2023-07-25 06:00:09
Christina Magpantay
At GBN, the administrative staff is the backbone of the organization. Our team is engaged in varied tasks that require a wide range of skills such as communication, persuasion, customer relationship management, problem solving and the ability to work under pressure.
One of our administrative staff, Christina Magpantay, has all of these skills and more. They were developed in his previous position focused on sales and customer experience, through his interaction with various stakeholders, including colleagues, customers and suppliers. In addition, his problem-solving ability and prioritization skills are valuable assets at GBN, where coordination and organization are key.
We had the opportunity to interview Christina regarding her work in administration, her motivations and how her unique experience in sales and customer relations has helped her succeed in the administrative world.
GBN: How do you use your sales skills in an administrative role?
Christina Magpantay : My sales skills can be extremely beneficial in an administrative role. As a salesperson, I learned how to build strong relationships with customers, understand their needs and find suitable solutions.
These skills are useful to me in an administrative role as I can use them to interact effectively with my team members, internal and external clients. I also acquired excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing. I am used to working with objectives and following specific processes to achieve results.
My experience at GBN has confirmed that these skills allow me to effectively manage administrative tasks, communicate information clearly, process documents with precision and ensure optimal organization.
GBN: Are there any specific sales skills that you find particularly useful in an administrative context?
Christina Magpantay : Sales-specific skills that I consider particularly useful in an administrative context are time management, organization, flexibility and the ability to meet objectives within the given deadlines.
Time management is crucial to maximizing the efficiency of my working days. I learned to set priorities, plan my activities and meet deadlines. These skills allow me to organize myself effectively, not to be overwhelmed by tasks and to manage my schedule in an optimal way. For example, I managed to get my general culture diploma for adults while working in a clothing store. My success results from my sense of organization, my perseverance and my ability to work independently.
Flexibility is also an essential skill in sales, as it is often necessary to adapt quickly to changing customer needs and unforeseen situations. This adaptability allows me to face challenges proactively and find creative solutions to problems that arise.
GBN: Can you give us concrete examples of skills you have acquired in sales that you can apply to administration?
Christina Magpantay : First, building strong relationships is a skill I learned in sales that can be applied to administration.
In sales, building positive relationships with customers is key to fostering loyalty and earning referrals. Similarly, in administration, building positive relationships with colleagues, line managers, and external stakeholders promotes cooperation, trust, and smooth operations.
Second, time management is a skill I honed as a salesperson. In a sales environment, it’s common to manage multiple clients, while meeting deadlines and prioritizing tasks efficiently.
This skill is extremely valuable in administration, where time management, the ability to juggle different responsibilities and organize schedules are essential to complete projects and ensure overall productivity.
GBN: Can you give us an example of a situation where you had to demonstrate flexibility and adaptability, essential qualities during a career transition?
Christina Magpantay : Of course ! During my experience as a saleswoman in a ready-to-wear store, I faced a situation that I had never faced. Indeed, I was assigned to take over an online sales meeting at the last moment, with only ten minutes of preparation. I accepted the challenge and although my performance was not perfect, I learned from the experience. I observed my colleagues carefully and took notes to improve myself. I took charge of online sales together with team members and we developed an action plan that led to continued success, exceeding our targets every month. Following this experience, this new function was integrated into my specifications.
I am aware of the importance of flexibility and adaptability during a career transition. This example illustrates my ability to take initiatives, to surpass myself and above all to adapt to the challenges that arise. I am ready to take on new challenges with enthusiasm and determination.
GBN: How do you intend to continue to develop your skills in the field of administration?
Christina Magpantay : There are always new things to learn and that is what is exciting.
I plan to enroll in online courses and specialized training programs in administration. These trainings will give me the opportunity to acquire new skills, improve my existing knowledge and familiarize myself with the latest tools and software used in the field.
I also believe in the importance of learning from other people. I am open to the possibility of working in a team and exchanging ideas with my colleagues and peers. I seek to take advantage of their experiences and knowledge to continue to develop my administrative skills.
Regarding my professional development, I am always open to doing internships to gain practical experience and apply my theoretical knowledge in a real environment.
GBN: How can your sales experience help you manage the stress and demands of an administrative position?
Christina Magpantay : It helps a lot!
Concentration, composure and organization are essential for working under pressure in both areas. For example, I had to take the initiative to replace the store manager during an emergency. It was a very stressful time when I had to close the store and delegate tasks to my colleagues. Despite the stress, I was able to stay calm, focused and organized. I managed to complete the tasks and meet the demands, in order to achieve our goals that day.
GBN: Thank you for your time!
Christina Magpantay : It was a pleasure.
From the same author :
Communication and team spirit: The added values of the administration
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