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Straight Talk about Sales Careers

By Francine L. Huff
Learning & Life Columnist

If you're good at persuading people, a sales career may be a good fit for you. Sales jobs average a sweet starting salary of $37,130, according to CNN Money magazine (that's higher than the average for all U.S. salaries, not just starting salaries). Bonuses and commissions also sweeten the pot.

A Team Effort

In many sales jobs, you'll work with advertising, marketing, and public relations staff to develop sales and marketing strategies. Sales managers help direct a company's sales plan by establishing sales territories, training procedures, and goal and incentive programs. Marketing managers focus on product development, market research, and industry trends.

Sales & Marketing Degrees

Earning a sales and marketing degree can boost your chances for landing a quality job. Online sales and marketing degree programs can allow you to continue working while getting the skills that you need to succeed. An MBA degree with a focus on marketing may be required for positions with more responsibility. Sales and marketing courses may include economics, business law, or statistics.

On the Road Again

Working in sales can require long hours and a lot of networking to be successful. You may find yourself traveling frequently and attending trade shows and conventions. It's important to have good communication skills and it helps if you enjoy meeting new people. Many companies have computerized systems that allow sales staff to communicate remotely, so computer skills are a must.

A sales career can offer a good base salary and the potential to earn raises and bonuses based upon the amount of work you put into it. It's a high visibility job, so being professional at all times will be important for advancement.

Sources

• Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Advertising, Marketing, Promotions, Public Relations, and Sales Managers"
• CNN Money, "Lucrative degrees for college grads"

About the Author
Francine L. Huff is a freelance journalist and the author of The 25-Day Financial Makeover: A Practical Guide for Women. She has appeared on a variety of TV and radio shows.

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