In this episode of the School of Presales podcast, hosted by Rainer, the focus is on the unique role of being the first sales engineer in a B2B software startup. Titled "The Pioneer's Path: Forging Success in Sales Engineering," I emphasize the dual challenge and reward of this pivotal position. Covering the imperative for technical expertise, I highlight the necessity for a seasoned professional who not only sells a product but shapes the trajectory of the entire organization. The discussion delves into the significance of a technical background, the ownership of the product, and the dynamic nature of customer interactions. Emphasizing trust as the currency for success, I advocate for a transparent, collaborative approach, dispelling the notion of information hoarding. The hands-on mindset and adaptability required in a startup environment are underscored, making it clear that the first sales engineer sets the tone for the entire team. I then wrap it up by emphasizing the importance of fair compensation for the first sales engineer, acknowledging the intrinsic link between motivation and financial security. In conclusion, the episode explores the challenges and rewards of being a pioneer in sales engineering, shaping the path for the entire team and laying the foundation for a successful organization. Listeners are invited to join the community for further discussions on all things Presales. If you like to learn more about this topic join our community https://school-of-presales.mn.co (subscription only, 14 days trial period) or read along the blog on the website https://schoolofpresales.com. This podcast complements the offering. Here I will share my thoughts, tips, stories and more about my journey in Presales and what I learned from it.