I recently spoke to a candidate that has been searching for a job for two months. He works in an industry that is shedding jobs and has to make a significant change. Twice during the conversation, he said the only interviews he is offered are for sales. So, I wondered out loud, why not go on the interview? His response was simple. “I am no good at sales!”
There are many people that would say that but before I go any further, I know this candidate. He is passionate, a great communicator, highly focused, amazingly well-organized, and a natural leader. Sales would give him a new industry to learn and grow into, a new skill set and knowledge base to transfer should he ever change jobs, and a new purpose, which he sorely needs.
Why a Sales Job Might Be Your Next Best Move:
Many people have an incorrect impression about sales. They envision a high-pressure, relentless pursuit of quotas with little reward. While elements of challenge are real, as they are with any job, modern sales is more about sales process. Here are some reasons to consider a sales job, even with no experience.
- Unlimited Commission: Unlike many traditional roles, sales often comes with a base salary plus commission. This means your income is directly tied to your effort. This can translate into earnings far exceeding what’s possible in other fields.
- Transferable Skills: Sales isn’t just about selling; it’s about problem-solving and strategic thinking, with negotiation and resilience thrown in. These are highly valued skills in any industry. The abilities you hone if you take a sales job will serve you well.
- Flexibility: Many sales roles offer a degree of flexibility in how you manage your time. The path to achieving your goals can often be tailored to your working style.
- Industry Knowledge and Networking: Being in sales means interacting with a wide range of clients and industry professionals. This allows you to build a robust professional network that will come in handy in the future.
How to Prepare for a Sales Job, Even with No Experience:
So, where do you start if your resume has no sales experience?
- Frame Your Past Experience Through a Sales Lens:Think about previous roles. Did you influence colleagues, present ideas, solve customer problems, or build relationships? These are all foundational sales skills.
- Research Industries That Align with Your Interests:What are you passionate about? Seek sales roles in industries that genuinely interest you. Your enthusiasm will be a powerful asset.
- Seek Training:Many companies have fantastic training. Seek out companies that invest in Learning and Development.
- Consider “Inside Sales”:Inside sales jobs require little travel and offer structured training, making them excellent entry points.
- Network with Sales Professionals:Reach out to people on LinkedIn who are in sales roles you find interesting. Ask them about their experiences, what they like, what challenges they face, and how they got started. You never know when one of the folks you talk to will suggest an interview.
If you’re looking for a fresh start and willing to embrace a challenge, give sales a serious look. You might just discover your next great career adventure.
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