From Curiosity to Confidence: Faisal's Journey at Ingram Micro

Starting a Career with Curiosity and Openness 

Faisal AlQahtani is a Sales Account Manager based in Saudi Arabia. He joined Ingram Micro in April 2023, shortly after graduating from university, and this role became his very first professional experience. Stepping into the workplace for the first time brought excitement and uncertainty, but Faisal approached it with curiosity and a strong desire to learn. 

“This was my first job, and I didn’t really know what to expect,” he says. “I was nervous, but I was also excited to start my career.” That openness shaped his early days and allowed him to grow step by step, without pressure to have all the answers already. 

Exploring Opportunities and Finding the Right Path 

Faisal began his journey in an operations role, supporting Cisco within the business. While he quickly learned the basics of processes and coordination, he also learned more about himself. “After some time, I realized I wanted to be more connected to the market,” he explains. “I wanted to meet partners, understand their needs, and support them directly.” 

Instead of keeping that thought to himself, Faisal chose to speak openly with his leaders. That conversation led to an opportunity to move into Sales Account Management, a role that better matched his interests. “I wasn’t told that it was too early,” he says. “I was supported, and that gave me confidence.” 

The transition allowed him to experience a different side of the business while continuing to learn in a safe and supportive environment. 

Learning Through Trust, Support, and Practice 

Growth came through daily experience, collaboration, and trust. Faisal developed skills that went far beyond his starting point. “I developed strong communication and negotiation skills,” he shares. “Presenting was my biggest weakness before, and now I stand in front of people with confidence.” 

He also worked to build technical knowledge, even when it was outside the formal expectations of his role. “I asked the technical teams many questions,” he says. “They were always happy to help, even though they were not required to.” What mattered most was how learning was encouraged. “When you make a mistake, people don’t judge you,” Faisal explains. “They help you understand and improve.” 

That trust extended into day‑to‑day work and personal life. “When your manager trusts you, you feel responsible for giving your best,” he says. “That trust motivates you.” 

Feeling Valued and Connected at Work 

For Faisal, the people around him made a lasting impact. From his first days, he felt welcomed and included. “Everyone was supportive from the beginning,” he says. “Many colleagues became close friends.” 

Moments of recognition, celebrations, and shared successes helped build strong connections. “These moments are unforgettable,” he reflects. “They make you feel that you truly matter.” 

Even during challenging periods, especially in sales when results take time, Faisal felt supported. “You sometimes question yourself,” he admits. “Having leaders who understand that makes a big difference.” 

Looking Ahead with Confidence 

Today, Faisal feels settled, motivated, and optimistic about his future. He continues to grow in his role and values the stability and learning opportunities around him. “This experience didn’t just change me professionally,” he says. “It changed me as a person.” 

For those starting their careers, Faisal believes confidence, patience, and curiosity are essential. “Ask questions, learn as much as you can, and believe in yourself,” he shares. “If people believe in you, there is a reason.” 

As Faisal continues his journey, he carries forward the confidence he built from the very beginning, ready for what comes next and grateful for a start that helped him grow with purpose and trust.