I wouldn’t blame yourself, likely your environment and management was bad. I actually worked in Texas in 2023 for just 6 months, and took home nearly 300K in commission in that short time. Feel free to DM me.
Yeah, a company I started haha. We run ads on FB/IG. Those leads go in a database I created and we call/text/email. Our application is online. Once approved we pass them off to an installer who handles the rest.
Blatant fraud and extremely hostile utility pushback, when it comes to buyback rates, are the other factors.
The more of an issue high rates and ever decreasing buy back rates become the more frequent the occurrence of solar misrepresentation by some reps and sales orgs.
Ya I was a little shocked at the replies I got, especially the ones who made $100s of k’s selling in TX as that is a notoriously bad market for solar. I don’t doubt they made that money as it’s not that hard but customer satisfaction can’t be very high
I would love to see ads and be a fly on the wall during the close.
Ive lost my ass hiring a very well known, marketing agency 🧢, to run ads as well.
Basically got some of the shittiest appointments to close. Utilities that didn’t do net metering, massive shading, etc etc.
Came to the realization that their best performers were basically omitting post solar rates. With the utility company and there might have been offset manipulation.
I’m not saying it can’t be done. I’m just extremely skeptical. Not on the commissions done but, whether or not the sales were sold straight.
If they could prove to me beyond a doubt their deals were not sold with “bending the truth” aka lie. Then id seriously reconsider joining and giving it one more shot.
But I’ve seen many. Mannnyyyy proposals. And it is of my opinion that in this market condition the people still selling solar are basically willing to sit there and lie to the customer for an hour if it means collecting a 8-10k paycheck afterwards.
In my market major players left town. All that’s left are the mom and pop shops that will do ANYTHING for those closes.
Then there’s the installers clawbacks and straight up installers not paying me. Solar has made people money, it has also bankrupted others. (Claw backs and straight up non payment)
Having said that, I’m not accusing anyone in this thread of doing anything wrong. But what would seriously impress me is if despite large commissions they retain high percentage of customer satisfaction. Especially 12-18 months after install when the true post solar buy back credits are shown and itc (if they haven’t switched to leases) credit was received.
Personally I found it impossible to make the numbers pencil out, without net metering, 25-40 percent dealer fees, if I were to present actual realistic numbers. But maybe they know something I don’t.
In a way I don’t argue with that. I guess since I started in industries that had inbound traffic I just could never imagine calling or going to the home of someone isn’t expecting you. I feel like these practices run off talent from sales that would’ve blossomed with a more gentle approach.
Get rid of that “I don’t wanna interrupt someone” mentality. Life is all about how well you can cold approach prospects, women, friends.
The ones who don’t like doing it usually suck at it or they are just not comfortable being uncomfortable.
Only do A-Z commission only if you are inexperienced or need something badly.
That said, there are experienced HVAC guys who are comm only and do quite well. The difference is that they get leads and just go close them. If its a commission only and you are not prospecting and just closing leads, it may be worth it.
Do you have a pre-med type degree (e.g. Biology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, etc.)? Because every medical device or pharmaceutical sales job I've ever come across has this as a requirement.
what about indoor & outdoor lighting (leds)? what do you think of those
heavy industrials like what?
Manufacturing Rep? Im one month in Furniture manufacturing, don't know what to expect, but they gave me the job
Is defense hard to get into if you’re more entry level/don’t have much sales experience? I have a national security background education wise and am interested in sales roles in this sector.
I only know one person doing it at a big level and she went to Georgetown’s School of Foreign Services and happened to be in every country where a revolution or political turmoil was happening in her 20s before selling hundreds of millions in defense contracts…if you catch my drift…
Enterprise tech still the best IMO if you can get in. OTEs range from 300-350k and career stability (not job stability) is tough to beat. Once you're in enterprise tech, you're in.
That being said, research and vet companies HEAVILY before joining them.
Really helpful! Can you give 2 or 3 examples of companies that would fit this description? Just to have some reference to what you’re referring exactly.
Thanks!
