So you’re interested in a career in sales, but don’t have the experience – what do you do?
I was in the same position after I graduated from college with a teaching degree from Central Michigan University. I quickly realized that teaching wasn’t the career for me. Instead, I had an interest in sales. I knew I didn’t want to go back to school for business, but I wanted a successful career. Thankfully, I was able to find a job in sales here in Grand Rapids where I took the time to develop my skills.
When I turned 25, I needed a change, so I moved to Nashville, Tennessee. I didn’t have a job lined up, so I spent my first few days scouting places to apply. Within three days, I had accepted a sales position. I quickly learned that you can get a job anywhere with solid sales experience.
The hardest part of sales is the grind. People tend to see the flashy side which involves closing deals, going to happy hours and golfing. Having a profession in sales comes with a lot of rejection – you need thick skin and sometimes it’s not all glamorous. The great benefits of being in sales come when you build relationships and prove your worth.
At the end of the day, sales is a professional skill. You can’t just show up and wing it – it takes time, effort and patience. To make a great sale you must help your customers solve their problems – this is what we look for in our sales professionals at Service Express. We want people who are always striving to grow, evolve and bend over backwards for their customers.
My advice to everyone who has an interest in sales or a career in business who doesn’t have the experience is to take risks, perfect your craft and never give up.