bottom of the ladder

1. Lowest or most junior position in a hierarchy. For example, If we hire you, you'll have to begin at the bottom of the ladder. The rungs of a ladder have been likened to a step-wise progression since the 14th century. Also see low man on the totem pole.

Example Sentences

I am not confused by it, and neither is anyone else who is struggling at the bottom of the ladder.

From Salon

"Unless we can move on, it’s going to harm the people at the bottom of the ladder."

From BBC

They were holding the bottom of the ladder to keep it from swaying as people climbed to safety.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Ratcliff said those carrying out the crimes are often at the bottom of the ladder, carrying all the risk and seeing none of the reward.

From BBC

It's in everybody's interests, top and bottom of the ladder.

From Salon