Take the Next Steps

If you’re interested in a career in technical sales, take these steps to learn more!

Learn more about the different technical industries that employ sales representatives.
The field of technical sales is quite varied based on the kind of industry or product that you are most interested in representing. Research the various organizations such as scientific or analytical instrumentation, measurement and testing products, imaging and laboratory equipment, chemical abstract services and scientific publications, and computing software firms, to name a few.

Intern or take a short term position.
Contact an organization such as a laboratory equipment manufacturer about an internship or part time position in customer service, as a sales assistant, or intern in the marketing department. Gaining practical hands-on experience will help you understand the work and if it is something that you would like to pursue.

Meet with a technical sales professional.

• Schedule a meeting with a technical sales rep – find them through ACS, FaceBook, or companies in your area.
• Meet with a technical sales manager to understand what they look for when hiring new sales representatives and what the entry career track looks like in their company.

Ask them about why they went into the field, what they like about it, what you need to know before going into sales, how to best prepare for a career in the field, what kinds of jobs are available, and what the future holds.

Meet with a Professor who teaches sales and marketing courses.
Talk with both science and business professors to understand the field of technical sales and the skills and characteristics that will serve you best.

Consider business education.
If you are considering a sales position, consider taking business courses, specifically in selling. These courses will give you the business skills necessary to be successful. Also consider language training as global opportunities increase.