Athletes and Veterans: Our Process
Our initial process.
Pre-interview training.
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What is tech sales and why you?
• Training on the opportunity of the career in technology sales and what the career path looks like, key skills, and key behaviors that lead to success
• Connecting the dots on the existing skills, characteristics, and behaviors that make former athletes great candidates for a successful career in technology sales
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LinkedIn and Resume Building
• Easy to consume content to make your resume and your LinkedIn top-notch for any potential HR Recruiter for a technology sales job as well as for any hiring manager in technology sales
• Tips and Tricks to ensure your resume and LinkedIn capture your life experience in a way that ties it back to a career in sales
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Interview Prep
• Both easy to consume online curriculum of the interview process and courses to practice and train yourself before getting in front of recruiters and hiring managers
• 1:1 coaching sessions with career experts including mock interviews and real-life situations to prepare you for game day with hiring companies – including writing your own intro letter from the perspective of a recruiter to learn how to sell yourself!
• Practice sessions for interview processes that include Mock Cold Calls, Mock Cold Emails, and Practicing Sales Presentations
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Foundational Job Skill Training
• Prospecting Foundations: How to research an account and a prospect
• How to make a cold call, write a cold email or LinkedIn message
• How to build a 30/60/90 day success plan for your first quarter in the seat and execute against it
• How to use basic systems including Salesforce, Zoom, Outlook, Outreach, Salesloft, and other common tools used in sales roles
• How to qualify an account: MEDDIC Foundational Course
• Building Operational Excellence: Daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly habits of successful sales people
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Behavioral Assessment
• A self-assessment tool is leveraged at the end of the pre-interview training process to help unlock career potential by creating awareness around the candidate preferred behavioral style
• This performance predictor model is used to familiarize an individual with the behaviors required for a role and align to a personal development plan
• Partnering closely with Game Change the performance model for sales captures the distinctive mindset of high performing individuals in this role
• Key behaviors include leadership, forthrightness, self-confidence and self-expression, presence, competitiveness, assertion, negotiation, stamina, determination, and career focus among several others
Shift Group alumni services.
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Access to hundreds of former athletes in the technology sales space with years of experience to engage with for discussions, advice, and networking
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Shift is continuously growing out the online learning management system and any candidate the goes through initial placement services has a life time of access to any and all content along with our youtube channel and podcast series
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We do not disappear once you get a job – we continue to partner with you as you grow in your career – helping you apply for promotions, negotiating raises, and moving to new roles.
What Shift Group athletes are saying.
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Jamill Moquete
“The Shift Group provided me with the confidence needed going into a tech sales interview. Starting tech sales has allowed me to remember that in order to become successful it will take time and dedication to your craft much like in baseball. Working with focused, eager, and devoted tech sales reps have reminded me of that competitive nature I had during my professional career.”
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ADR at Coupa Software ; Pro Baseball Baltimore Orioles, UMass Boston Baseball
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Griffin Harris
“Shift Group provided critical value in starting my career in sales. As a former college athlete, most of my time was spent focusing on my sport rather than my career which had me a bit behind the eight ball in terms of finding a job post-graduation - but that was no problem for Shift Group. In just under a month I was able to build relationships with members of the Shift team while learning pertinent interview and sales scales along the way. I give a great deal of credit to their diligence in preparing candidates to not only get a job offer but succeed in the role. The remarkable part is that the relationships built during this process with members of the Shift Group go far beyond just getting a first sales role - they want to keep these relationships for life and continue providing opportunities well past an entry-level position.”
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ADR at Coupa Software ; UVA College Lacrosse
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Jaclyn Williamson
“US former athletes all to beat to the same drum - whatever sport, whatever level - we all speak a similar language, and it was so refreshing to work with people who just totally get it. I can’t express enough how much of a game-changer (no pun intended) Shift Group was for me. They showed me how to properly market myself with all the highly transferable skills that come inevitably with being an athlete, and they were able to help me highlight those skill sets in my resume and interviews. I valued feeling like I was completely understood, and that made me confident to place my trust in Shift Group. The level of commitment Shift Group provided throughout the process absolutely blew me away - they really went above and beyond, and they were always right there with me throughout each step.”
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BDR at WorkRamp ; Regis University Volleyball
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Nathan Moore
“Shift Group connected me with a company that embodied the values I was looking for and gave me the information needed to succeed in the interview process, which is difficult to find/gain on your own. Not to mention, the work is done swiftly and provides clarity to what brings success in this process.”
