Sales Professional Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of commerce, the need for sales professionals is at an all-time high.

As the market landscape evolves, so does the demand for skilled individuals who can strategize, engage, and secure profitable business relationships.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a sales professional?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of sales,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable sales professional job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Sales Professional Duties and Responsibilities

Sales Professionals are often the primary point of contact between a company and its clients.

They use their knowledge of the company’s products or services to connect with potential customers and maintain relationships with existing clients.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Identify and establish new business opportunities
• Prepare and deliver presentations to clients
• Understand and meet client needs and requirements
• Negotiate contracts and close deals
• Maintain and grow relationships with existing clients
• Monitor market trends and competitor activity
• Work towards meeting or exceeding sales targets
• Prepare regular reports and forecasts for management
• Participate in sales team meetings and provide input for the development of sales strategies
• Attend conferences, trade shows, industry events to network and increase product knowledge
• Provide feedback to the product development team based on customer requirements

 

Sales Professional Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a driven, self-motivated Sales Professional to join our growing organization.

In this position, you will be responsible for pursuing sales opportunities through traditional channels and by utilizing new technology and communication software to reach new prospects.

Sales Professional responsibilities include understanding customer needs, offering suitable products or services, closing sales deals and maintaining customer relations.

Our ideal candidate has a customer-first mindset and aims to deliver high-quality service while increasing the business’s profitability.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify potential clients and the decision makers within the client organization
• Cold call as appropriate within your market or geographic area to ensure a robust pipeline of opportunities
• Meet potential clients by growing, maintaining, and leveraging your network
• Research and build relationships with new clients
• Plan persuasive approaches and pitches that will convince potential clients to do business with the company
• Handle objections by clarifying, emphasizing agreements and working through differences to a positive conclusion
• Present an image that mirrors that of the client
• Present new products and services and enhance existing relationships
• Submit weekly progress reports and ensure data is accurate

 

Qualifications

• Proven sales experience, consistently meeting or exceeding targets
• Demonstrated ability to communicate, present and influence credibly and effectively at all levels of the organization
• Proven ability to drive the sales process from plan to close
• Excellent listening, negotiation and presentation skills
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills
• BA/BS degree or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Sales Professional
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Sales Manager or Director of Sales.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum (including bonuses and 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 a Sales Professional Do?

Sales Professionals work in a variety of industries, selling goods or services to businesses, government agencies, organizations, or consumers.

They are responsible for identifying potential customers, understanding their needs, and introducing them to the products or services their company offers.

Sales Professionals are skilled at creating and presenting compelling sales pitches to convince potential clients to make a purchase.

They use their expertise to overcome objections and negotiate prices or contracts.

In addition to prospecting and selling, Sales Professionals are also responsible for maintaining relationships with existing clients, ensuring their ongoing satisfaction and securing repeat business.

They keep track of their sales targets and strive to meet or exceed these goals.

They also often work closely with marketing and customer service teams to ensure a unified approach to company goals.

Sales Professionals are also responsible for keeping up to date with industry trends and competitor offerings in order to stay competitive in the market.

They may also attend networking events, trade shows, and conferences to build relationships and discover new sales opportunities.

 

Sales Professional Qualifications and Skills

Sales Professionals require a mix of interpersonal skills, product knowledge and sales strategies to effectively sell products or services, including:

• Exceptional communication skills to clearly articulate product features, benefits and pricing to potential customers.
• Interpersonal skills to build rapport and trust with customers, fostering long-term business relationships.
• Product knowledge to become a trusted advisor to customers, helping them make informed purchasing decisions.
• Negotiation skills to close deals with potential customers and meet or exceed sales targets.
• Persistence and resilience in order to handle potential rejections and still continue with a positive attitude.
• Time management skills to efficiently handle multiple customer accounts and prioritize tasks based on business needs.
• Problem-solving skills to effectively address customer inquiries, complaints, and any issues that may arise during the sales process.
• Basic understanding of CRM software to manage customer interactions and sales process.

