Sales representative job description

Key responsibilities

• 🤝 Engage potential clients: A Sales Representative reach out through calls, emails, and face-to-face chats to build real connections. They determine what customers need and show how their product or service fits.

• 📢 Deliver persuasive presentations: Whether it’s a quick pitch or a full-on demo, Sales Reps craft engaging presentations that highlight real solutions. It’s all about making the product click with the customer and showing them why they need it.

• 👥 Maintain customer relationships: The job doesn’t stop at closing a deal. Great Sales Representatives follow up, check in, and keep customers happy.

• 📊 Track and report sales activities: Keeping tabs on sales, tracking what’s working (and what’s not), and spotting trends helps fine-tune strategies. Smart data = better sales moves.

Qualifications and skills

• Excellent communication skills: Knows how to get the message across, adapting to different audiences and building strong client connections.

• Proven sales track record: Consistently hits targets, showing they’ve got the skills to close deals and drive revenue.

• Customer-focused mindset: They are always focused on delivering the best experience, building trust, and keeping clients coming back.

• Strong negotiation skills: Sales Representatives can handle tough conversations, find win-win solutions, and confidently close complex deals.

• Self-motivated and independent: Takes initiative, manages time like a pro, and gets things done without needing constant direction.

• Analytical thinking: Understands market trends and customer behaviour and uses data to refine strategies and stay ahead.

• Adaptable & resilient: Thrives in a fast-moving sales environment, always ready to try new approaches. Sales Representatives keep pushing forward, stay positive, and don’t let challenges slow them down.

Career path and opportunities

A career in sales isn't just about hitting targets—it's a launchpad for endless growth and opportunity. It's all about building genuine connections, understanding what customers actually need, and creating real value. If you're keen to make your mark, this role can take you places.

Most Sales Representatives level up to a Senior Sales Representative or Sales Specialist position, where they handle bigger accounts and higher stakes. With experience, moving into a Sales Manager position means leading a team, creating strategies, and driving results that matter.

If leadership and big-picture thinking excite you, the path to Sales Director or even VP of Sales lets you set company-wide goals and lead teams to smash ambitious targets. These roles need a sharp understanding of market trends and the ability to inspire others.

Sales also open doors to different paths. Some reps shift into Business Development, finding new markets and partnerships, while others jump into Marketing, using their customer insights to shape powerful campaigns.

Got an entrepreneurial mindset? Many also use their skills to launch their own businesses. Their deep understanding of customer needs helps them create products or services that truly connect.

Related job titles

• Account Executive

• Business Development Manager

• Territory Sales Manager

• Sales Consultant

• Customer Success Representative

• Inside Sales Representative

• Field Sales Agent

• Key Account Manager

• Sales Coordinator

• Retail Sales Associate

Example job description

Job title: Sales Representative

Job overview:
We're looking for a Sales Representative who thrives on building relationships and driving growth. If you’re passionate about helping customers find solutions that make a real impact, this is the perfect opportunity for you.
You’ll play a key role in identifying new opportunities, maintaining strong client connections, and collaborating with teams to achieve sales success.

Key responsibilities:

• Identify and pursue new sales opportunities through various channels

• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing clients

• Understand customer needs and recommend tailored solutions

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve processes and meet sales targets

• Stay up to date with market trends to maximise sales potential

Required qualifications:

• Proven experience in sales or a related field

• Strong communication and negotiation skills

• A proactive, customer-first approach

• Ability to work independently and drive results

Preferred qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

• Experience using CRM systems

• Background in B2B or consultative sales

Perks & benefits:

• Competitive salary with performance-based incentives

• Flexible working arrangements

• Ongoing training and career growth opportunities

• Supportive team culture with a focus on collaboration and success

Frequently asked questions

What does a Sales Representative do?

A Sales Representative is the face of a brand, connecting customers with the products or services they need. They find new clients, maintain relationships, and close deals—all while ensuring a top-notch customer experience.
Their role is all about making sales happen, driving business growth, and keeping customers happy.

What are their key duties and responsibilities?

Sales Representatives are responsible for finding new leads, engaging with existing clients, and understanding customer needs to offer the right solutions.
They negotiate contracts, close deals, and provide follow-up support to keep customers happy. Sales Representatives also track sales activities and predict future trends, helping businesses sharpen their strategies and stay ahead of competitors.

What makes a great Sales Representative?

To succeed in this role, a Sales Representative needs strong communication skills, adaptability, and resilience. They must be confident in presenting products, handling objections, and building trust with clients.
A great Sales Representative stays motivated, even when facing challenges, and can quickly adjust to different customer needs and market shifts.

Why are Sales Representatives important to a business?

Without Sales Representatives, there’s no revenue—simple as that. By driving sales and ensuring customer needs are met, they’re the link between a business and its customers.
They bring in valuable customer feedback that helps improve products and services. Beyond just closing deals, Sales Representatives also shape the brand's reputation and contribute directly to long-term success.