Sales Administrator
Job Description:Sales administrators process sales orders and payments, arrange deliveries and offer after-sales support.
Job Category:What you will do:
On a typical day you could:
- answer customer enquiries over the phone, by email and face to face
- take and process customer orders and payments
- do credit checks, raise invoices and deal with paperwork
- update customer records
- check stock and re-order supplies
- organise deliveries
- provide after-sales support
- type up documents like letters and reports
Skills:
You’ll need:
- customer service skills
- business management skills
- the ability to sell products and services (creativity)
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to use your initiative (ambition)
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- persistence and determination
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
Entry Requirements:
To become a Sales Administrator, there are no specific subject requirements, but having a well-rounded education can be advantageous. Sales Administrators typically handle various administrative tasks in support of the sales team. Here are some subjects that can be helpful in preparing for a career in this field:
- Mathematics (Maths): A solid understanding of mathematics can be beneficial for handling sales data, calculations, and financial records.
- English Language: Good communication skills, including written communication, are essential for creating sales reports, composing emails, and interacting with clients and team members.
- Business Studies: Business studies can provide a foundational understanding of basic business concepts and principles, which are relevant to sales and administration.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Proficiency in using computer software and databases is important for maintaining and organising sales records.
- Economics: While not essential, a course in economics can provide a deeper understanding of economic concepts that may be relevant in a sales and business context.
Post School
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.
In the UK, for example, courses include:
- Diploma in Business and Administration
- Level in Sales and Account Management
- Level in Management and Administration
Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through a business administrator 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.
Telephone, typing and IT skills will also be useful.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 38-40 hours of work. You could be required to work weekends.
You could work in an office or in a contact centre.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could become a sales admin team leader, personal assistant or office manager.