For Nicola Gulmanelli, a Sales Specialist at the Macron Sports Hub in Ravenna, Macron represents his first real step into the world of work. He joined the company just over a year ago through the Sales Academy programme, starting with an internship in January which then turned into a vocational apprenticeship, which he is currently undertaking.

A structured induction programme, designed to train new sales staff and support them in the field right from the start.

Learning the trade – for real

A recent graduate with some previous work experience, Nicola joined Macron as a sales representative for the Macron Sports Hub in Ravenna. He says he had never been taught a proper working methodology before.

“I’d worked before, yes. But I’d never been taught a specific method. Here, I’ve really learnt how to do this job.”

From day one, he was assigned a designated area, between Ravenna and Forlì, where he now divides his time according to operational needs. This territory had already been established in previous years, but required key activities: a survey of sports clubs, acquiring new clients, building relationships and scheduling appointments. A comprehensive programme that has enabled him to experience every stage of sales work: from prospecting to making initial contact, from presenting personalised brochures right through to managing the season.

The peak season: the litmus test.

The most intense period was undoubtedly the time between late summer and early autumn.

“It’s a very gruelling time, more mentally than physically. It’s three and a half months of working flat out. You reap what you’ve sown throughout the year, but you really have to work your socks off.”

A trial by fire that helped him understand what it really means to work in sales: organisation, resilience, time management and the ability to cope with pressure.

“It was my first ‘proper’ job, in the fullest sense of the word.”

A training ground for technique and personal development

What Nicola emphasises most is the training aspect. In just over a year, he feels he has gained not only technical skills, but also a way of approaching his work.

“Over the past year, I’ve learnt what it’s like to be in this line of work and also what it’s like to work in general.”

He was impressed by the fact that he was guided through an already established methodology. A clear system, a well-defined process, a shared approach: these were the elements that made all the difference to him.

A young and positive atmosphere

As well as the professional aspect, Nicola speaks enthusiastically about the working atmosphere.

“You talk to colleagues you’ve only known for a few months as if you’d been working together for years.”

Despite the large number of people involved in meetings and shared activities, the atmosphere remains close-knit, youthful and dynamic. It is an environment where it is easy to settle in and feel part of the group right from the start.

“It’s a very positive atmosphere. It’s a lovely place to be.”

Between tradition and modernity

Nicola divides his time between Ravenna and Forlì, moving between the two showrooms as required. The layout of the spaces also plays a part in his day-to-day experience.

“Working in a modern, well-maintained, minimalist space with neutral colours – after all, it’s nice to have something pleasing to the eye.”

A detail that may seem minor, but which helps to create a stimulating and professional environment.

A first year that leaves its mark

Just over twelve months after joining the company, Nicola looks back on his journey with a sense of clarity. From a recent graduate taking his first steps to a developing professional, he has been trained through a dedicated programme and immediately put to the test in the field.

An eventful year, characterised by discipline, challenges and relationships. And it is just the beginning of a journey that continues to evolve, season after season.