CRO · Framework · Intermediate · Saves 25+ hours
SDR Career Progression Path
A framework for SDR career progression and development.
What's included
- Career Paths
- SDR to AE
- SDR to SDR Manager
- SDR to Marketing
- SDR to CS
- Progression Criteria
- Performance requirements
- Skill requirements
- Timeline expectations
- Development Program
- Skill building
- Exposure opportunities
- Mentorship
- Transition Process
- Interview process
- Transition timeline
- Onboarding to new role
Best used when
- Building SDR career paths
- Improving retention
- Developing talent
- Planning promotions
The template
The Template
CAREER PATHS
SDR Career Options
SDR CAREER PATHS
PATH 1: SDR → AE
Timeline: 12-18 months
Requirements:
☐ Consistent quota attainment (12+ months)
☐ Quality metrics exceeding benchmarks
☐ Demonstrated closing skills
☐ Manager recommendation
Process: Internal interview, ride-alongs, ramp
PATH 2: SDR → SDR TEAM LEAD
Timeline: 18-24 months
Requirements:
☐ Top performer (12+ months)
☐ Coaching/mentorship demonstrated
☐ Leadership qualities
☐ Training participation
Process: Shadow management, lead projects
PATH 3: SDR → MARKETING
Timeline: 12-18 months
Requirements:
☐ Strong messaging skills
☐ Content creation interest
☐ Marketing collaboration
Process: Marketing project work, interview
PATH 4: SDR → CUSTOMER SUCCESS
Timeline: 12-18 months
Requirements:
☐ Strong relationship skills
☐ Customer-centric mindset
☐ Product expertise
Process: CS shadow, interview
Progression Timeline
| Milestone | Timeline | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Fully ramped | 3-4 months | 100% activity |
| Promotion eligible | 12 months | Top 25% |
| Senior SDR | 18 months | Consistent top performer |
| Promotion | 18-24 months | Role-specific criteria |
PROMOTION CRITERIA
AE Promotion Requirements
SDR-TO-AE PROMOTION CRITERIA
PERFORMANCE (must meet all):
☐ 12+ months in SDR role
☐ 6+ months at 100%+ quota
☐ SAL acceptance rate >80%
☐ Top 50% of SDR team
SKILLS (must demonstrate):
☐ Discovery call competency
☐ Objection handling mastery
☐ Pipeline management
☐ CRM proficiency
READINESS ASSESSMENT:
☐ Shadow 10+ AE calls
☐ Run mock discovery calls (pass)
☐ Close practice deal (role-play)
☐ Manager endorsement
TIMELINE:
Application: _______________
Interview: _______________
Decision: _______________
Transition: _______________
Frequently asked questions
What is the SDR Career Progression Path?
A framework for SDR career progression and development.
Who is the SDR Career Progression Path for?
It is built for CROs and their teams working on SDR/BDR Operations. The AI coach adapts it to your company, stage, and goals.
How long does the SDR Career Progression Path take to use?
It saves roughly 25+ hours versus building from scratch. Our AI coach can tailor the framework to your situation in minutes, then hand you a step-by-step plan.
Is the SDR Career Progression Path free?
Yes. You can read the full framework and start getting coached through it for free. Sign in to save your tailored version and track your next steps.
How does the AI coach help with the SDR Career Progression Path?
The coach teaches you the framework, asks a few questions about your business, tailors the framework to you, and gives you measurable next steps to execute.