Learn what you should know about starting a career in sales now.
Do you enjoy working with people and thrive in a fast-paced professional environment? Then you should consider starting a career in sales.
The great thing about a sales career is the growth potential. What you put into it, you get out of it. Regardless of your experience level, we believe you can benefit from these tips.
9 Tips for Starting a Career in Sales
Let’s break it down.
1. Think Location
Location matters when it comes to starting a career in sales. Different states will have different opportunism for growth. Consider the cost of living in the area, demographics, schools, state tax laws, etc. Choosing a place to live, whether for starting a career in sales or not, is a serious consideration. Try looking at this Zippia ranking to give you some ideas on location.
2. Imagine Your Desired Sales Role
At this point, you feel like starting a career in sales is suitable for you. But you’re not sure what position is the right fit. Maybe you want to stay behind the scenes, or maybe you want to be front and center every day with clients. Being a salesperson is not a linear path. There are so many avenues for growth and ways to utilize your skill set. Picture your dream job and create it.
3. Research
You’re reading this, so we don’t have to tell you to research. (But we’re going to.) Research is a fundamental part of any career development. You have to really know what you’re getting yourself into. Compile data, bookmark helpful information (like this blog post), and ask for advice. Not only will you feel more knowledgeable about the sales field, but you’ll also feel prepared to discuss it with others.
4. List Companies
Make your list and check it twice- of companies, we mean. When you’re starting a career in sales, choosing the right company can make or break your experience. Being involved in the industry is one thing. But immersing yourself in a sales company’s culture is another thing. While in the research phase, make a running list of companies you watch, admire, or want to work with.
5. Analyze Your Dream Role
Think back to the dream sales job you imagined earlier. What does it look like? What are you doing on a daily basis? Take the time to analyze your dream role. You’ll want to make a note of the skillset it requires, whether that be soft or hard skills. Then, compare that listing to the skillset you currently have.
6. Invest in Yourself
If you are starting a career in sales with little experience, we recommend investing in yourself. That means taking a course and giving your sales skills a boost. It could be as simple as a Skillshare course or a multi-part workshop. The point is to become a better salesperson, learn something enriching, and build your professional value.
7. Seek a Recruiter
Sometimes the best way to start a sales career is through the helping hands of a recruiter. Recruiters are pros at what they do. And they can get you in front of the right people at the right time. Is there a recruiting firm nearby that can place you in the proper position? You can connect with us on our website at any time.
8. Polish Your CV
Before you start applying for jobs, polish your resume. It’s always a good idea to keep your resume updated and reflect current formatting standards. This is especially important at the beginning of your career or when you’re pivoting roles. Sprinkle both hard and soft skills into your objective summary for easy pick-up by resume scanning software. Also, be mindful of listing too many jobs on your resume in the work history section.
9. Network
Everyone is always preaching about networking- network, network, network. But in the sales industry, it is critical. How will you find leads? How will you connect with people who might have a lead? Sales is a highly people-focused field. That’s just a fact. So, when you’re starting a career In sales, connect with others. Build your network. It’s the perfect time to cast your professional net.
Sales Recruiters Chicago Works with Recruiters & Job Seekers
Are you looking for a job in the sales industry in Chicago? Our team can help you find the perfect sales position that aligns with your objective, future goals, and current skill set.
If you are trying to fill a sales-based role within your Chicago company, Sales Recruiters Chicago can also help you hire the perfect candidate. We also have a Dallas location if you live in Texas.
Learn more about us to hire talent or get hired sooner rather than later.
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