My mother always used to say, “You can become anything you want, if you want it badly enough.”
When I took the PRINCE2 course, I met many interesting people with different backgrounds and experiences. There was one person in particular I connected with, perhaps because we were a little too similar. He had worked in sales his entire life, was a true people person, and had an impressive ability to read others. That is why I was a bit surprised when he started doubting whether he had what it takes to take the next step in his career. It made me reflect on something I have learned myself over the years.
Can Experience Replace Education in a Leadership Role?
We sat there talking about career goals and ambitions. He mentioned that he was considering applying for a Sales Manager position, but he was unsure whether he had what it takes. He lacked formal education and leadership experience. So I said to him:
“That Sales Manager position you think is out of reach because you lack experience or education, apply for it anyway. Focus on what you actually know and what you have achieved.”
After nearly 30 years in sales, he had built experience that went far beyond products and sales techniques. He understood people, read situations quickly, and knew how to build trust and create strong relationships. At some point, you may begin to feel that the next step is no longer about becoming a better salesperson, but about using your experience in a different way.
“Why not use everything you have learned as a springboard toward something bigger?” I asked.
“You have the experience, you have the knowledge, and you have the success stories. Now it is time to create new stories, as a Sales Manager.”
When Experience Becomes Leadership
Growth is about more than formal qualifications. It is about believing that you can grow into new roles, challenge yourself, and create new successes.
In many cases, a diverse background provides the confidence needed in leadership. A good Sales Manager does not necessarily have to be the best salesperson in the room. Much of the role involves supporting employees, creating direction, and helping others succeed.
What feels easy for you today may take someone else a long time to learn. Many of the strengths we develop through life become so natural that we stop noticing them because they have become part of who we are.
Are You Ready for the Next Step in Your Career?
It is not “despite being 50” but rather “because I am 50, I can.” Experience changes us over time. Things we once had to learn consciously eventually become a natural part of how we think, evaluate situations, and connect with people.
It is easy to remain where things feel safe and familiar. At the same time, very little growth happens there.
So what was it my mother used to say again?
“You can become anything you want, if you want it badly enough.”
Personally, I have experience relevant to a Sales Manager role through positions as an advisor and Partner Manager for Norway, although I have not yet led a sales team. It is still a role I would like to explore if I found a company where I could apply my skills, either because I strongly believed in the product, service, or idea, or because I already had deep knowledge of the field, such as technology, meeting room solutions, and displays.