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ADR at Coupa Software ; University of Cincinnati Baseball
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Jason Garnett
“As a person who never worked in sales before Shift Group provided me with all the tools and advice, I would need to be successful in finding a career in Tech Sales. Because of their passion and dedication to helping former athletes get sales jobs I was able to secure a dream job that I would have never done without them.”
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BDR at Betterworks ; Ohio State Golf
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Joe Guidry
“Shift Group gave me the opportunity to shift my career and my mindset. Working with Shift Group allowed me to receive the proper tools and coaching needed to succeed. S.G. put me in a position to score, it was on me to catch the ball. Their attention to detail and commitment to teaching allowed me to go into every interview with confidence.”
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Chris Falwell
“I was looking for a cyber security start-up that was doing something new in the industry after working in a technical support role for 3 years out of college. I wanted to do something more competitive that complimented my work ethic. Shift Group was able to get me an interview opportunity within a couple of weeks with exactly what I was looking for.”
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BDR at Black Kite ; Texas A&M Corpus Christi / San Fransico Giants Baseball
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MK Gallagher
“The Shift Group was an integral part in my transition to tech sales. Graduating college as a Division I athlete with no experience in the tech industry, I was nervous as to how the transition into an unknown industry would be. However, that’s where the Shift Group came in! They not only had calls with me to help me prepare for my interview process but also helped me to recognize the power of my soft skills as an athlete that would carry over into my new chapter in tech sales.”
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BDR at Tines ; College of the Holy Cross Rowing
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Kevin Kessler
“After 6+ years in consulting for the financial services industry, I knew I wanted to try something new but still be able to apply my problem solving / customer relationship skills. I connected with JR and Shift Group through my alumni network and my career search in the technology sales space took off from there. Shift Group gave me the mentorship and coaching I needed to land myself an Account Executive role with a fast-growing financial technology company. Truly couldn't have done it without JR and his team!”
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Senior Manager at Charles Schwab ; AE At Argyle
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Sean Sullivan
“After playing 13 years of professional hockey, I was nervous about transitioning into a new career. Shift Group worked with me to align the skills that I learned in hockey to my current sales role and made the transition much easier than I imagined.”
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Account Executive at Cynet Security ; Hockey Career (14 Year Pro)
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Anthony Flaherty
“I always thought I did a good job building my network throughout college and professionally, but when it comes time to land that first job, you start to realize it’s hard to do it on your own. Being able to utilize the expertise of the Shift Group was a major part of how smooth the transition into the tech sales world was for me.”
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Account Executive at Cynet Security ; 2 Year Pro Career
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Cameron Brewer
“Because of the Shift group, I was given a platform where I could showcase my skills, work ethic, and competitive drive that I learned and developed from sports.“
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ADR at Coupa Software ; Transylvania University Swimming
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Roger Wesley
“Shift Group helped me to break into a seemingly impregnable industry with virtually unlimited earning potential, by leveraging my skillsets that I already possessed as a former professional athlete. They articulated my value in the marketplace and helped me to command a very respectable salary that I can support my family on. Shift Group skyrocketed my career!”
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ADR at Coupa Software ; Southern University Football
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Jacob Shlessener
“Shift Group completely changed my career path. They allowed me to go from having no idea what I wanted to do post athletics, to having an awesome job with great pay and great benefits. I had no idea if tech sales were something that I would even be interested in, but I’m so glad I connected with Shift Group.”
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BDR at Mimecast ; St. Louis Cardinals Baseball
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Jim Flavin
"After 15 years working in the sports industry, specifically in Minor League Baseball, I was looking for a change. Between the long hours, and ultimately the impact Covid had on the sports industry and entertainment at large, I knew I wanted something more stable moving forward, as well as a better work-life balance. Knowing JR was well established in the tech space, I reached out looking for his help. He and the team at Shift Group assisted me in repositioning my resume, helped me navigate the ins and outs of a new industry, and ultimately was a tremendous resource and sounding board during my search. Happy to say I'm a year into my new career in the Managed Services space, and I can't thank JR and the Shift Group team enough for their insight and support."
