The days of following in your parents’ footsteps for life are long gone. Today’s dynamic job market encourages frequent career shifts, with statistics suggesting up to 30% of workers changing jobs annually. Sales, a core function across industries, often plays a role in these transitions. This makes it a valuable skillset, regardless of your ultimate career path. Today I will discuss how to get a job in sales and tips to make it easier.
So, whether you’re a fresh grad seeking your first sales role or a seasoned professional looking to expand your horizons, these five tips will equip you to stand out from the crowd.
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5 Tips on how to get a job in sales
The dynamic world of sales offers exciting career opportunities for individuals with ambition and a drive to succeed. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional seeking a career shift, this competitive field rewards hard work and strategic preparation.
To stand out from the crowd and land your dream sales role, here are 5 key tips to equip you for the interview process and propel you towards a thriving sales career.
Why Entry-Level sales can be your launching pad?
New to sales, or transitioning from another field? Don’t be discouraged by entry-level positions. Sales trainer Marie Warner emphasizes that regardless of your background, starting at the ground floor is a smart move.
“Most entry-level sales roles offer valuable training,” explains Greta Schulz, CEO of Schulz Business SELLutions. “Sales managers see these positions as a chance to build the ideal salesperson for their team.”
By showcasing your eagerness to learn and demonstrating a quick grasp of concepts, you’ll impress potential employers and position yourself for rapid growth within the sales department.
Before you start attending interview for sales
Before diving into interviews, equip yourself with a solid sales foundation. Move beyond the generic “people person” label and develop a personal sales philosophy.
For sales newbies, Jill Konrath, author of “More Sales, Less Time,” suggests exploring Mike Weinberg’s “New Sales. Simplified.” This handbook equips you with prospecting and new business development essentials.
Further your learning by delving into TED Talks. Ernesto Sirolli’s “Want to Help Someone? Shut Up and Listen!” emphasizes the power of active listening in sales, while Angela Lee Duckworth’s “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance” explores the crucial role of resilience in a competitive field.
Related: how to reduce time to hire?
Unlock opportunities with your “Network”
Don’t underestimate the power of your network! Industry conferences, professional associations, and social media connections can be goldmines for sales job seekers.
Target events and groups relevant to your desired sales field. Connect with sales managers on LinkedIn or Twitter, fostering relationships before actively applying for positions. By building a strong network, you’ll increase your visibility and gain access to insider opportunities.
Sell yourself first: Highlighting transferable skills
Before selling a product, you need to sell yourself. Sales managers know this, so showcase transferable skills that demonstrate your sales potential.
Remember, sales is about convincing someone of something’s value. Don’t be discouraged by a lack of direct sales experience. Think back to situations where you used persuasion to get someone on board. Perhaps you led a team project, solved a complex customer service issue, or delivered a persuasive presentation. These experiences highlight your communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills – all crucial assets in sales. Prepare specific anecdotes to showcase these skills during your interview.
If you want to pioneer the art of selling you should read Joe Girard’s – How to sell yourself.
Become the “Informed Candidate”: Research and show initiative
Great salespeople understand customer needs and offer solutions. The interview is your chance to showcase this skill!
Start strong by mentioning your research efforts. For example, you could say, “In preparing for this interview, I…” followed by specific actions you took:
- “Reviewed your company’s recent press releases and annual reports to gain a deeper understanding of your strategic goals.”
- “Reached out to a current sales representative on LinkedIn to learn more about the company culture and daily responsibilities.”
- “Analyzed industry trends and competitor offerings to identify unique selling propositions for your products.”
Asking insightful questions is key. Leverage your research to craft questions like:
- “Given your impressive growth trajectory over the past five years, what factors do you attribute to this success?”
- “I understand you’re venturing into a new market segment soon. What strategies are in place to ensure a smooth expansion?”
Conclusion: Make a “Lasting Impression”
Remember, these sales-specific interview tips are layered upon a foundation of good general interview practices. Project confidence and professionalism through your attire, eye contact, clear communication, and active listening. By combining these fundamentals with your sales-focused preparation, you’ll convince the hiring manager you’re a perfect fit for the team, ready to contribute from day one.
