Sales Representative Career Description
Sales representatives introduce their organisation 's products or services to prospective clients in such a way as to evoke positive interest, leading to the placement 'of orders for products or the utilization of services.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Sales representatives as their firm's ambassador to the public, have to explain the company's s sales policies, attitudes and aims in a way that will bring credit to the firm. They are also liaison officers between the firm and client, the latter being anyone from a housewife to a pharmacist. Representatives introduce wares or services by means of brochures and samples, answer relevant questions about products or services and take down orders.
It is also the responsibility of sales representatives to give advice, to advertise campaigns, to set accounts and credit and to work out possible problems with sales. Sales representatives are also continuously recruiting new clients. Sales representatives that are successful normally move into positions of sales managers, branch manager or even directors of companies.
Due to the geographical distributions of clients, representatives are normally expected to travel considerable distances, in order to cover the area for which they are responsible. Firms either supply representatives with a company vehicle or subsidise the transport costs. Sales representatives subsequently spend very little time in the office and work irregular hours.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
Sales representatives must have a neat appearance and the ability to interact easily with others on a social level. They must be able to communicate fluently and be able to catch and hold the attention and interest of their clients. Sales representatives must have an enthusiastic personality and be able to maintain a high working standard.
Representatives must be understanding and pleasant when dealing with clients. Tact and diplomacy are essential characteristics that will facilitate their work. Since work of this
nature may be very exhausting and often frustrating, perseverance and tenacity are required to cope successfully.
Where can I work?
Sales representatives can work at any company or firm that develops or sells products or services.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Because sales representatives usually work on a commission basis they can not work for themselves.
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