Lee Docherty

A very sociable role

"I graduated with a degree in Accounting, but was disillusioned with my first office job. My mum had worked with Imperial Tobacco and I could see how good the training was. I'd gained some sales experience throughout my University years – so I started here as a trainee rep. Today I'm promoting and merchandising strategic brands for an area which covers most of North Lanarkshire.

There are plenty of opportunities to progress and develop skills here, such as leadership programmes. Personally I've found the company's 'Negotiation Skills' course very helpful. It's improved my effectiveness as a rep – something I still love the challenge of doing. It's always been a very sociable role which offers plenty of flexibility when it comes to working hours."

Getting organised

"Self-motivated people thrive here, especially as you're given the autonomy to manage your own area. We have set objectives and targets – and we're left to our own devices how we achieve them. Of course, you have to get organised for the week, so preparation at home is part of the job, such as planning your routes and preparing paperwork.

However, while you're working under your own initiative, you're still a member of a team. It's very important not only to achieve your own set targets, but help everyone. I believe that to succeed in this role you need a talent for communication and the ability to get on with people. We're not cold callers; we build up relationships with people so we can further clients and our own trade."

Thinking fast

"You always have to think fast and on your feet, as you never know how long the trader will have time to speak to you or when a customer will enter the shop. Also, you can't 'dilly dally' because there's a call rate to achieve – hang around and you may not get around all the shops in good business time.

We're very people orientated here, and that's apparent through the loads of training and support on offer. Your ideas are listened to and the company will help you reach your own personal goals within the organisation."