In our “From Student to” series, we explore the journeys of Cisco Poland team members from their student days to their current roles. Each post shares their transition from learners to professionals, providing valuable insights for aspiring talents eager to navigate the tech industry. Our next hero featured in the series is Alberto Ballan, Leader of the Business Development Team at Cisco Poland.
It all started back in 2015, when Alberto was a bright-eyed student in Innsbruck, Austria. He never imagined that a study visit to Cisco in the USA would alter the course of his career. The spark was ignited, and upon returning, he applied for Cisco’s graduate program for a Business Development Manager (BDM) position. What he didn’t know, was that this would be the beginning of a transformative career journey.
The Road to Cisco
“Why did I apply to Cisco? It was simple; during my visit, I was struck by the company’s innovative culture and the way they were shaping the future. I saw an opportunity to be part of something bigger than myself, to contribute to a company that was at the forefront of technological advancements”, Alberto shares.
“So, what’s the secret behind my trajectory at Cisco? Here’s what I’ve learned:
Stay committed to curiosity, adapt to new challenges, and keep your brain flexible. It’s essential to continuously learn and grow. Building strong relationships both inside and outside Cisco has been fundamental to my journey. Engage with mentors and get involved in sponsored programs. My sponsor at Cisco played a crucial role in my development. Remember, sponsorship is a two-way street; the sponsee needs to put in the effort”.
Developing Essential Skills
Throughout his time at Cisco, Alberto has developed many skills. Ability to handle unpredictable situations has been vital. The graduate program taught him to learn quickly and make informed decisions. He has gained a deep understanding of the complex workings of a large corporation and the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
Overcoming a lack of confidence, especially when communicating with senior stakeholders and facing customers has taught him the value of being prepared and self-assured.
Here are some lessons that have guided Alberto: Don’t get stuck in one place; always be prepared to move forward. Cisco is constantly evolving, and so should you. Meet new people and be open to new ideas. Networking within Cisco can lead to unexpected opportunities and insights.
If he had to describe Cisco in one word, it would be “vibrant”. The company’s culture and the technology we work with are always changing, and there’s never a dull moment.
Advice for Aspiring Cisco Employees
Even if you’re not technical, try to understand the technology and its impact on customers.
Invest in your soft skills and communication abilities. After all, this is a people business, and emotional intelligence goes a long way.
Remember, at Cisco, you’re not just a cog in the machine. You are a part of a vibrant community that values its people, customers, and partners.
Embarking on this journey has been one of the most rewarding decisions of his life.
“I hope my story inspires others to take that leap, to be curious, and to embrace the exciting world of opportunities at Cisco”, Alberto concludes.
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