Getting a Sales Job

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by Amin Huffington

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In this economy, some of you reading this post may be considering a sales job for the first time in your careers. If that is the case, read on and learn the new trade!

Think of your sales-job search as a sales campaign, with the companies who will pay for your services as potential buyers. Your best chances for success will require you to test your sales skills: Research opportunities, network, and sell your services as a future sales worker.

Research. Many sales jobs, especially in business-to-business sales, are with companies that most people don’t think about or encounter on a regular basis. You can learn about some of these lesser known companies by looking through industry or business-to-business directories, available in many public libraries. Local yellow pages can also help you identify companies that might need sales representatives. And rankings, such as the best companies to sell for, work for, or launch a career with, might give you additional ideas for leads.

Check out company websites, help-wanted advertisements, and online job boards to learn about specific openings. Some sites specialize in sales careers or in a particular industry sector. But often, the most successful approach to getting a job is to tap a network of personal contacts.

Network. As a future sales worker, you could have a distinct advantage in the job hunt: Networking, a skill you will use in your job, is also essential for landing a position.

Networking happens in many ways, whether through in-person contact, social media, professional associations, or other means. Talk to people you know who already work in sales and ask them for advice on starting a sales career. Set up informational interviews with people who work in an occupation or industry that interests you to ask them about the work, job requirements, and other aspects of a sales career.
Online discussion boards also offer a chance to interact with sales professionals and others interested in the field. And job or career fairs are a good place to connect with prospective employers.

Sell. Every time you communicate with someone in the business world, you have an opportunity to showcase the communication skills that will help make you a good sales worker. Use your resume, cover letter, interview, and thank-you letter to show prospective employers that you can sell a product or service—which, in this case, is you.

Study sales techniques and common interview questions for sales jobs. For example, some employers might assess your sales ability by saying during the interview, “Sell me this pen.” Go into an interview prepared with extensive information about the company, its products and services, the names of key decision makers, and recent industry trends. Hone your presentation skills and prove your sales acumen to future employers, and you might buy into a rewarding career.

Good luck!

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