Always Learning

I was anything but an “exceptional” student. I was always somewhat disinterested in what was being taught in school, from kindergarten through college (remember, I was an accounting major somehow). This is not to say I was a bad student; I did fine and was more than respectful to my teachers and had a lot of fun throughout. But at the same time, I was always bored and got distracted easily because what was being taught was a little interest to me. Again, this is not to say I had bad teachers, or my school wasn’t “right for me”, I simply wasn’t interested in what was being taught.

Not until I started my sales career did I realize how much I enjoy – even love – learning. I am obsessed with learning about the technologies I sell, learning about selling techniques, and learning about people. I now immerse myself in learning – all day every day.

Each morning, before turning my phone or laptop on, I read for 30 minutes. I call this my “necessity” reading time. The book I read in the morning is always related to either sales, mental health, or “self help” – though I am not a fan of that phrase. I am always looking to better myself – and I’ve found that starting my day with learning something new has helped me do just that.

“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” — Anthony J. D’Angelo

For my “pleasure reading” – which is anytime I feel like it, I rotate between fiction and non-fiction, biographies – truly anything I want. While this doesn’t directly correlate to what I’m doing in sales, it does help to learn how authors create stories inside your head, using your imagination. Another thing I love about reading is that you are in control of creating the story inside your head, how the characters look, talk etc.

I’ve found that adding in non-fiction to my reading cadence has helped me be more creative. Whether it’s my writing style, event planning or adding new words to my toolbelt – I’m constantly absorbing new information and putting it into practice in my daily life.

Within the cybersecurity and network infrastructure industry, the technology is everchanging. New vendors, new solutions – new everything. Staying on top of all the changes is not realistic – may not even be possible. But taking the time to learn about trends and understanding why new technology exists – that is where I focus my attention. Luckily, I have the support of my Nexum team to fully embrace and understand the latest and greatest.

There are many-many other ways to learn. Podcasts, webinars – simply talking with your peers! In my opinion, learning means improving, progressing, and a commitment to your craft. That’s why I’m always learning.

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-Tanner L. Warner