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What does a Route Sales Representative do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A route sales representative is responsible for managing and growing a designated sales territory by selling company products to existing customers and developing new business. A typical day for a route sales representative may include meeting with current customers to discuss their needs, visiting potential new customers to introduce them to the company's products, and preparing reports on sales activity.

Route Sales Representative job duties include:

  • Maintaining relationships with current accounts and developing new ones
  • Planning and executing sales strategies
  • Meeting sales targets
  • Managing a sales territory
  • Generating leads
  • Cold calling
  • Presenting products and services
  • Negotiating contracts
  • Providing customer service

Route Sales Representative Job Requirements

Most employers prefer to hire route sales representatives who have at least a high school diploma. Some companies may require their sales representatives to have a bachelor's degree. Many route sales representatives receive on-the-job training, which typically lasts for a few weeks. Some employers may prefer to hire candidates who have previous experience in customer service or sales.

Route Sales Representative Skills

  • Communication
  • Time management
  • Customer service
  • Organization
  • Prioritization
  • Multitasking
  • Adaptability
  • Persistence
  • Independence
  • Self-motivation
  • Selling

Related: Top Route Sales Representative Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Route Sales Representative

A route sales representative (RSR) is a traveling salesman who sells and services products to customers on a regular basis. To become an RSR, you will need to have strong people skills, as well as product knowledge and sales experience.

The first step to becoming an RSR is to find a company that you would like to work for. Many times, RSRs are hired by companies that manufacture and distribute food or other consumable products. Once you have found a company that you are interested in, the next step is to submit your resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, be sure to highlight any previous sales experience that you may have.

If you are selected for an interview, be prepared to discuss your motivation for wanting to become an RSR, as well as your goals for the position. During the interview, it is also important to ask questions about the company and the products that you will be selling. This will show that you are truly interested in the position and that you have done your research.

Once you have been hired as an RSR, it is important to build strong relationships with your customers. In order to do this, you must be friendly and personable, as well as knowledgeable about the products that you are selling. You should also always be looking for ways to increase sales within your territory. By following these tips, you can become a successful route sales representative.

Related: Route Sales Representative Resume Example

Related: Route Sales Representative Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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