What Types of Sales Jobs Are There?

The dynamic world of sales offers a plethora of exciting opportunities on a wide range of career paths for those with an enthusiasm for relation-building, knack for problem solving, and dedication to meeting business targets. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding the various types of sales jobs available can help you identify the right fit for your skills and interests.  

In this blog we explore a non-exhaustive list of the most common sales jobs and the responsibilities associated with them.

1. Inside Sales Representative 

Sales representatives are the front-line ambassadors for a company's products or services. They’re responsible for prospecting, pitching, and closing sales deals. Duties will include: 

• Customer Interaction: Engage with customers via phone, email, and other digital channels to understand their needs and provide solutions. 
• Sales Targets: Meet or exceed sales targets by identifying opportunities, making product recommendations, and closing sales.  
• Product Knowledge: Maintain a thorough understanding of products and services to effectively communicate features and benefits to customers.  
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Use CRM tools to track customer interactions, manage leads, and ensure follow-ups.  
• Problem Solving: Address customer inquiries and issues, providing solutions to ensure customer satisfaction.  
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with field sales teams, marketing, and other departments to coordinate efforts and share information.  
• Training and Development: Continuously improve sales skills and product knowledge through training and development opportunities. 

Sales representatives work in a wide variety of industries including retail, pharmaceuticals, technology, construction and more. Strong communication skills, a passion for success and resilience are key attributes for success in this role. 

2. Account Manager 

Account Managers (often simply ‘AMs’, and sometimes referred to as field sales representatives) play a crucial role in nurturing and growing client relationships by serving as the main point of contact for clients and ensuring their needs are met. They are responsible for building strong relationships, understanding client goals and challenges, and proactively addressing issues.  

Their key duties include: 

• Client Visits and Management: Conduct face-to-face meetings and build strong relationships to understand client needs and propose solutions. 
• Networking: Attend industry events to generate leads and strengthen connections. 
• Upselling and Cross-selling: Identify opportunities to introduce additional products or services to existing clients. 
• Sales Reporting: Maintain detailed records of sales activities and outcomes. 
• Problem-solving: Quickly address client concerns with practical solutions, building trust and strengthening relationships. 
• Contract Renewals: Manage and negotiate ongoing contracts to ensure client satisfaction and retention. 
• Business development:  Prospecting, pitching, closing sales and ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business. 

Account Managers enjoy a degree of autonomy in managing their schedules, requiring strong organizational and self-motivation skills. They play a critical role in maximizing customer retention and driving growth by expanding existing accounts. 

3. Sales Engineer 

Sales engineering combines a thorough degree of technical knowledge with a salesperson's traditional skillset to sell products, services or solutions. They usually work closely with the product development team, liaising with customers to ensure the offered solution that’s being developed meets the client's requirements. Responsibilities typically include: 

• Technical Presentations: explaining the technical aspects of products or solutions to current or prospective clients. 
• Solution Design: collaborating with engineers to customize solutions based on client needs. 
• Sales Support: assisting the sales team with technical expertise during the sales process. 

Sales engineers usually require a bachelor’s degree and a strong technical background, along with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities. 

4. Sales Manager 

A sales manager position is a senior role responsible for overseeing teams of sales professionals and setting the team's targets. The sales manager develops and oversees the implementation of sales strategies, and coaches team members to meet their targets and achieve their goals. Key responsibilities will likely include: 

• Team Leadership: hiring, training, and motivating a company’s sales teams. 
• Strategy Development: developing sales plans and strategies that will the meet growth objectives of the business. 
• Performance Management: keeping an active view of the sales team’s performance and coaching for improvement as needed 
• Collaboration: the sale manager will likely be working closely with other departments such as marketing and product development to ensure sales knowledge and customer feedback makes its way into the business’ ongoing product development cycles. 

To succeed in a sales manager role, you’ll need to have to have relevant sales experience, demonstrable leadership qualities, strategic thinking ability, and a proven track record. 

Sales is a rewarding career path 

As a career, sales work continues to evolve, with your potential limited only by your dedication. There’s a broad array of careers out there, with companies always on the lookout for personable, capable people. If you’re someone who thrives on the hands-on interactions of a sales representative, has the strategic planning ability required of a sales manager, or possesses the technical expertise of a sales engineer, there are dozens of industries waiting to make use of your unique strengths and interests. 

Sales positions not only open doors to an exciting career path but offer insight into different industries and sectors. At Hilti for instance, a significant percentage of our leadership team, marketing and product development teams started out as part of our sales team. Sales is a fantastic way to get to know the products a company offers, to build relationships with knowledgeable and loyal customers, and to branch out into exciting new areas and opportunities. 

Each industry presents its own challenges and rewards, so you can match your passion to your profession! 

Consider reaching out to professionals in your desired field, attending industry events, or pursuing relevant certifications to enhance your skills and knowledge. 

Remember, a successful sales career is not just about meeting targets—it's about building meaningful connections, solving problems, and contributing to the growth of businesses and communities. Be proactive: step toward opportunity. If you have experience, use that knowledge. If you’re just starting out, demonstrate enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.