 

Sales Professional Experience Requirements

Sales professionals usually start with an entry-level position, such as a Sales Representative or Sales Associate.

In these roles, they typically gain the fundamental skills of selling, customer service, and product knowledge.

This experience usually spans 1 to 2 years.

Internships or part-time roles in sales, marketing, or related fields can also provide valuable experience for entry-level candidates.

This experience helps them understand the basics of sales strategies, buyer behavior, and negotiation techniques.

Sales professionals with 3 to 5 years of experience often have more advanced skills, including strategic planning, account management, and team leadership.

They often hold roles such as Account Manager or Sales Specialist, where they handle more complex sales tasks.

Those with more than 5 years of experience generally have extensive industry knowledge and a proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.

These seasoned sales professionals may be ready for higher-level positions such as Sales Manager or Director of Sales, where they manage a team of sales staff and develop sales strategies for a company.

 

Sales Professional Education and Training Requirements

Sales professionals typically have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing, or a related field.

Having knowledge in economics, business law, management, and marketing is crucial.

They need to be proficient in soft skills such as communication, persuasion, negotiation, and customer service.

Experience in sales or customer service could also be beneficial.

In terms of training, there are specific sales training programs and certifications available, such as Certified Professional Sales Person (CPSP), Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP), or Certified Sales Executive (CSE), which can enhance sales skills and knowledge.

Some positions, especially those in specialized industries like pharmaceuticals or technology, may require sales professionals to have further specific knowledge or certification.

Continuous learning and keeping up to date with the latest sales techniques and market trends are also important for career advancement in sales.

 

Sales Professional Salary Expectations

A Sales Professional earns an average salary of $52,639 (USD) per year.

However, the total compensation can significantly increase with commission and bonuses, often bringing the average total pay to around $75,000 (USD) annually.

The earnings may vary based on the experience, industry, and geographical location.

 

Sales Professional Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Sales Professional need?

Sales Professionals need excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as they interact with clients on a daily basis.

They should be proficient in negotiation and persuasion, to convince potential customers to purchase their company’s products or services.

In addition, they should have good problem-solving skills to handle any customer issues or complaints.

Proficiency in using sales software tools and understanding of their industry are also key skills for Sales Professionals.

 

Do Sales Professionals need a degree?

While a degree is not mandatory, many companies prefer Sales Professionals with a bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, communications, or related fields.

However, skills and experience in sales are often considered more crucial than formal education.

Furthermore, some roles may require knowledge in specific areas, which could necessitate a degree in a particular field.

 

What should you look for in a Sales Professional resume?

Apart from the educational qualifications, look for candidates with a proven track record of achieving sales targets and experience in customer service.

It’s also beneficial if the candidate has experience in your specific industry.

Look for soft skills like communication, negotiation, and problem-solving.

Knowledge of sales software tools and technologies is a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Sales Professional?

A good Sales Professional is driven and motivated, always seeking ways to achieve and exceed sales targets.

They have exceptional communication and negotiation skills, which they use to build strong relationships with customers.

They are also problem solvers, able to address customer complaints and concerns effectively.

A strong understanding of their company’s products or services and the needs of their customers is also a must.

 

Is it difficult to hire Sales Professionals?

Finding skilled Sales Professionals can sometimes be challenging, especially in competitive industries.

However, with a thorough job description, attractive compensation packages, and a well-planned recruitment strategy, you can attract top talent.

Remember, while qualifications are important, attitude and the drive to sell can often compensate for lack of experience or education.

 

Conclusion

And that’s the lowdown.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a sales professional.

Surprised?

It’s not just about selling products or services.

It’s about shaping the commercial landscape, one sale at a time.

With our handy sales professional job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to get into action.

But why put a limit there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your subsequent step towards creating precision-crafted listings or refining your resume to the highest standard.

Remember:

Every sale is a step towards a bigger goal.

Let’s shape the commercial landscape. Together.

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