Working at Probst—in sales

Previously living in Canada, then moving back to Germany. Here he is acting worldwide as an Area Sales Manager for Probst.

Daniel Wiesel talks about his virtual application process and his biggest project to date: helping to establish Probst's Canadian subsidiary.

How long have you been with Probst? What does your everyday life at Probst look like?

The story of how I came to Probst is really interesting: The last two years I lived in Canada, but wanted to work for a German company again. Due to the pandemic I wasn’t even sure if this would work at all. Interviews on site in Germany were not possible due to travel restrictions but then I became aware of Probst through a job advertisement.

The position as Area Sales Manager really appealed to me, so I applied. Instead of face-to-face meetings on site, everything was then done via video calls. There Probst has already proven that they can react flexibly and quickly to extraordinary circumstances. After two pleasant and interesting interviews, I was convinced by the job and the company. Probst also seemed to be just as convinced of me, otherwise I wouldn't be sitting here today. (laughs)

In my day-to-day work, I travel abroad a lot. I support our resellers and their customers in different regions of the world. Just last week I was in Kazakhstan and in September for two weeks in Mexico. In a nutshell: I support our global partners in promoting our products better. In addition to product and sales knowledge, this requires a great deal of intercultural sensitivity—every region has different needs. But that is exactly what is incredibly fun and what drives me every day and makes me happy.

What was the last big project you successfully completed?

I don't have to think about that for long: This was the active involvement in the establishment of our branch in Canada—a large and exciting project. Our sales manager brought me on board right on my first day of work. I lived in Canada before and it was important to him that I contribute my knowledge of the country and its people. Immediately I felt very valued.

We then established the branch in just six weeks. That was a truly extraordinary performance. This was only possible because we work so well together as a team.

What makes working with your colleagues at Probst so special?

There are many different characters at Probst. Everyone can contribute ideas and suggestions here—which can then be quite different. (laughs) But in the end, everyone pulls together and pursues the same goal. It is fun when the suggestions are followed by action and the corresponding processes are optimized. Therefore, regular exchange with the team is extremely important.

Even if I sometimes get stuck, I can rely on my colleagues in the team. My colleagues support me and together we then look for a solution.

Probst says they make hard work easier for their customers. Is that also true for its employees?

Absolutely, yes. A lot of consideration was given to my personal situation. From the moment I applied until I signed my contract, my colleagues and supervisors were in constant contact with me. The managing director even helped me find an apartment. Coming fresh out of Canada, this was extremely helpful.

From the first day of work, I quickly noticed that the company attaches great importance to quickly integrate new employees into the "Probst family". There are various measures for this: For example, there was a detailed induction plan where I got to know every area of the company.

And then there are also campaigns, such as "Come Together": This was an internal challenge. Each colleague should get to know three other colleagues better in a face to face conversation. Such actions bring us closer together – This is particularly important internationally, as colleagues for Probst have long been traveling all over the world.

The canteen is also a great place to exchange ideas with colleagues. After all, you don't just get good ideas at your desk, but also at lunch chatting with colleagues. (laughs) There is a freshly prepared vegetarian meal every day, cooked by a company here around the corner. Or you can order one of several menus, which are then delivered to the canteen. Both meals are also partially covered by Probst.

Those who like to do shopping can secure discounts at online stores via corporate benefits. Probst's support is therefore versatile.

What is your favorite "Probst moment" so far?

The Swabian language exhilarates me every day. That is my permanent "Probst moment"—I would say. (laughs)

An absolutely unique highlight, however, was when I held the certificate of incorporation of the Canadian branch in my hands. The fact that we managed the project together as a team in such a short time was a great feeling. It was entirely my moment, because at that time Probst had great confidence not only in me but also in our Canadian branch from the very beginning.

Our colleagues here have also proven that they can adapt quickly to unusual circumstances such as the pandemic. This is another reason why we were able to withstand this crisis well.

But sure, I'm still happy to finally be able to go to a garden and landscaping show in Ontario next year. I'm already excited to see how it feels to be back in Canada. Technology makes many things easier, but certainly not everything—direct contact with our customers and partners remains very important to me.

Imagine meeting your younger "self" on Day 1 at Probst: What tip would you give yourself along the way?

Of course, I was a bit unsure at the beginning, because I had never seen the company and only met the people virtually. Therefore, I would advise myself: Always assume the best. Everyone here is super welcoming and will help you if something doesn't work out. And that's exactly what really counts, isn't it?