Job description

The sales department of any business produces a steady flow of paperwork and it's the job of the sales support team to ensure this is dealt with timely and efficiently. It's an important role as it allows the members of the sales team to spend more time selling rather than performing admin duties.

Working in a sales environment is often quite pressurised and you'll need to be super organised to deal with order forms, invoices, setting appointments and other general admin duties. Your other daily duties might include:

• Keeping records of sales targets
• Fielding calls from prospective customers
• Typing quotes for customers
• Dealing with other general correspondence
• Liaising with accounts department to generate invoices
• Managing diaries of key sales people
• Preparing sales reports for senior management
• Updating internal spreadsheets

As a rule of thumb, the standard 35-40 hour week will apply though be prepared for some longer hours as and when needed, particularly during periods when there is pressure to meet sales targets, for example at the end of each quarter.

Qualifications aren't necessary for the role, though employers will look favourably upon any voluntary qualifications such as the European Computer Driving Licence. Mostly, you'll need at least a good basic education to GCSE level and preferably some previous experience of having worked in an administrative environment. Future employers will be particularly looking for some, if not all of the following skills:

• The ability to handle and thrive under pressure
• A good grasp of the basic MS software packages
• Accuracy and efficiency
• A good command of English
• A team player
• The ability to adapt
• Excellent customer service skills

Once you've been in the sales support role for a while, you may well be promoted to Sales Support Executive where you will be expected to manage and co-ordinate the sales support staff within the department.

Salary Information