• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

I'm thinking about getting into a sales career... I need some advice please...

G

geckojohn

Diamond Member
Currently I'm working at an engineering company, but I'm thinking about getting into cell phone and telecom sales on a business to business level... no retail. I've done minor sales in the past... I worked at a jewelry store for a few years and sold rings and stuff. Is it hard to get into sales as a full-time career? I'm interested in doing outside sales. The pay is low salary plus commission. They say that the potential to make good money is really good.

Please post your thoughts on getting into sales and what you think of the sales in general. Thanks in advance 🙂.
 
I've been trying to get into sales.....

but here is the difficulties that I've encountered. I have a technical background, and worked more on the production/manufacturing side of the business. Transitioning to outside sales you have break down a few barriers. I'm assuming you also have a technical background.

First of all, you need to prove to whoever that you aren't the typical engineer/technical type, and that you have social skills. Next, if you can apply for the position within the company that it would be easier, otherwise getting your foot in the door is quite difficult. People in the industry do distinguish between the types of sales field...ie retail, outside, inside, telemarketing....

Sales is critical to the success of a company. A good product is easier to sell, however, a good sales team can push a mediocre product past a good product. So having skills in sales is an investment because you can transfer it to a broad range of industries and even to other positions.

The perks of the position are there, but the stress and commitment is high. You might end up spending long hours and lots of time traveling for your career. Furthermore, sometimes the actual income/comission maybe sporadic depending on the closure of the sale and time of delivery.

anyways just my view
 
Thanks for the nice advice... Well, I'm pretty sure that I can work for the company that I'm applying for. I think that this would be a great start for a sales career. I've noticed that a lot of companies require at least 2 years outside sales experience before you even apply.
 
yea, financial rewards are based on motivation and skill. unlike other careers, what you put into it is what you get out. You're not limited by yearly reviews for "salary increases" and in sales you actually are more noticed by people in the company, which helps when it comes time for advancement.
 
I'm really considering this job, but the base salary is sort of low. But the commission is decent. Do you think it's worth switching jobs, just to get the sales experience and to see if it's really what I want? Thanks
 
One of my friend's girlfriend works for Transcend in sales. Its a lot of pressure just to met goals. You have to be on top of your customers, etc. She told me its challenging but the better you do the more pressure you will get.


 
Given the opportunity, i would switch jobs for the experience. Sure the salary is lower, but the commission should make up for it. Just remember that not everyone is cut out for a sales career, only about 20% of the ppl in sales are actually good, the rest just survive. Its way more exciting, stressful, and well rewarding. The hardest thing I believe is trying to keep your ethics in line, and knowing when to tell people that you don't know instead of trying to make them think you know.
 
If you can handle the stress of a sales career (some thrive in that environment), go for it. The money is usually better, and most upper management came from sales.

I did sales for a while (telemarketing, auto, advertising, etc..) and hated every minute of it, even while I was good at it. The money was great, but I was smoking 2 packs a day and constantly stressed out. Switched gears and work help desk (nice mix of sales and tech without the worst parts of the stres) and am much happier.

I work at Ameriquest Mortgage now, and was just talking to a 19yo girl. She made $9k last month: $2k base and $7k commission. She's going to night school to get her degree!
 
Originally posted by: DurocShark
If you can handle the stress of a sales career (some thrive in that environment), go for it. The money is usually better, and most upper management came from sales. I did sales for a while (telemarketing, auto, advertising, etc..) and hated every minute of it, even while I was good at it. The money was great, but I was smoking 2 packs a day and constantly stressed out. Switched gears and work help desk (nice mix of sales and tech without the worst parts of the stres) and am much happier. I work at Ameriquest Mortgage now, and was just talking to a 19yo girl. She made $9k last month: $2k base and $7k commission. She's going to night school to get her degree!
Click to expand...

Wow, that girl is making awesome money. Did she have any prior sales experience? Wow, that's awesome!
 
Get some sales training before you start selling. A lot of companies dump you into the field cold and expect you to learn the ropes. That said, if you can get comfortable selling it's a great career.

I'm one of the owners of our business and what I do (besides a little bit of everything) is sell. No sales - no company, it's as simple as that. Took me a long time to figure out my style, but now I really like it.
 
Hell no, I don't think it's hard to get in at all.

If you like to chat, and like what you're selling, give it a try. It works great for a lot of people out there.
 
I hated doing sales. The best sales people are always "on" no matter if it's work hours or not.

If you can lie with a straight face you'll probably be good it.

Whenever business is down, the sales folks are the first to be blamed.

 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top