Sales Representative
Job Description:Sales representatives meet or ring customers to persuade them to buy products or services.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll specialise in a particular industry, like consumer goods, medical supplies, or energy. You may sell directly to consumers, or to other businesses.
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- contacting new and existing customers
- making presentations to promote new products
- agreeing sales, prices and delivery
- keeping in contact with customers before and after a sale
recording orders - going to conferences to understand industry trends
- meeting sales targets
Skills:
You’ll need:
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- the ability to sell & negotiate products and services
- customer service skills
- persistence and determination
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptability)
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork)
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- organisational skills
Entry Requirements:
There are no set requirements, but experience of working in an office or call centre could help.
For some sales jobs, such as technical or pharmaceutical sales, you may need to have a relevant qualification like a degree.
You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work 38 to 40 hours, Monday to Friday, but may need to work evenings or weekends. Occasionally you’ll stay away overnight, or travel abroad to trade fairs and conferences.
You may drive to visit customers. When not on the road, you’ll work from a sales office or call centre. Sometimes you’ll work from home. You’ll usually need a driving licence and may need a passport.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could become a sales team leader or an area sales manager.