Therefore, employment is found in such areas as retailing, banking, finance, insurance, advertising, construction, education, manufacturing, health, transportation, utilities, hotels and restaurants. As these employment fields become more and more competitive, opportunities, as well as the demand for areas of specialization, become greater. Sales positions offer a range of opportunities from selling a product or service to selling an idea. The field of sales requires not only the ability to motivate and persuade people, but also requires the ability to listen. Salespersons use a variety of aids such as samples, folders, brochures, flip charts, videotape, and slide shows.
Some salespersons meet customers by appointments, others make cold calls.
Often salespersons work on commission or must meet quotas set by the employer. Customer service is a new area of sales whereby the salesperson deals directly with the buyer and is directly involved with the delivery, installation, and service of the product. Telemarketing is the fastest growing sales area. It involves selling over the telephone and establishing appointments for sales representatives. Sales professionals in all areas must handle pressure and rejection, possess a strong sense of self, and have the ability to motivate with both enthusiasm and empathy.