Sales Support Intern Review

Supported the account team with forecasting activities, Deals to Go processes, sales reporting, customer outreach, and pipeline management. Shadowed customer meetings and sales calls to develop commercial knowledge and sales skills. Assisted with internal events, supporting planning, coordination, and communications while gaining exposure to the end-to-end sales process.

Yes i was given significant responsibility. Throughout my internship, I was trusted with responsibilities that went beyond my day-to-day role. Alongside supporting forecasting, sales reporting, Deals to Go processes, and customer outreach, I independently designed, launched, and managed a sales incentive programme, including tracking key metrics and reporting performance. I was given accounts to research and opportunities to engage with partners and customers. I also took on leadership responsibilities as Marketing & Communications Lead for the ECC Committee and supported office-wide events through the Site Council and Women at HPE initiatives.

Yes, I have developed a wide range of skills throughout my internship. I strengthened my communication and stakeholder management skills through working with account teams, partners, and customers, as well as participating in customer calls and meetings. I developed my commercial awareness by researching accounts, understanding customer challenges, and learning how opportunities progress through the sales cycle.
I also improved my analytical and organisational skills through forecasting activities, sales reporting, and tracking performance metrics for a sales incentive programme that I designed and managed. My presentation and public speaking skills have grown significantly through attending two careers fairs, where I presented to groups of around 40 students about HPE, career opportunities, and my internship experience. Overall, the internship has increased my confidence, professionalism, and understanding of the sales industry while building on many of the skills I already had.

I received a high level of support and guidance throughout my internship. My manager and wider team were always available to answer questions, provide feedback, and offer advice whenever needed. Regular check-ins and team meetings helped ensure I understood my responsibilities and had the support required to complete tasks successfully. i have 2 aligned mentors which support and help me regularly.

The company culture was welcoming, collaborative, and supportive. I felt included from the start, and colleagues were always approachable and willing to help.
The atmosphere was professional but also enjoyable. The office had facilities such as pool tables and games areas, and there were regular team lunches, food provided at events, and social activities including meals out, clay pigeon shooting, quad biking, and volunteering days. These activities helped build strong relationships across teams.
HPE also places a strong emphasis on learning, development, and inclusion, with plenty of opportunities to get involved in committees, events, and projects beyond your day-to-day role. Overall, it was a positive environment that encouraged both personal and professional growth.

I thoroughly enjoyed my internship and found it to be both rewarding and enjoyable. One of the highlights was being part of a cohort of 44 interns across the UK, including 9 based in Manchester. The programme provided a great opportunity to build strong relationships, and I have made friends that I expect to stay in touch with long after the internship.
I was also fortunate to work within a fantastic team, with supportive managers who invested time in my development and encouraged me to take on new challenges. Combined with HPE's welcoming and inclusive culture, this created an environment where I felt valued and motivated to contribute.
Alongside the social aspect, I enjoyed the variety of work and the opportunity to gain real responsibility, making the internship both personally and professionally rewarding. Overall, it exceeded my expectations and reinforced my desire to pursue a career in sales.

Yes