Daniele : Account Executive at Fabriq

Can you present your professional background?

After studying philosophy and doing a thesis on the history of cinema in Italy, I worked as a journalist in Milan. Six years later, I decided to come to France, to Paris, to work in a global engagement and marketing agency as Deputy Head.

Then I was an Inside Sales Representative in a French communications group, where I was able to put advanced sales techniques to good use.

Then, before being contacted by MisterBilingue, I worked for a company specialised in e-collaborative solutions for managing consumer products, as a Sales Manager. This experience enabled me to coordinate the opening of the Italian territory, which increased the company's profitability.

How long have you been in France?

I've been in France for 23 years, even though I had to go back to Italy for a year.

How would you rate your previous experiences? What have they taught you (in terms of skills, etc.)?

I learned how to sell software, because I hadn't studied sales at school. My previous experiences have also given me the skills I need to be a sales person.

How did you imagine what working in France was like? Was it like you expected?

I imagined working in France as something very rewarding and very professional. So when I started working in Paris, it was pretty much true to life and it matched my expectations.

What do you think of the French application process?

I think the application process is very important in France. You have to be very precise and give a lot of details about your professional experience. Recruiters pay a lot of attention to you and have several discussions before you are hired. For example, before I was hired at Fabriq, I had 2 interviews with MisterBilingue and then 4 with Fabriq.

What differences in everyday life have surprised you most in France?

What surprised me in France, and particularly in Paris, is that there really is a 'metro, work, bed' rhythm. I also find that there is a strong multicultural aspect in Paris, which is very enriching. There are lots of Italian, American and Lebanese restaurants, for example, but I have the impression that to eat real French food you have to go to restaurants that are a bit gastronomic.

An aspect of French culture that you hate? One that you love?

I find that the French use a lot of acronyms and I don't find that very practical when it's not our native language. On the other hand, I love the French's curiosity and openness to other cultures, even if they still retain a sense of patriotic pride.

What do you miss most about your home country?

The things I miss most are the sun and Italian food.

Can you describe your job as an Account Executive?

I'm responsible for presenting Fabriq to Italian prospects, selling our SAAS solution and then developing the Italian market.

How did you hear about MisterBilingue?

Alexandra called me because I had applied for a job on APEC.