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Business Development Manager at Systems Engineering ; GM - New Hampshire Fisher Cats
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Thaddeus Philyaw
“The Shift Group helped me improve my interview skills tremendously. They taught me ways to express my confidence and passion. They taught me about what companies prioritize and look for when hiring. Along with that, they were always there to support me if I had any questions.”
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Home Ambassador at Restoration Hardware ; Football at Jacksonville State, Arena Football Player for Nebraska Danger
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Kyle Kelly
“I am proud to be a Shift Group alumni. The team allowed me a remarkably smooth transition to a new corporate job! Joining the tech sales industry has been a goal of mine as I continue in a family tradition of employment. The interview and professional research skills I have gained are immeasurable in value. A huge thanks to Shift Group for their work and dedication to clients.”
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BDR at Neutral ; Full Sail University
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Garrett Kelly
“Having the opportunity to work with Shift Group and JR undoubtedly put me in the best position to succeed in my career post-pro ball. From market-specific training, to resume and relationship building, the team at Shift knows how to speak the same language as us former athletes and help us realize our full potential. Individuals who are accustomed to performing at a high level need to feel as though they are being pushed towards an achievable end goal in order to stay motivated. JR and the team have built a culture of growth, both professionally and personally, to help prepare their former athletes for an opportunity to grow in a career that will satisfy that innate need to produce. My job search was particularly specific, and JR was able to unearth a hidden gem of opportunity and I couldn't be more grateful. I cannot recommend their services enough; whether you are a recently graduated college athlete, retired professional athlete, or an employer looking for a hungry and coachable employee who will help take your business to the next level, Shift Group can help get you to where you want to be in the world of sales.”
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AE at Exaltaret ; Pitcher, Chicago Cubs Organization
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Scott Pavelski
“George and JR from ShiftGroup were great to work with. Although I didn't end up with one of the companies they work with, they helped me out tremendously. Their training and guidance helped me prepare for my interviews. If I wouldn't have connected with them and tried to prepare for interviews myself, I would probably still be looking for a job! I can't thank them and ShiftGroup enough.”
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Safety Analyst - Cleveland Integrity Services ; Hockey at UNH
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Jack Simonds
“JR and George fully invested their energy and resources to enable me to have a successful transition to Tech Sales. JR introduced me to top-tier firms and provided instrumental advice throughout the interview process, ultimately leading to an offer I was ecstatic about. If you are a former (or current) athlete looking to make the jump to Tech Sales, there is no better place to start than Shift Group.”
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BDR At Jellyfish ; Bowdoin College Basketball
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Monica Masters
“After over 18 years of wealth management sales experience, I needed a change and was looking for an opportunity to use my sales skills within the technology industry. Since JR and Matt were also collegiate athletes as I was and they both had firsthand technology sales experience which I didn’t, I knew I was on a winning team. The Shift Group gave me energetic coaching, focused guidance, and a concrete game plan to land a BDR role at a fast-growing startup technology company. I can’t thank them enough!”
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BDR at Olive ; Former Wealth Management Advisor, Syracuse University Field Hockey
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Taylor Gleave
“During my time as an athlete, it was important for me to be on a team where I was pushed to be the best player I could be, learn from my coaches and teammates, and last but not least have fun. Transitioning into the workforce I knew I needed that same guidance and that's where Shift Group stepped in. Shift Group embodies that team camaraderie that allows athletes to thrive. Each and every person on the Shift Group team is passionate about helping each individual athlete to establish a career in tech sales by giving you the confidence you need to succeed, teaching you priceless lessons on how to be a standout candidate during every step of the interview process, and last but not least having fun while doing so. I am forever grateful for the Shift Group team and their support in guiding me to my career in tech sales!”
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BDR at Stack Overflow ; Basketball at Santa Monica College
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Jackson Overlund
Shift opened my eyes to the world of tech sales and provided the training necessary to find a spot. I applied for an SDR spot and ended the interview process as an AE because of Shift Group’s preparation.
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AE at Raydiant ; Baseball at Utah Valley University
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Whitney Steele
“Shift Group made my transition into tech sales seamless and fun. JR and George were a huge asset and they provided all the tools to be successful during the interview process and are there for you every step of the way!”
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BDR at Fairmarkit ; Equestrian Rider at Skidmore College
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Ian Adriano
“I was so lucky to be connected to Shift Group during my transition from being a division 1 athlete to my professional career. Understanding that our skills were desired by many companies was a huge confidence boost when going into interviews and the extensive interview preparation provided by Shift Group was incredible. I want to thank the Shift Group and the dedication from both JR and George for helping to place me in a job where I can thrive and an environment to help me build a new chapter in my life and a new career!”