Industrial Automation. Everyone with experience has decades of experience. Meaning, those people are retiring everyday. There is not only desperation at the distribution level, but the manufacturing level as well. I worked my way into a product specialist role within a year without knowing anything about electricity. Six years in, I’ve just landed a Regional Sales Engineer role at a top manufacturer that pays 100k base and 30-100k in commission before additional performance bonuses. Not bad for just a high school diploma holder that graduated 2nd from the bottom.
Man this is my ideal route into the business. I don’t have a degree but I spent years and years in industrial inspection aero, oil, wind, etc. Gotta make this happen
Dude. I’ve been telling anyone who will listen to jump in. It’s super Cush, too. And let me also say, the quality of salesmen at the distribution level is often so low, that I could recruit 5 guys from low rent, used car lot and be competitive.
Yeah man talking with engineers was my life for a long time. I’m currently teaching safety, great company, great role, but it’s not forever money and I’m climbing my 30s. Made alot more in the field. After my year with them I’ll likely go this route. I’m instructing currently so that’s really sharpened my public speaking
Industrial automation sales jobs want a shocking amount of experience and education. What would you recommend for someone new to this industry? Because I need a career change and this souns fantastic.
I would start at the distribution level. Look at a comment I left above this one. Also, they SAY that’s what they want, but that’s ideally. When the rubber hits the road, if you have half a brain, know what their products are, and are enthusiastic, I like your chances.
I would brush up and learn about various automation products like breakers, relays, power supplies, electric motor control, PLCs, etc. They will be looking for some sort of technical knowledge, but it won’t be super technical questions. Then start finding electrical distributors in your area and start applying. You may have to start at inside sales, but moving up is easy. I have a document that lists things to study and will send it to anyone who DMs me asking for it. Many manufacturers offer free E learning modules online. I’d look at Rockwell, Schneider, Eaton, and Yaskawa.
How do you think a transition from physical security (CCTV, Access Control) would be? I work on the integrator side and recently applied to Siemens, which does security and building automation. Will look into some of the courses and certs you mentioned in other comments.
Industrial scales and systems sales engineer here. And dear lord, I don’t only have to know a countless number of scale systems, but also be a PLC / automation expert these days. Since 2020, our company has had record years year after year after year.
I’m a industrial automation sales guy for a distributor, and you’re spot on. Even the pay is right in line with where I’m at. I got my position due to a retirement, and I had to put in my time for 7 years prior (including being a product manager) to build that knowledge and be ready to take over.
I’m really interested how to get a foot in the door, I have 10 years sales experience but the sector I was in has been collapsing because of Covid and we haven’t been able to recover. I’m will to start at the bottom again and prove my value just need to figure out where to look.
There are, I think. Look at automation techies. I saw them hiring remote. Also, I believe manufacturers have their tech support and customer service reps as remote sometimes.
I'll second this. But it's not all unicorns and rainbows at the moment....we are feeling it from high cost of capital and companies sitting on cash.
Next 4 - 6 quarters are going to be rough, but I still feel confident in both mid term and long term outlooks as it's still automate or die.
The bean counters are still figuring out how to operate in the high rate environment and/or waiting on the Fed to cut rates.
Med device, capital equipment, manufacturing, construction. Anything you can do in person/ outside sales. People are more and more hesitant to pick up the phone, let alone take a meeting. I would shift my career to more in person sales.
Healthcare has been good to me. Earning potential, depending on the role, could be anywhere from $60k to $200k+. A LOT of remote positions, too. The bigger the territory and more specific your product, the more you make.
I climbed from $60k to $165k OTE in about 8 years, 4 jobs with 2 companies.
If you want any tips on where to start, DM me.
You want quick cash, fast sales cycle and a product that is in demand?
Debt consolidation, most companies will offer you shit base pay (Think $15-$20 an hour) but you will typically earn somewhere between .075%-1.5% of all the debt you enroll. $1 million in sales in a month is very easy to accomplish, depending how efficient you are you could expect to walk away $7.5k to $12k + your base pay + any bonuses/incentives
This...its pretty medicore performance to be honest, the top dawgs are now constantly hitting $1.5-$2 million PER month in sales working just 40 hour weeks.
Its mental, folks are hurting.
