Employee Interviews

Everything we do is for our customers’ ‘thank you.

K.N

Department: Domestic Sales Department (Japan)

Previous Employment: Sales at a connector and terminal manufacturer

What clients or markets are you in charge of?

I primarily handle route sales to existing customers in the automotive parts and industrial equipment sectors. I focus on building strong relationships with customers while proposing products and services that meet their needs. In addition, I work on acquiring new customers and selecting new suppliers, taking on a wide range of responsibilities as a sales representative. I always keep an eye on market trends to ensure I can provide the most appropriate proposals.

9:00
Start work,
check emails, and share my schedule for the day internally
9:30
Meeting: report on the previous week’s activities
11:00
Review proposals and consult with my supervisor
(Report and consult with your supervisor)
12:00
Lunch Break
13:00
Leave the office
14:00
Visit clients and conduct proposal activities
15:00
Return to the office, report on meetings, and review any issues
16:00
Respond to inquiries and prepare quotations
17:00
Confirm the schedule for the next day
17:30
End of the work day

Please tell us a memorable moment you experienced at Autec.

A new customer once approached us regarding a product that was difficult to source. By leveraging the network of my senior colleagues, we were able to procure and successfully deliver the product.
This led to the start of a new business relationship, and the customer now entrusts us with sourcing other components as well. I believe one of our company’s strengths is our ability to come together as an organization to solve our customers’ challenges.

How does the team work together and what is the atmosphere like?

In our sales activities, we discuss customers’ challenges and requests as a team and work together to develop solutions. There is an open and supportive atmosphere where we can easily consult with one another when difficulties arise, allowing us to maintain strong teamwork. While the company has clear overall policies, individuals are also encouraged to exercise their own judgment and creativity in the field. This allows us to act on our own ideas, while also taking on responsibility—something that makes the work especially rewarding. We also have many opportunities to visit customers together with supervisors and senior colleagues, which allows us to learn from real interactions firsthand. This environment contributes to our growth through daily sales activities.

Message for those considering joining sales as a mid-career hire

Sales is a role that offers many opportunities to interact with people outside the company, such as customers and suppliers, allowing you to expand your professional network. Through these encounters and conversations, you can broaden your perspective and naturally develop your communication skills. Sales at a trading company requires knowledge of the products we handle, so it may feel challenging at first. However, our company has several experienced sales representatives who previously worked for manufacturers of our main products. We have a strong support system that provides practical guidance and ongoing support from senior colleagues. Even if you have no prior experience in the industry, you can start with confidence. I encourage you to take the first step.

How do you spend your days off? (Hobbies, etc…)

On my days off, I like to stay active by jogging and exercising, which helps me refresh. Especially on nice days, taking in the fresh air allows me to relax and reset.
I also enjoy trying new restaurants and spending time having meals with friends. These activities help me recharge both mentally and physically, which in turn supports my motivation at work.

Message

As a small but highly capable and agile organization, each individual’s contributions have a significant impact on the company’s overall growth. You can truly feel that your efforts directly contribute to the company’s progress, making the work highly rewarding. I believe our company still has great potential for further growth. We welcome those who are eager to grow both personally and together with the company. We look forward to working with you!