Industrial Product Salesperson Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the realm of manufacturing and commerce, the demand for industrial product salespersons is ever-increasing.

As industry technologies evolve and expand, the need for skilled professionals who can navigate, promote, and safeguard our industrial product lines grows exponentially.

But what exactly is expected from an industrial product salesperson?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the dynamics of industrial product sales,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we are providing a customizable industrial product salesperson job description template, tailor-made for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Industrial Product Salesperson Duties and Responsibilities

Industrial Product Salespersons play a key role in selling goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations.

They are experts on the products they sell and spend much of their time working with customers—answering their questions, understanding their needs and suggesting the best products to meet those needs.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Identify potential customers by researching and analyzing sales options
• Establish contact and build relationships with prospective customers
• Promote and sell products by establishing contact and developing relationships with prospects, and recommending solutions
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies
• Prepare reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing information
• Maintain quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards
• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed
• Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, reading professional publications, maintaining personal networks, and participating in professional organizations
• Provide technical and operational knowledge of the product to the customer
• Negotiate contracts with clients and establish a timeline of performance

 

Industrial Product Salesperson Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated and ambitious Industrial Product Salesperson to join our team.

In this role, your duties will include analyzing market trends, identifying prospective clients, delivering sales presentations, and negotiating contracts.

The successful candidate will have excellent communication skills, a strong understanding of industrial products, and the ability to build and maintain long-term relationships with clients.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify potential clients through market research and networking efforts
• Conduct sales presentations to prospective clients
• Negotiate contracts and close deals
• Maintain a thorough understanding of the company’s products and services
• Develop and maintain long-term relationships with clients
• Stay informed about market trends and competitor offerings
• Meet or exceed sales targets
• Provide excellent customer service to maintain client satisfaction
• Regularly provide sales reports to management

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an industrial product salesperson or similar role
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and sales skills
• Strong knowledge of industrial products
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with clients
• Good understanding of market research techniques
• Proficiency in MS Office and CRM software
• BSc/BA in Business, Marketing or a related field

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Company car and travel expenses
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Industrial Product Salesperson
• Work Environment: This role often involves travel to meet with clients or attend trade shows and industry events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Sales Manager or Director of Sales.
• Salary: Salary is negotiable and based on experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum plus commissions
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Industrial Product Salesperson Do?

Industrial Product Salespersons often work for manufacturing or wholesale trade industries.

They may also serve as independent representatives for a variety of businesses.

Their primary role involves selling goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses, government agencies, and other organizations.

These goods are typically used in industrial settings, like manufacturing plants or construction sites, rather than being sold to the general public.

Industrial Product Salespersons must be well-versed in the technical aspects of their products as they often answer questions or provide advice about the products they are selling, including discussing a product’s ability to meet specific requirements.

Their job often involves a lot of travel, visiting current and potential clients to showcase their products, as well as attending trade shows and conventions.

They may also deliver formal presentations to persuade potential clients to purchase their products.

Further duties may include negotiating prices or terms of sales or service agreements, preparing and submitting sales contracts, and following up with clients to ensure their satisfaction with the products.

They are also responsible for identifying prospective customers by using business directories, following leads from existing clients, participating in organizations and clubs, and attending trade shows and conferences.

In some cases, they may also be required to meet sales quotas.

 

Industrial Product Salesperson Qualifications and Skills

Industrial Product Salespersons utilize a combination of technical knowledge, interpersonal skills, and industry-specific understanding to successfully promote and sell products, such as:

• Excellent communication skills to clearly explain complex industrial product features to clients and answer any questions that may arise.
• Technical knowledge of industrial products to effectively introduce new products to potential customers and make persuasive sales pitches.
• Strong customer service skills to build and maintain relationships with customers, ensuring their needs and queries are effectively addressed.
• Interpersonal skills to interact and negotiate with customers and effectively work with team members.
• Ability to use sales forecasting tools and sales strategies to meet and exceed sales targets.
• Commercial awareness and understanding of the market and competitors to position products effectively.
• Problem-solving skills to address customer issues and find suitable solutions.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple accounts, schedule appointments and follow up with prospective clients in a timely manner.

