How to become a sales representative
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You may need to do a degree in a subject related to your area of sales, especially if you're selling specialist products or services, for example pharmaceuticals.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship route you take will depend on the kind of products or services you want to sell. You could do a:
- Level 3 IT technical salesperson higher apprenticeship
- Level 4 Sales executive higher apprenticeship
- Level 6 Business to business sales professional degree apprenticeship
Apprenticeships in retail, customer service or marketing may also give you useful experience for getting into this role.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as an administrator in a sales office. Experience in a retail or customer service role may help you to become a sales rep. You'll also need a good standard of English and number skills.
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Career tips
It will help if you have experience or a background in what you're selling.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in sales from the Institute of Sales Professionals.