Sales administrator
Administration

Related videos on a sales administrator

How to become a sales administrator

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

College

You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant courses include a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Business and Administration.

College (Entry requirements)

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job through a business administrator advanced apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Work

You may be able to work your way into this role by starting as a receptionist or administration support worker and learning on the job.

Direct application

You could apply directly if you've got the relevant skills and knowledge needed to do this job. Some employers may ask for GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths, or equivalent qualifications. Telephone, typing and IT skills will also be useful.

More info

Further information You can find out more about careers in finance from The London Institute of Banking and Finance.

What it takes

Skills & Knowledge

You'll need:

• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to sell products and services
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• persistence and determination
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

What you'll do

Day to day

Your day-to-day duties could include:

• answering customer enquiries over the phone, by email and face to face
• processing orders, credit checks and payments
• sending out invoices and other paperwork
• updating customer records
• checking stock and re-ordering supplies
• organising deliveries
• providing after-sales support
• typing up documents like letters and reports

Working environment

You could work in an office or in a contact centre.

Career path and progression

Career path & progression

With experience, you could become a sales admin team leader, personal assistant or office manager.