From my viewing experience I've seen more people move up in the company than new people being brought in. But they alawys interview both sides anyway.

Every company is different and I have no idea what Cingular is like in this regard, but in many cases it's best to go elsewhere. If you stay there, you might be looked upon as "that guy in sales" who wants a promotion. Where as if you go elsewhere, you're coming in as someone with a college degree and two years of practical work experience in sales.
Unfortunately, this happens with many companies nowadays. The days of staying at the same place forever and working your way up the ladder are becoming a thing of the past. Again, this doesn't apply to ALL companies. Good luck.

I myself was employed at Cingular, I am now with an authorized agent for Cingular. From what I saw while in sales for two years, It is very possible to move up somewhat. Of the co-workers and managers I have worked with, they were promoted, but indirectly still in sales in some way. For example, I had a manager whom transfered to be manager of indirect agents, the assistant manager be came a manager under him for independent reps. Others just moved to assistant managers. I have seen a few people try to get completely out of sales and stay with the company, and the were not successful in doing so. I hope this helps....Good Luck