What does a Sales Representative do?
Sales Representatives work in an office, contact centre, or from home to help companies identify and acquire more customers to increase their client base and boost revenue. They help develop, plan and implement their company’s sales strategies. In some cases, a Sales Representative may work as a contractor. They typically work up to 40 hours per week. Sales Representatives may travel to meet customers and may also work in the evenings, weekends and on bank holidays.
Sales Representative skills and qualifications
A successful Sales Representative candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:
- Excellent customer service skills
- Ability to sell products and services
- Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills
- Strong networking skills to build relationships with prospective and existing clients
- Proficiency in using smartphones and digital technologies to enhance communication
- Adept at using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools and data
- In-depth knowledge of sales strategy, product demonstration and sales reports
- Public speaking skills
Sales Representative experience requirements
A strong background in sales and customer service is an essential requirement for Sales Representative positions. Previous experience in retail and digital advertising is also helpful. Other experience requirements may depend on the role, industry and employer. For example, a Sales Representative selling medical products or services may need to have a background in the healthcare industry. Junior Sales Representative positions may not require specific experience requirements. However, mid-level candidates may need up to two or more years of experience, while senior-level Sales Representatives require five or more years of experience.
Sales Representative education and training requirements
A Sales Advisor typically needs a degree in a business-related subject such as business administration or customer service management. A Sales Representative selling products or services in specialised fields such as the medical, scientific or pharmaceutical industries may require additional training. Some employers consider Sales Representative candidates who have completed an intermediate or advanced Apprenticeship in Sales and Telesales or Sales Executive Higher Apprenticeship. Optional certifications and training for Sales Representatives are available from the Institute of Sales Management if you need to train candidates after employment. Most employers often prefer Sales Advisors with GCSEs and work experience.
Sales Representative salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for Sales Representative candidates is £21,714 per year. Actual pay depends on the employer, the industry, location, job duties, responsibilities, experience and qualifications.
Job description samples for related positions
Here are job description samples for related positions if you are not looking to recruit Sales Representatives:
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