Here's how you can address gaps in your Sales Engineering experience during an interview.

I resonate deeply with this approach. Demonstrating how you actively identify and bridge knowledge gaps is crucial. For instance, if I encounter an unfamiliar technology, I not only acknowledge this but also take immediate steps to rectify it, such as enrolling in relevant courses. Discussing specific actions taken to enhance my expertise, and how this newfound knowledge has already brought value to a customer or prospect, showcases my commitment to learning and adaptability. This proactive and coachable attitude is essential in Sales Engineering, where technology and client needs evolve rapidly.

Absolutely, owning your experience gaps is crucial. I'd like to share how my own journey aligns with this approach. In 2022, after being laid off, I shifted into copywriting and I successfully won clients, showcasing my adaptability, communication, and client relationship skills. This entrepreneurial experience, combined with my technical expertise, equips me to quickly learn and excel in Sales Engineering. While your direct Sales Engineering experience may be limited, you've honed transferable skills through diverse roles. You don't need to know everything, instead, knowing what you don't know and pairing it with enthusiasm for learning and the ability to adapt is just, if not more valuable, in a role where no day looks the same.

There are several books, podcasts, and training courses available for free or low costs. As a hiring manager I like to see the PSC certifications on a resume but it's not required (I know it costs money). Free resources like podcasts and blogs count too, make sure to talk about what you listen to or watch.

I have found mentors as a great resource to not inly educate me on technologies but also help me to see and understand potential gaps so that I can be directed to appropriate resources.

Wether it's a course, mentors, or book, committing to continuous learning not only benefits you but your potential team and customers. This is a quality that demonstrates that you're a self-starter and genuinely interested in a SE or SC role. I've noticed that with each article/book I read, each course I complete and the more industry discussions I get involved in, the more confident and prepared I feel for an interview.

No matter your background, there are always skills that can be bridged to new roles. For example, my background in acting and theatre taught me how to make imaginary circumstances feel real and engage audiences effectively. These skills translate well into Sales Engineering, where making technical solutions understandable and engaging for clients is crucial. Leveraging your unique skills provides a distinct advantage, allowing you to stand out by fully owning who you are and bringing your whole self to your work. This approach not only showcases your abilities but also enriches your role with your unique perspectives.

Any role you did during that "break" gave you transferable skills and experiences. Especially parenting. Project planning Discovery Problem solving Value selling Prioritizing

You can leverage your network in two ways: former colleagues or managers can connect you to the hiring team and provide references, which can significantly enhance your job prospects by vouching for your skills and reliability. Additionally, people who possess expertise in areas where you have skill gaps can help accelerate your learning by providing you with a curated list of must-know resources. This can include online courses, essential reading materials, or even mentorship opportunities. Do not underestimate the second approach: being able to quickly find the right information is essential in today’s fast-paced environment.

When it comes to interviews, it's essential to highlight how you navigate challenging situations and find effective solutions. Sharing these experiences can make up for any lack of formal experience. When discussing these situations, focus on showcasing the skills you used to resolve them.