 

Industrial Product Salesperson Experience Requirements

Industrial product salespersons generally need a few years of sales or related experience.

Many employers often prefer candidates with at least 2 to 3 years of sales experience, particularly in the industrial product industry.

This experience allows them to have a good understanding of the products they will be selling and the nature of their potential clients.

Some salespersons may gain experience from entry-level sales positions, where they learn the basics of the sales process, customer service, and product knowledge.

They may also gain valuable experience through internships or part-time roles in sales or related fields.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have a proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales quotas and have extensive knowledge of industrial products.

They may also have established relationships with key clients and distributors in the industry.

Those with more than 7 years of experience typically possess a deep understanding of the industry’s trends and market dynamics.

They might have experience managing a team of junior sales representatives or have led significant sales projects.

At this level, they could be ready for a sales management or directorial position.

Being certified in sales or having technical knowledge relevant to the products being sold can be advantageous and often seen as a substitute for years of experience.

 

Industrial Product Salesperson Education and Training Requirements

An Industrial Product Salesperson typically requires a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, economics or a related field.

They must have a strong understanding of the products they sell, which often requires some technical knowledge.

Therefore, a background in engineering or a related technical field can be advantageous.

Salespersons must also have excellent communication and negotiation skills to interact with clients effectively and make persuasive sales pitches.

Thus, taking courses in communication, public speaking, and sales techniques can be beneficial.

Some companies might require salespersons to undergo specific product training to gain in-depth knowledge about the product line.

Those aiming for higher-level sales positions or specialized sales roles may find it helpful to obtain a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field.

Professional certifications, such as Certified Sales Professional (CSP) offered by the Manufacturers’ Representatives Educational Research Foundation (MRERF), can further enhance a salesperson’s skills and employability.

Overall, besides formal education, continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends, product knowledge, and sales techniques are crucial for a successful career in industrial product sales.

 

Industrial Product Salesperson Salary Expectations

An Industrial Product Salesperson earns an average salary of $59,930 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can significantly differ based on factors such as experience, industry, geographical location, and the size and reputation of the employing company.

 

Industrial Product Salesperson Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Industrial Product Salesperson need?

An Industrial Product Salesperson should possess exceptional communication and negotiation skills to deal with clients effectively.

They should have a solid understanding of industrial products and their market.

Technical knowledge about the products they are selling is crucial.

Besides, they should have good organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and should be able to work under pressure.

 

Do Industrial Product Salespeople need a degree?

While it isn’t mandatory for Industrial Product Salespeople to hold a degree, having one, especially in business, marketing, or a related field, can be beneficial.

However, extensive industry knowledge and hands-on experience in sales are often more important.

Training programs and certifications in sales, marketing, or related fields can also boost their credibility.

 

What should you look for in an Industrial Product Salesperson resume?

In an Industrial Product Salesperson resume, look for previous experience in sales, preferably in the industrial sector.

Any specific product knowledge or experience in the industry is a plus.

Check for proven track records in meeting or exceeding sales goals.

Skills like customer service, negotiation, communication, and technical knowledge should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Industrial Product Salesperson?

A good Industrial Product Salesperson is highly motivated, goal-oriented and has a knack for understanding client needs.

They should have excellent interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with clients.

They should also be able to effectively demonstrate and explain product features to potential buyers.

Being able to anticipate market trends and staying informed about competing products are also marks of a good salesperson.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Industrial Product Salesperson?

Hiring an Industrial Product Salesperson can be challenging, as the role requires a unique combination of technical knowledge and sales skills.

It’s important to find a candidate who not only understands the product and the industry but also has the sales acumen to convert potential leads into sales.

Therefore, a thorough screening process is essential to identify the right candidate for this role.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on the true essence of being an industrial product salesperson.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not just about selling products.

It’s about driving industrial growth and innovation, one sale at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive industrial product salesperson job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to take the next step.

But don’t stop here!

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon for creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every sale is a significant stride towards industrial progress.

Let’s propel that growth. Together.

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