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Sales Development Representative: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Sales Development Representative?

As a Sales Development Representative in the telemarketing field, you'll be making phone calls to potential customers, promoting various products or services and persuading them to make a purchase. Your main responsibilities include initiating contact with leads, understanding their needs, and recording orders for goods and services.

How do I become a Sales Development Representative?

As a Sales Development Representative in the telemarketing field, you'll be making phone calls to potential customers, promoting various products or services and persuading them to make a purchase. Your main responsibilities include initiating contact with leads, understanding their needs, and recording orders for goods and services.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Sales Development Representative?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Sales Development Representative

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Strong sales and negotiation abilities
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Good time management and organizational skills
  • Proficiency in using computer software and technology
  • Ability to handle rejection and maintain a positive attitude
  • Knowledge of sales techniques and strategies
  • Ability to build and maintain relationships with clients
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and record keeping
  • Flexibility and adaptability to changing sales targets and strategies

Qualifications & Education

  • Academic qualifications may be required
  • On-the-job training is typically provided
  • Short courses in practical skills may be offered
  • NVQs/SVQs in Selling are available at Levels 2 and 3

Career Path

Sales Development Representative
Sales Manager
Regional Sales Manager
Director of Sales
Vice President of Sales
Chief Sales Officer
Account Executive
Senior Account Executive
Enterprise Account Executive
Strategic Account Manager
Business Development Representative
Business Development Manager
Director of Business Development
Customer Success Manager
Senior Customer Success Manager
Customer Success Director

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sales development representative a good career?

Yes, sales development representative can be a good career choice in the UK, especially if you are interested in sales and have good communication skills. The job offers a good payscale and potential for growth if you perform well.

Is sales development representative a stressful job?

Yes, sales development representative is considered a stressful job due to the high pressure to continuously deliver results and the potential for burnout.

What is the career path of a sales development representative?

The career path of a sales development representative can vary, but it could start with a role such as account executive, progress to a title such as sales manager, and eventually lead to the title of senior sales manager.

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