What does an Outside Sales Rep do?
Published 3 min read
An outside sales representative is a person who sells products or services to customers on behalf of a company. They are also responsible for finding new customers and building relationships with existing ones. Outside sales representatives typically work in an office, but they may also travel to meet with clients.
Outside Sales Rep job duties include:
- Meeting or exceeding sales targets
- Developing new business
- Managing and developing relationships with existing clients
- Negotiating contracts
- Generating leads
- Following up on leads
- Attending networking events
- Giving presentations
- Writing proposals
Outside Sales Rep Job Requirements
Most outside sales representatives have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree. Certification is not typically required, but completing a professional development program or taking courses related to sales can be beneficial. Outside sales representatives typically have several years of experience in sales, customer service, or another related field. Strong communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills are essential for success in this role.
Outside Sales Rep Skills
- Communication
- Persuasion
- Cold-calling
- Prospecting
- Closing
- Time management
- Organization
- Prioritization
- Multi-tasking
- Negotiation
- Solution selling
Related: Top Outside Sales Rep Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an Outside Sales Rep
The first step to becoming an outside sales rep is finding a company that you’re interested in working for. Once you’ve found a company, the next step is to submit your resume and cover letter. If you’re selected for an interview, be prepared to discuss your experience and why you’re interested in the position.
After the interview, the next step is to complete any necessary training. Once you’ve completed training, you’ll be able to start working as an outside sales rep. In this role, you’ll be responsible for meeting with potential customers, presenting products or services, and closing sales.
To be successful in this role, it’s important to have strong communication and interpersonal skills. You should also be comfortable working independently and be self-motivated to achieve sales goals. If you have these qualities and are interested in working in sales, then becoming an outside sales rep may be the right career choice for you.
Related: Outside Sales Rep Resume Example
Related: Outside Sales Rep Interview Questions (With Example Answers)