A career in sales can be rewarding, both professionally and financially. Most people in sales are drawn to the profession by the earning potential. Effective sales skills translate to many different industries, providing job security. However, working in sales is not for everyone. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of this career path to help you make an informed decision on whether it’s something you should pursue. We’ll also talk about how you can start working in sales if you decide that it’s a good career option for you.
Pros and Cons of Working in Sales
Like any career, working in sales has highs and lows. Some types of people will thrive in a sales role, while others will find the advantages aren’t worth the drawbacks. Weigh the pros and cons to determine if being in sales is right for you.
Pros: Potentially Lucrative
One of the main reasons people work in sales is the financial compensation. Many sales jobs are commission-based, which means that you keep a portion of the revenue from each sale you make. This allows the best sales professionals to earn a very good living.
Pros: Flexible
Working as a salesperson, especially in certain industries, offers more flexibility. As long as you hit your sales targets, it may not be necessary to stay in an office from 9 to 5.
Pros: You Can Improve Your Interpersonal Skills
Selling involves building rapport with potential customers. Over time, you can improve your people skills, a transferable skill you can use if you decide to switch to a new career.
Cons: It Can Be Stressful
More than in many other positions, your success and your earnings in sales are directly dependent on your personal performance, with nobody else you can depend on to help you. Sales jobs typically come with targets that you will have to hit each month or quarter. This means that sales positions can be high-stress.
Cons: It Can Be Difficult
While every job has its own challenges, even the most successful sales professionals would probably admit that working in sales is not a breeze. You must be highly persistent and prepared to deal with a lot of rejection.
How To Get a Sales Job
While excelling in sales requires experience, pursuing formal education such as a business degree with a focus on sales and customer service can give you the best possible chance for success when starting your career.
The business administration associate’s degree program with a focus on sales and customer service at IMBC will equip you with the sales skills you need in the real world. You can improve your customer service skills, another ingredient to success. At IMBC, we’ll teach you the fundamentals of sales, including proper prospecting, building rapport, handling objections, and closing the deal.
Start Your Sales Career at IMBC
For those with drive and the right temperament, a career in sales can be a personally fulfilling and financially rewarding journey. An associate degree from IMBC is a great way to start. You can get your associate degree in business administration with a focus on sales and customer service in less than two years. Contact us today to find out more.