Edvinas Petkus, the Sales Manager at “Das Work,” has been named the Best Employee of 2022. This achievement highlights the tremendous efforts made, the new clients acquired, favorable deals closed, and the sincere camaraderie maintained with the company’s team. Edvinas agreed to share his story and how he managed to achieve so much.
Only a fraction of people know what they want to become when they grow up, and an even smaller number actually pursue the career they dream of. Finding one’s path is not easy, but it has its positive side—along the way, you gain a lot of experience that shapes your personality and reveals the multifaceted nature of life.
From a young age, Edvinas dreamed of becoming a footballer, and he succeeded. He played professionally for FBK Kaunas in Lithuania and Heart of Midlothian FC in Scotland. However, life had more surprises in store.
A Major Life Decision—Choosing a Field of Study
After finishing high school, I enrolled at the Lithuanian Sports University. I would describe that period as inertial because I didn’t really know what I wanted to study or if I was even ready for it. I just followed my group of friends, and we chose our studies together. After trying it out, I dropped out after a year. At the age of 20, I moved to Germany to be with my family, where I continued playing football. There, I learned German, passed the necessary exams, and completed my studies in event management. All the experience I gained in Germany helps me daily in my current job.
Other People’s Hardships Inspire a Reevaluation of Values
My first job upon arriving in Germany was with the Red Cross, where I transported disabled individuals to healthcare facilities, helped them with shopping, and so on. This sensitive year-and-a-half period made me realize that not everything that makes a person happy is tied to financial values.
Later, I got a job in marketing at a museum in Germany, but I never abandoned football—it remained both my job and my hobby.
Experience Always Pays Off
At “Das Work,” together with the team, we focus heavily on the German market, so my knowledge of the language and understanding of German mentality is very helpful. Being able to anticipate clients’ actions gives a significant advantage in negotiations. Thus, the 10 years I spent in Germany provided me with valuable experience.
I also greatly value my four years of experience at Lufthansa, where I worked in sales within the business events sector. Starting at Lufthansa, I encountered an even higher level of sales and communication. It required a lot of catching up, but I believe I succeeded.
Essential Qualities in Sales
In terms of personality traits, I believe that a friendly and trustworthy manner of speaking, combined with confidence in what you are saying, is most beneficial. From a communication standpoint, it’s important to clearly and simply present the benefits of the proposed collaboration to the client.
I tend to rely on numbers and facts, which I can clearly communicate to both existing and potential business partners.
Life Always Leads You Where You Need to Go
I wasn’t specifically looking for a career in logistics—I was quite happy with event management work in Germany. After returning to Lithuania, I realized that knowing German could be very useful and provide many advantages.
I owe my current position to a chance encounter. Only later did I realize how vast the logistics field is, especially in the context of Lithuania. In the beginning, there was a lot to learn, and many questions still arise today, but we strive and grow together as a team.
In Challenging Situations, the Team Is the Greatest Asset
The most difficult decisions are those crisis decisions that need to be made immediately, as there is very little time to assess the situation. In these moments, the greatest help is the team, moving together towards a common goal. We don’t have individual leaders; we depend heavily on each other. I think that’s partly what makes it so fascinating.
For Those Considering a Career in Logistics
I recommend thinking twice about whether it’s worth it (laughs). But on a more serious note, I believe you should always try it out to understand if it’s the right fit for you. Only by trying can you truly grasp all the advantages and disadvantages of this field.
Edvinas Petkus’ example shows how you can leverage your experiences and talents to achieve goals and boldly explore new paths. If the logistics field appeals to you or if you want to learn more about it, “Das Work” is constantly looking for drivers (CE category) to work in Germany and Western Europe. Contact us now—we look forward to your introduction.
