Sales Representative
On this page
- What's it like to be a Sales Representative?
- How to become a Sales Representative
- Latest Sales Representative jobs
- Top skills and experience for Sales Representatives
- Sales Representative role reviews
What's it like to be a Sales Representative?
Sales Representatives communicate with possible customers so they can sell the company’s products or services. Depending on the job, they may be in charge of generating or contacting leads. They may also be expected to nurture relationships to close deals or increase sales. Sales Representatives may work flexible hours and can work in different industries. Sales Representatives need strong negotiation and communication skills to expertly explain what they’re selling and answer any questions clients may have. It’s also a plus to have a background or experience in customer service to succeed in this role.
Tasks and duties
- Generating leads and understanding target audiences.
- Making phone calls or sending emails to reach out to potential clients.
- Managing client payments and ensuring transactions are complete.
- Preparing sales reports for use by the sales team.
- Forecasting targets with the use of data.
- Conducting inventory and keeping track of stocks if needed.
How to become a Sales Representative
Sales Representatives usually hold a degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Alternatively, you can commence your career in a retail position.
Consider working as a Sales Associate or Cashier in a retail shop or the food industry to gain communication and customer service skills.
Complete a degree in business, marketing, or a related field. In these degrees, you will learn the theories behind making sales and selling to consumers and clients.
Apply as a Sales Representative and gain relevant experience and learn how to strengthen your sales skills. You can also use this time to build a network for future clients.
Pave your career path and qualify for more senior roles such as Sales Manager and eventually sales director.
