Although employers place an emphasis on a strong educational background, many individuals with previous sales experience who do not have a college degree still enter the occupation.
Many jobs require a great deal of travel.
Many are self-employed manufacturers' agents who work for a commission. Nature of the Work For both manufacturers and wholesalers, sales representatives are an important part of their company's success. Regardless of the type of product they sell, their primary duties are to interest wholesale and retail buyers and purchasing agents in their merchandise and ensure that any questions or concerns of current clients are addressed. They market their company's products to manufacturers, wholesale and retail establishments, government agencies, and other institutions. Sales representatives also provide advice to clients on how to increase sales.