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Antonio Fox
“Shift Group helped me transition at an important time in my life. A large portion of my time was dedicated to sports when I was in college, limiting my work experience. They introduced me to the tech industry and helped me apply the key skills I developed as an athlete and break into this lucrative industry. The mentorship and training they provided set me up for success to land interviews with startup tech companies and fortune 500 companies. I hope to work with Shift Group again as I progress in my career.”
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BDR at Orum ; Football at Shepherd University
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Edi Mujan
"Working with Shift Group meant working with a strong team who understood my transition from college and professional soccer into the tech sales world. I did not fully understand that the characteristic traits I've acquired over my years of playing soccer actually translate perfectly into a sales role and that's where Shift Group came in to create that assurance and preparation. Working with JR, Matt, and the whole Shift Group team was extremely valuable and any athlete looking to take their professional career to another level should explore this elite team."
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BDR at Paperless Parts ; Professional Soccer Player Michigan FC and Holy Cross Crusaders
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Mike Dryer
“JR, George, and Shift Group gave me the tools and the confidence to pursue a new career in tech sales. Using the skills and attributes I had attained from my athletic background, I was able to make the transition from a career in Law Enforcement to the tech industry. I would highly recommend that any former athlete thinking about what to do next to reach out to the Shift Group and see what they have to offer.”
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BDR at Workday ; Professional Hockey and Law Enforcement
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Andrew Floerke
“Shift Group has helped me succeed in taking the next step in my life by finding a remote sales job that I feel is a perfect starting position for me. They gave me the information and tools needed to succeed with my interviews as well as answer any important questions I had about the process. The most important aspect may have been the fact that Shift Group never gave up on me or my efforts in interviewing. I am forever grateful for them!”
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BDR at BrightEdge, Football, and Lacrosse Sonoma State University
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Jack Collins
“I am extremely grateful for Shift Group and the guidance and training I was provided throughout my entire experience. Their Team has been immensely helpful and genuinely cares about putting you in a position to succeed. They helped me through all the obstacles I encountered and answered all the questions I had while changing my career path. I learned how to leverage my athletic experiences into professional opportunities and how to navigate the interview process seamlessly. I can’t thank their team enough for all the help and support they have given me along the way!"
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BDR at Ardoq ; Scholar All American Swimmer at the University of Texas at Austin
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JJ Sauko
”Even though I had some sales experience and business background, I learned a lot about how to present myself to employers in interviews. The coaches were always very helpful and encouraging, and the atmosphere felt great. I had no idea how well my experience from my athletic career transferred to sales.”
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Accountant at Lamkin Corporation ; Men’s Soccer at Shippensburg University
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Corey Nielsen
Working with ShiftGroup made my transition into software sales so easy. They took me through everything I needed to know in order to break into the industry:
• How to write a resume and cover letter that stands out from the crowd
• What hiring managers are looking for in new hires
• Creating a belief in myself by realizing I had a ton of sales skills already
• How to interview flawlessly so I get the job (got hired on my first interview)
• And even the fundamentals of what the job will consist of including prospectingWithout ShiftGroup on my side, finding a job would have been much more difficult. I probably would have gone through a few interviews wondering why I didn’t get hired.
ShiftGroup took that pain away and gave me all the direction I needed in order to flawlessly transition into software sales.
I couldn’t recommend working with them more! If you’re looking to move into software sales but unsure what to do, you need to join their group. They will give you a direct path to reaching your goals.
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BDR at N-Able ; Strength Trainer and Personal Trainer
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Zach Tolkinen
“I can't thank the Shift Group enough for their help preparing me for the job hunt every step of the way. Working with George, I was able to put together a current resume and update my LinkedIn profile. Being out of college for 8 years, these were things I had not stayed current on and almost didn't know where to start without their help. From there, the Shift team helped prepare me for the interview process. One of the things I found very helpful is that they showed me how I could take skills I learned during my hockey career and apply them to the business role during the interview process. Although I ended up taking a job in a different role, I have no doubt their assistance throughout the process helped me in landing the job. Thank you Shift Group!”
