ADD ADVICE TO FAVIT sales staff
IT sales staff work for manufacturers, service companies or software houses.
What IT sales staff do
- take responsibility for particular products and/or the accounts of certain customers
- make presentations and demonstrations (sometimes with technical staff) to potential customers
- continue contact with customers, and answer queries before sale is made
- communicate details of order to other departments when sale is agreed
- liaise with marketing department to find new customers, and report back on concerns of current customers to improve products
- keep current customers informed of new developments.
Key skills
- strong communication and presentation skills
- interpersonal skills, including persuasiveness and sensitivity
- business awareness and drive
- flexibility, mobility and numeracy.
Training to work in IT sales
Usually training is on the job (working initially to support other sales staff) along with short courses on product awareness, sales and personal skills.
Some move into sales after training in more technical roles, particularly if they will be selling to IT specialists.
Salaries
Starting salaries range from £17,000 to £28,000, but with a bonus or commission element in addition. A car may be provided for those who are required to be mobile.
Salaries for those with experience are likely to be much higher and include substantial commission.
Professional bodies
- British Interactive Media Association
- Institute of Sales and Marketing Management
- Institute of Scientific and Technical Communicators
