Each year, many sales representatives discover they are unable to earn enough money and leave the occupation. Turnover is generally higher among representatives who sell non-technical services. As a result of this turnover, job opportunities should be good, especially for those with a college degree or a proven sales record. In addition, temporary or contract sales people may be used more frequently for outside sales. Services sales representatives are paid under various systems.
Most firms use a combination of salary and commissions.
Some services sales representatives receive a base salary, plus incentive pay that can add from 25 to 75 percent to their base salary. Many employers offer bonuses, including vacation trips and prizes for sales that exceed company quotas. Sales are affected by changing economic conditions and consumer and business expectations and so earnings may vary greatly from year to year. In addition to the same benefits package provided to other employees of the firm, employers may provide outside sales representatives expense accounts to cover meals and travel, computer and office equipment for use while traveling or at home, and sometimes a company car. Links to non-BLS Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.