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Foot & Ankle Sales Associate at Stryker ; Professional Hockey Player
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Fabrizzio Reategui
"I found out about tech sales just a few weeks before graduating college. And in just two short months after graduation, I accepted a job offer from my top choice company. I can say without a doubt that ShiftGroup was vital to my job search success, and I feel so lucky to have found them. JR, George, and the ShiftGroup team overall were amazing to work with and they make the process as simple as possible for us candidates. From updating my resume to preparing for interviews, ShiftGroup was there to help. ShiftGroup offers everything you need to get your career started in tech sales and if you put in the work, anyone can experience the same success as I did. Words can't explain how thankful I am for JR and his team, and I can't wait to keep working with them as I start off my career!"
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BDR At Crayon ; Tennis player at Allegheny College
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Calli Derby
“I’m so thankful for the Shift Group! I was looking to return to the workforce after being a SAHM and I wasn’t sure if I could find my place in tech sales. They reminded me of the value of being a former athlete. Thankfully, they prepared me and helped set me up for success so much quicker than I could’ve ever imagined. JR and Matt were available whenever I needed, to make sure I was ready for my interviews and every step along the process. I’m so thankful for them helping me secure a job in tech sales! Can’t say enough good things about the Shift Group”
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BDR At Redwood Software ; University of Arkansas Women’s Basketball
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Jaci Powell
“I can wholeheartedly say that Shift Group helped change the trajectory of my life. Before meeting JR and George I had a few pieces figured out; former D1 athlete, recruiting experience, a masters in psychology. The problem was that I didn’t know how to translate those skills into a strong candidacy in sales. Not only did they provide me with a roadmap of exactly how to do that, but they also helped me understand how valuable those skills are.
They mentored me each step of the way. Setting up interviews, coaching me through final rounds, and answering any and all questions. Even after I decided to take a job with a company outside of their partnership, they were there to cheer me on, congratulate me and strategize about ways we can continue to network together. They are an incredible team of people who genuinely care about helping athletes launch their careers. My only regret is not finding them sooner!”
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BDR at Ramp ; Track and Field at UC Berkeley
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Brian Flynn
“Shift Group offered me the opportunity to be 100% prepared to enter the interview process for a role in tech sales. I’m grateful to have met JR and George once my professional hockey career was over, they made the transition very smooth. I would fully recommend any competitive, highly driven athlete to do the same!”
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BDR at Recorded Future ; University of Maine and NHL Hockey Player
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David Gonzalez
“JR and Matt helped me transition from being an elite athlete and coaching professional to technology sales. Thanks to them I found the inspiration I needed to switch career paths, and I could not be more thankful!
Shift Group gave me the motivation and necessary tools to become a great SDR. Matt guided me through the interview process and helped me make the best decision for my professional career.
Shift Group University provides great training to get you started in the tech sales industry. If you are an athlete looking to get into tech sales, Shift Group is the place for you!”
— BDR at Aware, Tennis at East Tennessee State University
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Dante Maribito
“Coming out of college I had no idea how to begin my journey into the working world. Shift Group brought me through the whole process of getting job interviews, preparing me for each interview, and teaching me how to make the best impression I could in each interview. Whether it was George calling me and running through some points of emphasis for the next interview, going to one of JRs Q&As, or watching some of the videos JR prepared to help with understanding the field more. There was never a time during any of my interviews that I felt unprepared, and that was all because of the Shift Groups’ dedication to my interview process. I am forever grateful to have been lucky enough to work with the shift group during my interview process.”
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BDR at Replsy ; Hockey at Assumption University
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Grant Prusator
“Shift Group did an amazing job helping me feel prepared for Tech Sales. They showed me how to transfer my strengths as an athlete over to sales. I never would have felt as confident as I did heading into interviews without Shift Group. I really cannot thank them enough for how much they prepared me.”
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SDR at Reputation ; Professional Basketball Player
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Cory Dunn
“Working with Shift Group is one of the best decisions I've made. As a Professional Hockey Player, chasing this dream for 25 years, I always knew this day (retirement) would come, but always put it in the back of my mind and never wanted to come to terms with it. Transitioning from professional sports into the "Real World" can be very difficult. From giving up my childhood dreams to going through an identity crisis and not knowing what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, being introduced to The Shift Group was meant to be. They opened my eyes to the Tech Sales world and showed me that I can apply the same skills that I have learned through being an athlete and have them carry over into being successful in software sales. Being resilient, competitive, coachable, curious, and having a strong work ethic are the same skills that it takes to be successful in both athletics and software sales. JR has done an amazing job making this transition easy and smooth. To make sure you are successful from Day 1, JR combines extensive interview preparation and training mixed with very personable and down-to-earth conversations. These conversations almost make you feel like you are back in the locker room (something no athlete ever wants to give up), where you can be yourself but also learn and grow which makes this transition that much smoother. The only thing I can't wrap my head around is... How come nobody has done this sooner?”
