Sales Development Representative at Handshake: Launch Your Career in the AI Economy

Role Overview

Handshake is revolutionizing the way students and employers connect in the AI-driven world. As a Sales Development Representative (SDR), you'll be at the forefront of this transformation, connecting with prospective employer partners and introducing them to the power of Handshake. This role is perfect for ambitious individuals with a passion for sales, a knack for building relationships, and a desire to make a real impact on the future of work. You will be responsible for generating qualified leads through both inbound and outbound efforts, working closely with Account Executives to drive revenue growth. This is a fast-paced, results-oriented environment where you'll have the opportunity to learn, grow, and advance your career.

A Day in the Life

Your day as an SDR at Handshake will be dynamic and engaging. You'll start by reviewing your pipeline and prioritizing your outreach efforts. This involves researching potential employer partners, crafting personalized emails and LinkedIn messages, and making phone calls to introduce them to Handshake's platform. You'll also be responsible for managing inbound leads, responding to inquiries, and qualifying prospects based on their needs and interests. A significant portion of your day will be spent using tools like Salesforce, Outreach, and Gong to track your progress, analyze your performance, and refine your sales strategies. You'll collaborate with Account Executives to develop territory plans and messaging, ensuring a consistent and effective approach. Finally, you'll dedicate time to continuous learning, staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, and reflecting on your performance to identify areas for improvement.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco is a global hub for innovation and technology, making it the ideal location for Handshake's headquarters. Being based in San Francisco provides you with unparalleled access to a thriving ecosystem of startups, established companies, and industry leaders. You'll be surrounded by a diverse and talented community of professionals, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and professional growth. The city's vibrant culture, world-class restaurants, and stunning natural beauty also make it an exciting and rewarding place to live and work. Furthermore, San Francisco's proximity to leading universities and research institutions makes it a hotbed for talent, ensuring a constant influx of innovative ideas and perspectives.

Career Path

Handshake is committed to investing in the growth and development of its employees. As an SDR, you'll have a clear career path with opportunities to advance into roles such as Account Executive, Team Lead, or Sales Manager. Your success in the SDR role, combined with your alignment with Handshake's values and your passion for helping students, will pave the way for internal promotions. Handshake provides ongoing training and mentorship programs to help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in your career journey. The company also fosters a culture of feedback and continuous improvement, empowering you to take ownership of your career development and achieve your professional goals.

Salary & Benefits

Handshake offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The base salary for the Sales Development Representative role typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 per year, with the potential to earn significantly more through commissions based on performance. In addition to a competitive salary, Handshake provides comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off and holidays, professional development opportunities, stock options, a 401(k) with company match, and a variety of other perks and benefits. These benefits are designed to support your physical, mental, and financial well-being, allowing you to focus on your work and achieve your full potential.

Our Mission

Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and help every student find the right career path. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or location, should have access to the resources and connections they need to succeed in the workforce. As an SDR, you'll play a critical role in helping us achieve this mission by connecting employers with the talented students and graduates who are eager to launch their careers. Your work will have a direct impact on the lives of students and the success of our employer partners.

How to Apply

To apply for the Sales Development Representative position at Handshake, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. In your cover letter, be sure to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, and explain why you're passionate about joining Handshake and contributing to our mission. We encourage you to review our website and learn more about our company culture, values, and products before submitting your application. We are looking for highly motivated and talented individuals who are eager to make a difference in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Handshake?

Handshake is the career network for the AI economy, connecting students and graduates with employers.

What does a Sales Development Representative do?

An SDR generates and qualifies leads for the sales team through outbound and inbound efforts.

What skills are needed to be successful in this role?

Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills are essential.

What are the career advancement opportunities?

Opportunities include Account Executive, Team Lead, and Sales Manager.

What is the company culture like?

Handshake fosters a collaborative, supportive, and mission-driven environment.

What benefits does Handshake offer?

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and stock options are included.

How does Handshake support employee growth?

Handshake offers training programs, mentorship, and a culture of feedback.

What tools are used in this role?

Salesforce, Outreach, Gong, and LinkedIn Sales Navigator are commonly used.

What is the typical quota for an SDR?

Quotas are based on monthly targets for generating qualified opportunities.

How does Handshake measure success in this role?

Success is measured by consistently meeting or exceeding monthly targets.