Sales Representative

Sales Representatives positions will vary depending on the education requirements, sales experience, and the product being sold. Standard requirements for all sales positions include having thorough knowledge of the product or a technical expertise, connecting with new and current clients, and negotiating and closing sales.

EXAMPLE SCENARIO

A Sales Representative is selling clean heating and cooling equipment to residents in a local neighborhood. The Sales Representative has done market research to determine the needs of those customers and has made a strategic plan with a goal to sell to 70% of the neighborhood. After going door-to-door, the Sales Representative has placed eight orders for new clean heating and cooling units and is on target to meet the goal.

TYPICAL TASKS SRC

  • Identify prospective customers by using business directories, following leads from existing clients, and attending trade shows and conferences.
  • Contact new and existing customers to discuss their needs and explain how specific products and services can meet these needs.
  • Negotiate prices and terms of sales and service agreements.
  • Prepare sales contracts and submit orders for processing.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to exchange information such as selling strategies, marketing information, and technical expertise.

EXAMPLE JOB TITLES

Sales Consultant, Account Manager, Product Manager, Product Sales Representative

MEDIAN PAY SRC

$61,660

EDUCATION & TRAINING LEVEL

Education varies from GED/ High School Diploma to Bachelor’s Degree, On-the-job Training

WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

None

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

Analytical Skills, Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Decision-Making Skills, Organizational Skills, Customer-service Skills, Negotiation Skills

SIMILAR OCCUPATIONS

Purchasing Agents, Retail Sales Workers, Advertising Sales Agent, Technical Sales Engineer