What does a Salesperson do?
Published 3 min read
A salesperson is a person who sells goods or services.
Salesperson job duties include:
- Greeting customers and ascertaining what each customer wants or needs
- Answering questions about products or services
- Giving advice about the best products or services to meet the customer’s needs
- Demonstrating and explaining products or services to customers
- Negotiating prices, terms of sale, and service contracts
- Making sales presentations to groups of potential customers
- Preparing reports of business transactions
- Keeping abreast of new products and services and changes in the market
- Participating in trade shows and conventions
Salesperson Job Requirements
Most salespeople have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as a bachelor’s degree. In addition, many employers provide on-the-job training to new salespeople. Some jobs may also require certification, such as a real estate license for those selling property. Most salespeople have at least some experience in customer service or another type of job that required regular interaction with the public.
Salesperson Skills
- Communication
- Persuasion
- Confidence
- Research
- Time Management
- Organization
- Prioritization
- Multitasking
- Negotiation
- Closing
- Prospecting
Related: Top Salesperson Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Salesperson
Salespeople are the lifeblood of any company that relies on customer purchases to generate revenue. To be a successful salesperson, you need to be able to build relationships with customers, understand their needs, and then match those needs with the products or services you are selling. In addition, you need to be able to close deals and manage a sales pipeline. If you are interested in becoming a salesperson, here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Develop your people skills: As a salesperson, you will be dealing with people all day long. You need to be able to build rapport quickly, understand what they need, and then sell them on the benefits of your product or service.
2. Learn about the product or service you’re selling: It is important that you believe in the product or service you are selling. Take the time to learn about the features and benefits so that you can effectively sell it to customers.
3. Get organized: A salesperson’s job is often fast-paced and chaotic. You need to be able to stay organized and keep track of your sales pipeline in order to be successful.
4. Be persistent: Sales is often a numbers game. The more people you talk to, the more likely you are to make a sale. Don’t give up too easily – if someone says no today, they may say yes tomorrow.
5. Be coachable: A good salesperson is always learning and growing. Be open to feedback from your managers and colleagues so that you can continue to improve your skillset.
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