How to become an Outside Sales Representative
To work as an outside sales representative, the following are required of you:
- A high school diploma is the basic education required for an entry-level position as an outside sales representative, especially if you're required to sell nontechnical products.
- Companies selling other sensitive or industry-specific products may require a bachelor's degree in a specific course of study.
- You're required to learn many sales techniques on the job.
- After you've worked with experienced managers for an allotted time, you'll work independently.
- You must be committed to excellent customer service.
- You must have good communication and interpersonal skills.
- You should become a certified sales professional.
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Typical qualifications for an Outside Sales Representative
Skills employers are looking for
About Sales
Skill or experience with sales.
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About Negotiation
Skill or experience with negotiation, typically in a business, financial, or legal context.
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About Customer service
Skill or experience assisting customers before, during, and after purchases to satisfy customer needs.
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About Analysis skills
Skill at using mental reasoning or research to gain insight into or solve problems.
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Outside Sales Representative jobs in United States
Career progression for Outside Sales Representative
Education levels for Outside Sales Representatives
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 3.0% |
| Bachelor's degree | 2.0% |
| Associate's degree | 1.0% |
| Master's degree | 0.0% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $42,800 |
| 4 - 8 | $48,100 |
| 8 - 12 | $54,700 |
| 12 - 16 | $56,600 |
| 16 - 20 | $58,300 |
| 20 - 24 | $62,200 |
Common questions about career advices for an Outside Sales Representative
What are the best sales certifications for outside sales representatives?
The best sales certifications for outside sales representatives are:
- Certified Inside Sales Professional
- Certified Professional Sales Person
- SPIN Selling
- Challenger Development Program
- Certified Sales Leadership Professional
- HubSpot Inbound Sales
- RISE Up Sales Certifications
- Consultative Sales Certification
How do I become a better outside sales representative?
To become a better outside sales representative:
- Set sales goals and work hard to meet or exceed them.
- Understand sales are a process to be followed.
- Measure every step you take while at work.
- Identify the right people and sell to them.
- Embrace the idea of selling as a team.
Is an outside sales representative job a good career?
An outside sales representative career is a very rewarding one. Very good sales representatives are seldom out of work. Companies that sell products always require the services of successful sales representatives to sell more of their products.
