Growth

Mastering getting your first Salesforce Admin Job: Expert tips for success

June 5, 2023
  •  
5 min read
Derek Matthews

The journey to becoming a Salesforce Administrator can be challenging, especially for those seeking entry-level positions. In the following discussion, various individuals share their experiences and offer advice on how to navigate the job market and overcome obstacles. Let's explore these insights and analyze the strategies they suggest for securing that coveted first job as a Salesforce Administrator.

Challenges faced by entry-level Salesforce job seekers

Misleading job descriptions

Companies often advertise positions as "entry-level" but require substantial experience, making it difficult for newbies to break into the field.

Competition

The job market is saturated with newly certified administrators, making it tough to stand out from the crowd.

Reluctance to invest in training

Many companies are hesitant to invest time and resources in training inexperienced candidates, as they need skilled professionals to handle their immediate needs.

Strategies for breaking into the Salesforce ecosystem

Target mid-sized companies

These companies are more likely to invest in training and have opportunities for growth, making them ideal for entry-level job seekers.

Accept lower pay initially

Being open to starting with a lower salary can provide opportunities to gain experience, which will eventually lead to higher paying roles.

Network extensively

Attend Salesforce meetups, engage with professionals in the field, and build connections to increase the chances of landing a job through referrals.

Opt for consulting firms

Consulting firms may be more willing to invest in training inexperienced candidates since they can bill clients at a higher rate for their services.

Volunteer or work on nonprofit projects

Gaining experience by working on projects for nonprofits can provide a valuable addition to your resume and demonstrate your commitment to the field. There are people that are against working with non-profits, arguing that they're not a sandbox for you to play around in. This argument does have merit. However, it's possible for you to find ways to add value and not bring down a business's non-profit operations. They don't have to be mutually exclusive.

Leverage your existing skills

Highlight your transferable skills, such as database management or programming, to show that you can be an asset even without direct Salesforce experience.

Focus on your online presence

A strong LinkedIn profile and a history of sharing accomplishments can attract potential employers and help you stand out in the competitive job market.

Remember this

Breaking into the Salesforce Administrator job market as an entry-level candidate can be a daunting task. However, by adopting the right strategies and staying persistent, it is possible to overcome these challenges and secure a rewarding position. Focus on networking, gaining experience through volunteering or working on nonprofit projects, and targeting the right types of companies to maximize your chances of success. With dedication and hard work, you'll be well on your way to a fulfilling career in the Salesforce ecosystem.

Up-level your career

Get Salesforce career advice you'll actually use, straight in your inbox.
If you don't love it, unsubscribe whenever you want.

You may also like:

Growth

Advice: Salesforce QA Lead (15 YoE) looking for next move

There are plenty of career paths that a QA lead with several years of experience can take. The hard choice is picking the right one.

Read Article
Growth

VP grills me over missed Salesforce deadline. What do I do?

Missed a deadline with Salesforce? The VP's on your ass? Explore psychological tactics to rebuild trust and sway your manager's opinion."

Read Article
News

‍Salesforce & McKinsey partner up on AI‍

McKinsey has a vested interest in helping Salesforce speed up AI adoption.

Read Article