Flockjay: The Upstart Disrupting Tech Sales Training

In the heart of San Francisco's bustling tech scene, a relatively unassuming startup is making waves far beyond the confines of Silicon Valley. Flockjay, a tech sales training platform, isn't just another ed-tech company. It's a game changer, a career catalyst, and for many, a life-altering platform. In this deep dive, we explore how Flockjay is not only transforming the way tech sales training is delivered but also reshaping lives and diversifying the tech industry. Founded in 2019, Flockjay emerged from a simple yet powerful idea: democratizing access to tech careers. Shaan Hathiramani, the CEO and founder, recognized a glaring gap in the tech industry. Despite its rapid growth and high-paying jobs, the tech world remained elusive for many, particularly those from non-traditional backgrounds or underserved communities.

Hathiramani, with a background in venture capital and a keen eye for impactful opportunities, saw the potential in tech sales. Unlike technical roles that often require years of specialized education, tech sales positions are more about soft skills, grit, and a growth mindset. He realized that with the right training, individuals from diverse backgrounds could break into tech sales, earning life-changing incomes and diversifying the industry.

The Flockjay Model

Flockjay’s model is as innovative as it is effective. The 10-week, online tech sales training program is designed to be accessible. It’s not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about hands-on learning, real-world tools, and fostering a community. The curriculum covers everything from sales techniques and software tools to the nuances of working in a tech company.

One of the most distinctive features of Flockjay is its income-share agreement (ISA). Students don't pay tuition upfront. Instead, they agree to pay a percentage of their post-graduation income for a fixed period, but only if they land a job with a salary above a certain threshold. This model aligns Flockjay's success with that of its students, creating a powerful incentive to ensure graduates are job-ready. The real impact of Flockjay is best understood through the stories of its alumni. Take Maria Gonzalez, a single mother from Oakland who worked two jobs to make ends meet. After completing Flockjay's program, she landed a tech sales role with a base salary nearly triple what she previously earned. "Flockjay didn't just give me skills; it gave me a career and financial stability for my family," Maria shares.

Then there’s John Park, a former restaurant server whose industry was ravaged by the pandemic. John turned to Flockjay, and within three months post-graduation, he was working as a Sales Development Representative at a top tech firm. “Flockjay was a lifeline during a tough time. It gave me more than a job; it gave me a new direction,” says John.

These stories aren't exceptions; they're increasingly becoming the norm for Flockjay graduates, highlighting the platform's transformative potential.

The Business Side: A Win-Win for Companies and Talent

Flockjay's model is a boon for companies as well. In a sector where finding and retaining talented sales personnel is a perennial challenge, Flockjay offers a steady pipeline of trained, motivated, and diverse talent. Companies like Zoom, Salesforce, and Asana have tapped into this resource, finding in Flockjay a partner that understands the evolving needs of tech sales.

For companies, the benefits go beyond just filling positions. Flockjay graduates bring a unique blend of life experiences and learned skills, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture, which is increasingly recognized as a key driver of innovation and business success. Flockjay’s success hasn't gone unnoticed. It has attracted significant venture capital, including an $11 million Series A in early 2021. This funding is earmarked for expanding its course offerings, enhancing its platform, and scaling its operations to meet growing demand.

But growth for Flockjay isn’t just about numbers. As Hathiramani puts it, “Our goal is to maintain the quality of training and personal touch that we're known for, even as we scale. We're not just building a business; we're building a community and a movement.”

More than Just a Company

No journey is without its challenges, and Flockjay’s is no different. As the company scales, maintaining the quality of its training and the tight-knit community feel will be crucial. Furthermore, the shifting dynamics of the tech industry, particularly in a post-pandemic world, will require constant adaptation and innovation.

Yet, the future looks bright for Flockjay. With plans to expand into other areas of tech training and a growing recognition of the need for more diverse tech talent, Flockjay is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of growth and impact. Flockjay is more than just a tech company or a training platform; it's a beacon of hope and opportunity. It stands as a testament to the power of education, the potential of technology, and the importance of diversity. In a world where inequality in tech remains a critical issue, Flockjay is not just bridging gaps; it's building new pathways.

As we watch Flockjay continue to soar, one thing is clear: this upstart from San Francisco is doing more than just disrupting tech sales training. It’s changing lives, one graduate at a time.

Meet the leader behind the success of Flockjay Top of Form

Shaan Hathiramani, Founder & CEO has a life-long passion for teaching. During careers in finance and tech, he worked at and founded financial literacy non-profits in Chicago and New York. He enjoys swimming in the San Francisco Bay.

“Our mission is to empower upward mobility through education and access.”