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How Do I Become a Product Sales Representative?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

To become a product sales representative you must have a strong sales ability, in addition to extensive knowledge of the product you are selling. Choose a product that interests you and one that you are familiar with or have experience in using. Additionally, it's a good idea to research all you can about that product you wish to sell. If you decide to become a product sales representative, you might want to focus on a specific industry, such as pharmaceutical sales, insurance sales or Internet sales. Consider accepting a part-time entry-level product sales position, attend sales seminars and training courses, and hone your communication and customer service skills.

Assuming you have some level of sales experience, you should narrow your choices if you wish to become a product sales representative. Choose a product that you have knowledge of and are experienced with, or one that you will devote time and effort to research and study. To be successful in product sales, you must feel good about the product you sell. As a salesperson, you are more likely to be persuasive about a product you are passionate about, than one you have little interest in.

A product sales representative must have excellent customer service skills.
A product sales representative must have excellent customer service skills.

Choose an industry that deals with your product of interest. If you've decided to become a product sales representative in pharmaceutical sales, you might want to take college courses in biochemistry or biology, or consider an entry-level job as a pharmacy technician. If you desire to become an insurance product sales representative, you will most likely need to obtain certification or an insurance license. To become a product sales representative in Internet sales and marketing, it might be a good idea to begin with an online store on an Internet auction website.

To be successful in product sales, the individual must feel good about the product that he sells.
To be successful in product sales, the individual must feel good about the product that he sells.

Inquire about taking sales training courses or attending seminars at your local university or business school. The knowledge you receive may be quite valuable as you strive to become a product sales representative. Even if you've chosen a particular service or product to sell, do not limit yourself. Attend seminars and courses that deal with every aspect of sales. Trade shows may provide further insight, and you may find it lucrative to move in another direction with a different product.

Regardless of your previous experience in sales, you should fine tune your communication and people skills. You may find helpful strategies by reading guidebooks or downloading special software programs. Taking a customer service training course may also be instrumental for developing your sales prowess.

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    • A product sales representative must have excellent customer service skills.
      By: Jeanette Dietl
      A product sales representative must have excellent customer service skills.
    • To be successful in product sales, the individual must feel good about the product that he sells.
      By: jura
      To be successful in product sales, the individual must feel good about the product that he sells.