Some thoughts about FAE field application engineers

Some thoughts about FAE field application engineer

FAE seems to be a similar position to pre-sales consultant, except that FAE mainly focuses on the hardware chip industry, and generally PS's focus is mainly on consulting capabilities for overall solutions related to software services, with a focus on the software application industry.

It is difficult to determine the minimum number of years. It depends on personal experience, understanding, opportunities, etc. But as a real FAE, certain development experience is essential, otherwise it will be very difficult to support customers. Some people may understand and summarize a lot of things when developing a project. Some people may develop multiple projects repeatedly, but their understanding of products or systems may still be the same. The most ideal FAE may be those design engineers who have retired from the original factory development line due to age, physical strength and other subjective reasons. They have the most say in the product, so they can often apply it with ease. Of course, the scope of development may be large or small, and each engineer may have a deep or shallow understanding of the product or system, so even the level of these first-class FAEs is not uniform. At present, domestic FAEs for semiconductors and electronic products are mostly local FAEs recruited locally. Of course, there are also FAEs from foreign headquarters who are stationed in mainland China. General recruitment requirements involve both development experience and theoretical foundation. In fact, the recruitment requirements for FAE are relatively broad compared to the requirements for developers. After all, the job content of FAE is first and foremost "proficiency", that is, proficiency in supporting requirements. Applied products are followed by promotion. Extensive technical knowledge and background are very helpful for solution design, product promotion and problem solving. Due to the diversification of product categories, there are not many opportunities to find a completely matching FAE (if you want to recruit accurately, you will have to dig among peers, but this is more risky), so many times interviewers only require candidates to have basic skills. Experience and knowledge are sufficient. Of course, interpersonal communication skills and problem analysis and positioning abilities are often key aspects to be examined.

In terms of personal experience (semiconductor product FAE), FAE positions have relatively high requirements for learning abilities (technology, knowledge, sophistication, etc.), communication abilities (foreign languages, speech, dealing with people), and logical analysis abilities. . Problems in practical applications may be within technology or outside technology, so developing and maintaining good customer relationships and partner relationships is of very positive significance for solving problems and improving customer satisfaction. In the early stages of converting from R&D to FAE, you may still face problems and customer complaints with the concept of technology first. In fact, in the final analysis, FAE needs to face not only technology, but also people (customer development engineers, project managers, Department heads, etc., partners’ FAE, sales, marketing, etc.), this is perhaps the biggest difference from R&D. Having said that, being a qualified FAE does not require you to be as sharp-tongued and well-rounded as sales. It just requires you to put in more effort, sincerity and enthusiasm.

I have been working as an original factory FAE for several years, and I have a lot of feelings and reflections. It would be a bit messy to write it down at once. I think it is just a good idea. Welcome to exchange and discuss ^amp;^! ;