Bandel is here to assist you in providing the right answer during an introductory interview by sharing his expertise. This week, Michael answers the question: ‘Why do you work in Sales?’

Question: “Why do you work in sales?“

Quite an open-ended question, but with a potential pitfall. “I stumbled into it, I don’t know any better.” Those are not the answers someone wants to hear from a sales professional.

Answer: What they want to know is: for any profession, it’s generally assumed that individuals choose it consciously. Especially for sales. Sales is a profession, not just a calling. Make sure you can articulate what appeals to you, how persistent you are, and where your drive comes from. If you can’t do this convincingly, it might seem like you’re in Sales for the wrong reason, the €€€ (bonus).

A possible answer could be:

“Even at a young age, I enjoyed selling things. Later, that evolved into understanding what the customer’s real needs are. Asking questions. Digging deeper. Discovering ways to add value.

This enabled me to close better deals for both the customer and the organization. Longer sales cycles, more stakeholders, and greater revenue responsibility. Continuing to learn and develop. Being persistent, especially when facing challenges.

This doesn’t come automatically, it’s a process of trial and error. The uncertainty that comes with it; will we close the deal? What else do we need to do? Can we add more value somewhere?

The tension that brings; we’re on the verge of closing. The feeling you get when it’s successful, it’s fantastic.

Hard work pays off, and when you can solve problems for clients or create opportunities, you’re adding value. That’s why I work in sales.”