- Don't be jealous!..- I drive to an area of WA, ID or AK, spend time in running stores helping staff with customers, teaching them about products over coffee and bagels, and often run with their store group runs, then hand out prizes. Then on my way home I explore a new trail in the mountains that I haven't been to yet.
CAREER
Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products
Overview
Salary Median (2020)
$62,070
Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)
+0.9% (little or no change)
Most Common Level of Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Career
Roadtrip Nation Leaders in This Career
What Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products Do
Sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses or groups of individuals. Work requires substantial knowledge of items sold.
Other Job Titles Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products May Have
Account Representative, Customer Account Technician, Inside Salesperson, Outside Sales Representative, Route Sales Representative, Sales Consultant, Sales Professional, Sales Representative (Sales Rep), Salesman, Salesperson
How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work
I spend most days on the phone with educators talking about the benefits of Roadtrip Nation. I tour them through our material and answer any questions they have. I do a lot of research about current trends in the education sector so that I can anticipate any needs or concerns they may have. My favorite part of working in this field is that I get to talk to so many different people every day and form connections based on the success of all students. On some days I travel a lot!
Tasks & Responsibilities May Include
- Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, product uses, and credit terms.
- Recommend products to customers, based on customers' needs and interests.
- Estimate or quote prices, credit or contract terms, warranties, and delivery dates.
- Consult with clients after sales or contract signings to resolve problems and to provide ongoing support.
- Prepare sales contracts and order forms.
Education
Level of Education Attained by Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products
Most common level of education among people in
this career: Bachelor's degree (40%)
High school diploma or equivalent
Some college, no degree
Bachelor's degree
Other*
*All other responses combined for clarity.
Majors Related to Career
Educational Paths Suggested by Leaders
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Business/Commerce, General
Suggested Path
High School
Bachelor
Business/Commerce, General
Bachelor
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
Additional Skills & Experiences That Can Help You Excel
This role is entry level, so things like Marketing, Event Planning, and Communications can all translate well into the job. Again, retail experience is key, and easy to get experience in. For a specialty position like mine, passion for the sport is huge!
It would be helpful to have some (in)formal training in public speaking, time management, ability to navigate the internet quickly and efficiently, and the ability to understand the needs and motivations of others.
Getting Started
Recommended First Step for:
High School Students
Involve yourself with people who are nothing like you. This kind of early exposure increases your adaptability later on. Being involved also helps you to start managing a busy schedule, prioritizing what must get done vs. what can be done later/tomorrow.
Education
College Students
This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