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BDR at Redwood ; Professional Hockey Player
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James English
“The story about my journey into tech sales has certainly been accelerated with the help of Shift Group, and my mentor/trainer Matt. Matt kept me honest going through the BDR/SDR prep course where I was able to discover how skills that I had already gained in my previous roles were transferrable to the entry-level role for the company I work for now. The process was 4 weeks total, from my application being submitted to work with Shift Group, to the extension of multiple offers, Shift Group tee’d me up for a successful transition into Tech.”
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BDR At Corestack ; Westfield State Football Player and Juvenile Probation Officer
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Jarod Yoakam
“I was introduced to Shift Group by a friend of mine who worked closely with them and raved about them. I was a teacher looking to get into the world of Sales and needed some help breaking into the field. Luckily, I had JR and Matt right by my side, detailing every step of the way how I was going to get into the field, what the jobs are going to entail, and how I can be successful with a career switch.
The amount of training that Shift Group provides, along with prep sessions, and "check-in" calls (from my guy Matt!), is truly amazing and shows how much this organization cares about you and the decision you are about to make with your future career. I was scared to make a career switch, but I am so glad I did because these guys listened to what I wanted and put me with a company that has a great culture and the leadership/professional development has been amazing!
These guys understand how the industry works and how elite athletes can make an impact on various companies. Listen to their trust and guidance and you will go a long way with this career!”
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BDR at nContracts ; Baseball Player at UC Davis
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Joe Whitney
“Finding a new career path after my hockey career ended was a little unsettling. And WOW, did it go by quickly! Teaming up with JR, George and the whole Shift Group team guided me to find a new path where I could apply and lean on all the values and intangibles I learned and worked at while I was an athlete. I am so fortunate for JR and George in guiding me to tech sales and giving me all the tools and training I needed to have success throughout the interview process and beyond. Thank you Shift Group for putting up with all my silly questions and long conversations along the way (they will throughout my journey) I cannot thank you, guys, enough! I’m super excited and motivated for this new challenge.”
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SDR at Blink – The Frontline Experts, 2X NCAA National Champion, and NHL Forward
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Matt Gropp
“Having the opportunity to work with the Shift Group has been one of the best experiences of my career. There is a lot of “noise” in the tech industry and finding the right company fit can be difficult. JR and George cut through that noise and found me an opportunity to work with a company whose leadership, values, and plans for growth are exactly what I was looking for.
For the first time since my athletic career, I felt like there was a coaching staff in my corner looking out for my best interests and helping to guide me in the right direction. JR and George took the time to learn where I am in my career, and what I was looking for in my next opportunity, and their training program and weekly calls helped to ensure I was prepared and confident for any stage of the interview process.
If you’re an athlete looking for a career in tech sales jump on the opportunity to work with JR and his team!”
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BDR at Phonism ; Ice Hockey Player at St. Bonaventure University
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Nicole Woods
“For the last few months, I have been trying to navigate what the next steps in my career would look like and after a bit of searching on my own, I was introduced to ShiftGroup, George, and JR and it has been an absolute game changer. I have always wanted to work for and with other former athletes and always believed that I would do well working for a company that values the skills and characteristics that I have inherited from being an elite athlete. Throughout my career, I had always been warned of the difficulties of transitioning from sports to the business world, and like so many other athletes who may have put their careers on hold to pursue their sport after college, I found it especially hard to pivot and break into a high-standard and fast-paced environment in my next career. The network you create just from exploring career opportunities with them is incredible and I cannot thank them enough for their direction, support, and training that has certainly set me up for success in my BDR role with iOiO.”
