Not every career begins with a clear plan. Some begin with courage, uncertainty, and a decision to start again. For Mai Eid Mohamed, that moment came when she graduated from the Faculty of Archaeology. While many of her peers followed the traditional path related to their studies, Mai realized she wanted something different, a career built around people, communication, and real world impact.
That decision marked the beginning of a journey that would transform her life. Moving from archaeology to sales was not easy. It meant stepping into an unfamiliar world, learning new skills, and proving herself in competitive environments. But it also helped her discover her true strengths.
Choosing Communication Over Convention
Mai was always drawn to communication and influence. She enjoyed conversations that created change and moments where words could open doors. She wanted a career where effort could be measured and results could be seen.
Sales and business offered exactly that. For Mai, sales was never about pushing products. It was about understanding people, building trust, and creating long term value. The field challenged her daily and pushed her to grow both emotionally and professionally.
She recognized early on that sales demanded adaptability and constant improvement, qualities that aligned perfectly with her mindset.
Learning from the Ground Up
Transitioning from an academic background into sales meant starting from zero. Mai had no formal business education, but she brought determination, discipline, and a strong willingness to learn.
She invested time in understanding communication, negotiation, persuasion, and business fundamentals. Through online programs, workshops, and hands-on experience, she steadily built the skills needed to succeed.
The early stages were challenging, with moments of uncertainty and slow progress. Yet Mai chose consistency over comfort, trusting the process and continuing to move forward.
Gaining Experience Across the MENA Region
Over time, Mai built more than five years of experience working in sales across the Middle East and North Africa region. Exposure to different markets strengthened her cultural awareness and adaptability.
Each region taught her the importance of listening, understanding local business dynamics, and building relationships rooted in trust. These experiences played a key role in shaping her confidence and emotional intelligence.
They also reinforced her belief that strong communication and genuine connection are the foundations of long term success in sales.
Current Role and Career Vision
Today, Mai works as a Senior Sales Development Representative covering the MENA region, with a strong focus on the Gulf market. In her role, she contributes to pipeline growth, supports market expansion initiatives, and helps generate high-quality enterprise level meetings through strategic outreach and relationship building.
She views this role as a stepping stone toward her long-term goal of growing into a business developer and consultant, where she can contribute at a more strategic level and help organizations scale sustainably.
For Mai, sales is the best training ground for leadership. It builds resilience, sharpens problem-solving skills, and develops a deep understanding of people and markets.
The Achievement That Defines Her Journey
Mai considers her greatest achievement to be successfully transitioning from a non-business academic background into a competitive sales career. This milestone represents resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to growth.
She proved that careers can be rebuilt and that skills can be learned through effort and persistence. Her journey reinforces the belief that a clear vision matters more than a traditional starting point.
Lessons Learned Through Experience
One of the most important lessons Mai learned is that adaptability and continuous learning are essential in today’s business world. Markets evolve, and professionals must evolve with them.
She learned to welcome feedback, remain open to learning, and treat challenges as opportunities for growth. This mindset helped her stay proactive and focused, even during demanding phases of her career.
A Lifestyle Built Around Growth
Mai’s lifestyle today reflects discipline, intention, and continuous self-improvement. She prioritizes learning, reflection, and skill development, believing that success is as much personal as it is professional.
By investing in herself, she continues to grow not only as a sales professional but also as an individual with clarity and purpose.
Her journey resonates strongly with young professionals who feel uncertain about their career direction or hesitant to start over.
Advice to Her Younger Self
If Mai could speak to her younger self, she would emphasize the importance of early learning, seeking mentors, and stepping outside comfort zones. She believes real-world experience and practical skills often matter more than rigid academic paths.
Above all, she would remind herself that persistence outweighs talent when challenges arise.
A Vision to Inspire Others
Looking ahead, Mai aims to make a lasting impact in sales and business development across the MENA region. She hopes to mentor others, contribute to meaningful growth strategies, and support professionals navigating career transitions.
She wants her story to encourage others to believe in their potential and embrace change with confidence.
Why This Story Matters Today
In a time when many professionals feel uncertain about their future, Mai’s journey stands as a powerful reminder that reinvention is possible. Degrees do not define destiny, and backgrounds do not limit potential.
What truly matters is the willingness to learn, adapt, and keep moving forward. From archaeology to sales success, Mai’s story is one of courage, resilience, and growth.
Do follow her on Instagram
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