Data Entry for better teamwork - my first co-op work term

Where it all started

During my 2nd year at Telfer school of management as a Finance student, I had the honor to participate in the co-op program to help me gain invaluable experience through short-term job oppotunities that will help me grow in the professional field. I joined N-Able Technology, a dynamic and thriving MSP (managed service provider) company. Join me as I share the transformative journey during my May to August co-op term, where I discovered the power of motivation and the importance of teamwork.

New to professional workspace

Walking through the doors of N-able on my first day, I did not know what the future held. It was my first full-time office job. In the bustling office, a palpable mix of excitement and apprehension hung in the air. I was warmly welcomed by my supervisor Karam. He is also the North American region manager that does a lot of business travals. He lead me and another co-op student around the office and introduced us to the section we will be working with - the Ottawa sales team. The harmonious atmosphere within the team set the stage for a memorable and fulfilling journey.

N-able provided me amazing office set up - a laptop and 2 monitor. Although this seems normal within the professional field, I was shocked to hear I get to have my own desk at this amazing workspace. 

Unleashing Potential

Throughout the co-op term, I had the opportunity to immerse myself into several projects and a few ad-hoc tasks. I was in the sales team but it was not my only focus. I worked mainly as a data entry specialist where I call the person of contact directly, or do research on public network, and fill in the missing information onto the customer profile on the internal database - SalesForce. By doing so, it helps my colleagues that's full time calling understand more about the customer and therefore provide better tailored service. Although it was a repetative task, I had fun doing it because I understand I'm doing a great work at supporting the team for a greater good. I also picked up on some ad-hoc project from the management team such as connecting with partners for company events and leads clean-out.

The Power of Teamwork

At N-able, teamwork was not just a buzzword. It was the foundation upon which the company thrived. Each team member brings unique set of skills and perspectives, and collaboration was at the heart of our success. I witnessed how a generated lead turns into oppotunities and gets converted to partner through the sales team and account executive team members. One key aspect that fueled my motivation was the collective passion within the team. Working with such a talented and motivated team was a privilege. 

As a co-op student, I was eager to learn from the experienced professionals around me and contribute what I can to the team. The dedication and drive exhibited by each team member inspired me to push beyond my limits and deliver my best. After a few weeks of learning the basic about N-Able's service and how to manage a cold call, I got my first client just 3 weeks into the job.

Close Bond and Team Party

The trust placed in me by my colleagues and mentors instilled a sense of confidence that motivated me to excel. Moreover, the supportive environment at N-able encouraged continuous learning. I attended workshops, training sessions, and collaborate with colleagues from different departments. 

The aspect I love most about N-Able is their work culture. Under the management of regional manager Paul, Ottawa office worked under optimistic and passion. N-Able gave $15CAD UberEat credit every Tuesday and Thursday to help employee enjoy a happy lunch break from intensive work. I often go out with my colleague during lunch hour and grab food around the city. Group lunch was also a regular 'surprise'  from the management team to boost team collaboration.

(Picture: Sandwich lunch from the management team.)

Not only we build team bond at work, N-Able also host a lot of afterwork event such as team escape room. We even spend a party night at North America regional manager Karam's new house before I left.

(Picture: Team party at Karam's new house)

At last

My co-op experience at N-able has been a transformative journey that has shaped me both professionally and personally. I learned a lot about how MSP (managed service provider) works, I did a lot of work with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook. I am now a lot more proficient at those office softwares.

The most impressive thing N-Able taught me is - colleagues are not just work time partners, they can be your close-bond friend after work as well. A workspace immersed with a supportive and dynamic environment really help everyone to ease off the stress from the nature of the work and help them move onto next challenge everyday.

As I look back on my co-op term, I am filled with gratitude for the enriching experience and the inspiring individuals I had the privilege to work alongside. N-able has not only provided me with a solid foundation for my future career but has also ignited a lifelong passion for continuous growth and self-motivation.

If you would like to hear more about my story at N-Able, please connect with me throught the Connect page!

Keyword: Co-op experience, work-term, data entry, teamwork, professional workspace