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BDR at IOIO.TV ; University of Louisville & U.S. Women’s National Team Field Hockey
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Andrew Hillier
"Working with Shift Group has been an honor. I am incredibly grateful for the guidance and support from George, JR, and the rest of the coaches at Shift Group. Their dedication to providing me with a playbook for success throughout the interview process was instrumental in my receiving a job at Toric. Working closely with George, he made sure I was always best prepared for success and was always available for contact when I had any questions. When joining Shift Group I had no idea what I was signing up for. After meeting JR and George I knew this was something that could seriously change my life for the better. Their energy and excitement are contagious and it makes you want to go above and beyond to succeed because they do everything in their power to put you in a position of success. When we think of great coaches, (i.e. Phil Jackson, Bill Belichick) I think it's time we put George Hughes up there. The quality of guidance is top tier and I'm confident you cannot find anywhere better than Shift Group. I can't thank Shift group enough for the opportunity and for coaching me to be the best version of myself!"
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BDR at Toric ; Baseball Player at the University of Southern Maine
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Michael Best
“Shift Group gave me an opportunity after my sports career. Transitioning out of a sport can be difficult for athletes, but Shift was there to help facilitate that transition. JR and his team’s extensive knowledge in software sales and athletics make Shift the perfect point of contact for a former athlete looking for a new career. With my resume and LinkedIn guidance to interview and practical training Shift Group provided me with the tools and preparation to succeed in a new career opportunity. I’m proud to be a part of an organization that supports and provides former athletes with the opportunity to have a successful and lucrative career after sports.”
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BDR at Aptitude Software ; Professional Basketball Player
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Jake Guest
"Working with Shift Group opened the door to a meaningful career and impacted my personal development in so many ways. The course gave me a foundation for success in tech sales and instilled the confidence needed to convey my ability to hiring partners. Receiving insights into the industry and feedback from sales veterans showed me what it looks like to execute at an elite level and set the standard for my own success. The Shift Group coaches offered an incredible level of engagement, supporting me from the first assignment all the way to accepting a job offer. Shift Group has drastically changed the trajectory of my career and I will forever be grateful for giving me a new opportunity to compete!"
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BDR at BigSpring ; Ice Hockey Player at Florida State University
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Kylie Thomas
“The guidance and support that Shift Group provides is nothing short of life-changing. To say that I’m grateful, would be an understatement. The team at Shift Group equipped me with the tools and resources I needed to succeed. Their team helped me to identify all the skills and characteristics that I acquired playing college soccer. Then they took that a step further and helped me understand its impact on my professional career. With Shift Group’s training and guidance, I was able to market my abilities in a whole new way. This brought me new opportunities and a network of connections that I hope to keep for a lifetime. I wouldn’t be starting a new career without them. I would highly recommend working with George Hughes and the team of coaches at Shift Group.”
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BDR at Hotel Engine ; Soccer Player at Fort Hays State University
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Ronan Chisholm
“I can’t thank JR and Matt enough for helping me understand the SaaS industry and preparing me for success in technology sales. What I love about the Shift Group is their commitment and willingness to train former athletes and help us break into an industry none of us thought was even possible with our athletic backgrounds. What Shift Group is doing is a very commendable and honorable pursuit to help athletes who are looking for a new career break into tech sales with the proper training!”
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BDR at Pipeline Group ; Baseball Player at Saint Joseph’s
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Ean Mendeszoon
“I am very grateful for the Shift Group and the constant guidance and coaching everyone provided me in the process of getting an SDR job at Silk. From the first meeting with JR, I could just feel their passion for tech sales and helping others become successful in this field from his past experiences. The training the Shift Group provides is excellent but what’s more impressive is how eager and available all of the coaches are to help, teach and guide you into a great interview and a new opportunity. I was working in hockey for the past 4 years and was becoming very burnt out and just needed a change but I struggled with where to go before meeting JR and the team. I’m very fortunate to have been linked up with the team at the Shift Group and am thankful for all the help in transitioning me into an awesome new career in tech sales!”
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BDR at Silk ; Hockey Player at Nazareth College
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Austin Mansell
“I cannot thank Shift Group enough for assisting me in my transition from coaching into sales. They had so much to offer and asked for basically nothing in return. I was thinking that at some point it would be too good to be true, but it wasn't. Their training was comprehensive and engaging, their encouragement kept my spirits high, and their network allowed me to break into this industry. I do not have enough praise for them and a special shoutout to George who kept me motivated and prepared throughout the interview process. I know I have the ability to be great in this field, Shift Group opened the door so that I could get my journey started.”
