Sales Rep 101 – Chapter 1

Why Sales

Being in Sales can be very stressful and high paced, but if you have the energy and the right personality Sales can be a great career choice. The earning potential that you can have in most sales positions is very high. Even on down years you can earn more than most jobs that pay you a salary. But on the flip side, most sales positions are commission only which scares a lot of people. But you shouldn’t let it. Most companies will give you 60 to 90 days in which they will pay you either a draw on your commissions or just pay you a base for those first months.

Flexibility is one of best perks you have in Sales. Especially if you work in outside sales where you are out of the office most of the day. In most cases your boss will want you in the office first thing in the morning and then once you get organized you will be most likely on your own for the day. And then finish up back in the office at the end of the day. But depending on what type of job you have, most of the time you will have plenty of time to run errands or take some coffee breaks during the day. Your friends that have office jobs will be so jealous. The downfall to having flexibility is that you can start to fall into the trap of not getting everything done that you need to get done for work. So you need to be focused and disciplined enough to make sure you are staying on top of your work. Because depending on what type of manager you have, they will make you accountable for your tasks that were asked of you.

Growing Your Professional Skills

One of best things about a sales career is how it will help you in the future in many areas. Most companies will work continuously on developing your skills. And why is that important? It is important because sometimes jobs don’t work out for a variety of reasons.

And if that happens to you, all of the training and skill development will help you not only find another job but also will allow you to be able to hit the ground running in your new role. Most companies are looking for someone with sales experience when they have a position open. And you have that experience on your resume you will be ahead of the game. Also, sales will challenge you on a personal level as well. If you become successful in sales, you will find out that many of those same things that have helped you in your career can help you in your personal life. Whether be in relationships, or making contacts, or just helping you become a more organized person and a more dependable person.

Networking

Networking will help you for the rest of your life. When you are in sales you are constantly meeting new people and new clients. Over time you will compile a nice list of people that you may be able to call on if you need something. Maybe you are starting a new job and they may be in the market for your services. Or maybe you are looking to make a change from your current job and you may know someone that can help. Networking is something that a lot of people take for granted but they shouldn’t. You should always be keeping a list of people you meet and adding to it over the years. You never know when you may need to reach out to them

Sales Can Be A Great Career. Sales does have its positives and negatives. But if you are they type of person that can thrive on challenging yourself and doesn’t mind a job this is a little more stressful than your typical 9-5 then a sales career can be just what you are looking for!