Meet Sam Phan, Sales Development Representative
Seven months into his role as Sales Development Representative, Sam Phan received the VOICE Award at an Abnormal company all-hands meeting. He wasn't expecting it, and in retrospect, it made perfect sense. At Abnormal, SDRs don't follow scripts. They shape the conversation.
August 16, 2025
First Contact, Real Stakes
As an SDR based in the UK, Sam is often the first voice security leaders hear from Abnormal. His days blend research, relationship-building, and strategic outreach across email, LinkedIn, and phone calls.
"I'm reaching out to IT and security leaders at some of the world's most innovative companies," he explains. "As normally the first point of contact, I want to make sure they understand how we can help protect them against ever-changing attacks."
The work is fast-paced and unpredictable. "Some days are full of energy and responses, other days can feel quiet. That's what keeps it exciting, and having a team that supports you makes all the difference."
The Values That Changed Everything
Of all Abnormal's values, Intellectual Honesty resonates most with Sam. Coming from sales environments where feedback could feel "filtered or cautious," Abnormal's culture was a revelation.
"We're encouraged to speak up, challenge assumptions, even if it's uncomfortable. My manager loves honest feedback, and I feel comfortable sharing it."
That openness isn't theoretical. When Sam flagged confusing messaging in a recent campaign, his manager immediately adjusted it. "That kind of trust is rare. It creates an environment where people feel safe being honest and pushing toward the best outcomes."
AI as a Creative Partner
Sam uses AI throughout his workflow, and not as a replacement for thinking. "I use it primarily to streamline research. It helps me quickly sift through vast amounts of data and reports, which saves valuable time."
AI also helps with content creation: drafting emails for specific personas, understanding job-specific pain points, and generating messaging angles he might not have considered. "It helps me enhance my communication skills and ensures clarity and impact in all my interactions."
SDRs Have a Seat at the Table
What sets Abnormal apart from other companies?
"SDRs here have a real voice in go-to-market strategy. We partner closely with marketing and AEs, and our feedback genuinely shapes how we approach the market."
Growth here comes from collaboration, not activity metrics. "It's about contributing to something bigger."
Growth Through Recognition
The VOICE Award Sam received wasn't personal validation. It reflected the culture he's experienced since day one. "It felt less like a personal win and more like a reflection of the environment I'm lucky to be part of," he says.
The recognition came from collaborating closely with AEs and managers who "pushed me, coached me, and made space for my voice in every conversation. I felt supported every step of the way."