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BDR at https://www.redwood.com/Redwood ; Soccer Player at Ithaca College
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Pol Hernández Rosius
“Shift Group made me realize the value and characteristics that athletes can bring to the workplace. I find that many athletes, whenever they are done playing and are looking for a job, feel that they are behind other candidates because of their lack of “experience”. Shift Group realizes that the athlete and veteran mindset is probably more important than “experience” because it is something that is built through many years of hard work and consistency. J.R. and his team do an incredible job of preparing you for your new role. The training they offer goes straight to the point and provides you with the tools necessary to literally crush it. Before joining Shift Group I was very lost on what I wanted to do and not one single person I talked to kind of valued all those transferable skills that being a D1 standout student-athlete gave me. I couldn’t thank J.R., George, and the Shift Group team for their help in my transition out of sports. They are committed and if so are you, they will get you multiple good opportunities, they don’t miss.”
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BDR at MemoryBlue ; Soccer Player at Xavier University
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Amanda Nikhazy
“My experience with Shift Group has been nothing less than incredible. A+ coaching, professionalism, and communication from top to bottom within the organization. From the training, mock interviews, role plays, and 1 on 1 call with my coach Dylan I felt more than prepared going into each and every interview. I feel especially thankful for the hard work and diligence that was put forth in order to assist me in finding the right fit. You can't fake sincerity, and it is evident that the individuals working at Shift Group truly care about helping and training those next in line. If you put in the work as you did in sports (and life), you will see the results 10-fold working with Shift group, I can not recommend them enough.”
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BDR at Snap!Raise, Softball Player at Stetson University
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Matt Marcinew
“I can’t say enough about what Shift Group was able to offer me. As a professional athlete, I have always looked for something to get involved with outside of hockey to make the transition out of playing a little bit easier. Very shortly after reaching out to JR and his team, I was enrolled in the Shift training program. I learned everything that I needed to know about the industry, how to be successful, and why my skills are transferable to the world of tech sales. Very shortly after completing the online courses, was connected with professionals within the industry and got my first job in tech sales. They helped made me feel fully prepared to get in front of companies during the interview process. Without the Shift Group training and network, I would not have been able to take full advantage of the endless opportunities within the tech sales industry. I am grateful that I reached out and was able to benefit from what they have to offer. I would recommend this training and resource to any athlete who has the ambition to become an elite salesperson; even if they don’t even know it yet!”
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Intern at PTP ; Professional Hockey Player on The Calgary Wranglers
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Ashley Williams
“I'm incredibly grateful to have had the privilege of working with JR, Matt, and the Shift Group. Aside from their incredible training program, they helped me through a paradigm shift of applying the same mindset, tenacity, and work ethic that I had in my basketball career to my career in tech sales. Their generosity, guidance, and patience encouraged me and helped me affirm that tech is the right path for me. I'm excited to thrive in my new role while applying what they taught me!”
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BDR at Technology Associates ; Basketball Player at Western Carolina University
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Natalie Caney
“As I embarked on my journey to change careers I was lucky to have the support of the Shift Group. The coursework made me feel competent and confident as I started the interview process. It was exciting to learn that the skills I had honed in my athletic and coaching career could be utilized in a tech sales role. The Shift Group and my coach Dylan were able to identify a company in which I can grow and learn to be successful. I would like to thank JR for providing me with the opportunity to learn from him and go through the Shift Group's coursework. Thank you to my Shift Group coach Dylan who always gave me honest feedback while also pushing me to excel. The Shift Group has created an incredible program and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to enter the tech sales industry!”
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BDR at Blink ; Soccer player at The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
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Ryan Lovelace
“Shift Group is an amazing company that was pivotal in helping me elevate my sales career. I started out doing sales jobs and I knew I wanted a career in sales but the jobs I was taking on did not feel like the long-term career goal that would fit for me. I was not sure how to get my foot in the door of a sales job that I would want to make an actual career out of. Shift Group not only allowed me to find a career that I wanted long-term but it also prepared me for the role that I would be taking on after I got a job. During the process, creating relationships with the Shift Group team was very easy as they truly cared about my success in every step of the process from job searching to finishing the interview process. Joining Shift Group was the experience that I was looking for when wanting to propel my career and I am grateful for the experience.”
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BDR at JetSweep ; Football Player at Wofford College