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What does a Sales Executive do?

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

Published 3 min read

A sales executive is responsible for the sale of products or services to customers. They work with clients to identify their needs and then match those needs with the products or services that the company offers. Sales executives also develop and maintain relationships with clients, provide customer service, and negotiate contracts.

Sales Executive job duties include:

  • Meeting or exceeding sales targets
  • Developing and maintaining strong relationships with customers
  • Negotiating contracts and closing deals
  • Identifying new business opportunities
  • Researching the market and identifying potential target customers
  • Planning and overseeing new marketing initiatives
  • Attending industry events and conferences
  • Generating leads and following up on potential sales opportunities
  • Creating detailed business plans to facilitate the attainment of goals

Sales Executive Job Requirements

A Sales Executive is responsible for leading and managing a sales team in order to achieve assigned quotas. They typically report to a Vice President of Sales or another high-level executive. A Sales Executive typically has a Bachelor's degree in business, sales, or a related field, and they often have experience working in sales and management. Some companies may require certification in sales or management.

Sales Executive Skills

  • Communication
  • Persuasion
  • Confidence
  • Organization
  • Time Management
  • Research
  • Product Knowledge
  • Customer Service
  • Closing Skills
  • Motivation
  • Negotiation

Related: Top Sales Executive Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Sales Executive

Sales executives are the key link between an organisation and its customers. They are responsible for finding new customers and developing relationships with existing ones.

To become a sales executive, you will need to have strong communication and negotiation skills. You will also need to be able to work well under pressure and meet targets.

If you have a background in sales, customer service or marketing, this will be helpful. However, it is not essential. Many organisations offer training programmes for sales executives.

The best way to learn about the role of a sales executive is to shadow someone who is already in the job. This will give you an insight into the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities involved.

If you are interested in becoming a sales executive, contact your local Chamber of Commerce or Business Development Board. They may be able to put you in touch with someone who can help you get started in this career.

Related: Sales Executive Resume Example

Related: Sales Executive 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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