The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Administrative Assistant / Office Coordinator
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Organisation, scheduling, communication, basic tech support, managing multiple priorities, attention to detail.
You're ready to move on when
- You're the 'go-to' person for sorting out logistical challenges in your current role.
- You've successfully managed complex calendars or event schedules.
- You enjoy helping others and making processes run smoothly.
- 2
Customer Service Representative
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Problem-solving, clear communication (written and verbal), patience, managing expectations, understanding customer needs.
You're ready to move on when
- You're excellent at troubleshooting issues and guiding people through processes.
- You're calm under pressure and can de-escalate frustrated customers.
- You enjoy explaining things clearly and concisely to help others.
- 3
Junior Sales Support / Sales Development Representative (SDR)
0-1 yearSkills to master
- Understanding the sales process, using CRM systems, basic sales communication, dealing with rejection, resilience.
You're ready to move on when
- You understand the pressures of a sales target and the daily life of a rep.
- You're familiar with Salesforce or similar CRM tools.
- You're keen to move into a support role that still impacts sales success.


