The world of Ecommerce: Starting your dream career

It’s a big wide world, out there in Ecommerce land. Have you ever seen yourself in that world, starting your dream career and beginning a new adventure? We thought so! With the help of one of our pandas, Kate, we’re going to look at beginning your career with all the right tools to become an ecommerce all-star!

Starting your dream career: What experience should you have for an ecommerce job?

There are so many ways you can find a role, with many avenues of experience to lead you there:

• Experience – Have a look for retail & customer service roles, be it an internship or a short voluntary placement. If you have previous customer experience, you’re already off to a great start!
• Degree – There is no exclusive degree to see you into an ecommerce career. The industry is so broad, with a plethora of roles you could chase. So, a degree in Marketing or a degree in Business Management…could all point you in the right direction.
• Exposure – You could find your way into the ecommerce industry and not even realise it. Kate recalls an acquaintance who was a PA within an ecommerce company. While the role was not ‘ecommerce heavy’, the exposure was there ready to put onto a CV.

What is the best attitude for an ecommerce role?

Kate, who not only has first-hand experience of working on junior roles, has entered the ecommerce industry herself. She knows exactly what to expect, and how to navigate the first few months. She filled us in on her top tips!

“Have realistic expectations, especially with salary. To increase salary prospects, here’s what you need. A positive, can-do attitude is a must! When you enter ecommerce, the role will be so broad, that there may be tasks you prefer over others. Nothing should be beneath you, so embrace these tasks. They give you so many insights into the many avenues you can explore for your future progression.”  (Ecommerce merchandising, trading, marketing…the list goes on).

Another important value to have is knowing the company or sector you want to enter. One perk of ecommerce is the many opportunities; retail, premium fashion, beauty, food…we could be here all day! Speaking of perks…

Perks of the ecommerce role

As we mentioned above, you can really tailor your career to your personal interests. You can take control of your career, and start something you are truly passionate about.

The people you meet can really shape your passion and enthusiasm to work harder. Working with likeminded people means you’re always surrounded by a team who want the same thing.

Panda tips from Kate

• Do your research! Understand the brand, and you will know the role is for you; for professional development AND culture fit! Pick the role for the right reasons!
• Talk to people! Socialise and network with everyone in the industry. You are starting your career, so talking to influential or senior figures will really inspire your journey.
• Ambition! Need I say more?
• Nothing is impossible! Give it your all, and the rewards are endless

Hungry for more ecommerce career advice?

You're in luck... we've got plenty of career tips & advice to share. Exciting!!