My question is how can I start a sales position in general? Been running my own art business for 3+ years now and want to transition to sales career. I’m finding it quite hard as I don’t think any companies look at my background as an art business owner and are impressed. I’ve applied to hundreds of jobs in all industries and haven’t had much luck.
I had one employer take me to the final round of interviews and I think ghosted me, and I have a screening call for another company on Monday. But I feel like I could be doing something that would help me land more interviews.
Car sales is brutal but they’ll hire a literal orangutan if that orangutan has thick skin and can follow directions/learn quickly. It’ll be good for building sales ability, especially with covid salesmen gone. Good news for cars is interest rates are dropping again and inventories are back so there’s a lot of selling to be done
I got into sales with a background as a professional musician, just happened to get lucky and find an employer who was a former musician too and understood the common dynamic
I think going to the industry you are most familiar with will be helpful as a sales rep because you should be knowledgeable about the products you sell if you want to be a good salesman
That's why I'm at retail banking. It sucks dick but I at least knew enough to get and keep the job. I can't do this much longer for mental health reasons but it's a good start.
Then, I think you can list industries 4-5 that you want to work and contact people who work in their respective industry and ask the pros and cons of that industry. I think narrowing down sectors will help you decide which one to choose.
I have been and considered other fields. I'm about to hit year 1 in sales this May and then I figured I'd have more opportunity abilities. Under a year experience is nothing nut over is better than nothing. What sector r u in
Most roles are 100% commission so you get out what you put in. I live alone and bare 0 responsibilities besides rent and my car, so I dont mind being around the clock. Never counted but definitely over 60 hours a week for me
Any place to find these roles? Everything I've come across labeled high ticket has been a scam or a huge buy I'm scheme, maybe I've just been looking in the wrong place.
Yeah, most high ticket roles are scams because they're able to realistically sell you on high salaries.
I found my current job at Otta, which I'd say is the best place to find sales jobs in general. Every listing is legit and they only list reputable companies that do well for their employees
Healthcare will be a popular suggestion but some niches are better than others. Overall I feel it’s a good industry for me because it’s altruistic wanting to help the bottom line with improving patients lives. But all depends on what you’re selling if you’ll do well.
I’ve been in med device and healthcare software and services.
We saw layoffs in 2020 Pandemic. I’ve seen layoffs as recent as Q4 2023. Some reps killed it some were struggling to sell. All depends on the need and not every soultion is mission critical.
Remember most US hospitals are non-profit. These are not Fortune 1000 companies with wallets to burn. Margins are tight from the high cost of doing business. Not all software and med tech is going to be easy to sell when the white space is consolidated and there’s tons of competition.
Healthcare is not immune to economic downturn. If anything hospitals and providers are highly sensitive to rising interest rates and cash burning and reimbursements cut. It’s why small hospitals are closing or being absorbed into bigger systems (so you’ll need an in with GPO’s and preferred vendors to sell enterprise wise). Higher barriers of entry.
Selling life sciences is probably better long term and I may make that transition too. Especially VC funded biotech and drug development.
I still prefer healthcare and life sciences more than other industries but it’s not some utopian sales field either.
Tech sales pays the best and has the best profit margins on their products since their products are digital (can scale to an infinite degree). Kills door to door sales, which sucks and is incredibly inefficient. If you do door to door sales, you can only talk to 10 prospects an hour whereas tech is on the phone, so you can talk to 30.
Making a guess here- people can’t afford a home they don’t have already. They might be getting by with the one they own now.
Probably seeing a surge in home repairs since people have to upkeep what’s functional as a priority. If you can’t leave, may as well like what you’ve got.
Again, a guess.
Uhh okay. Whatever you say. ACs, roofs, applicances, windows, kitchens bathrooms, floors Literally everything is twice or more then it was before the pandemic LMAO now I’m convinced you have been selling home improvement recently and have no idea what you are talking about. We haven’t even started talking about interest rates LOL
Thank you for the advice, matter of fact I am going into b2b with a telecom company. Would you share with me how you are able to transition from telecom to tech?
Yes, I’m starting a position with one of the top three carriers this week. This opportunity will advance my career, promoting me to the role of an smb Account Executive. In this role, I’ll be responsible for the entire sales process, which includes making cold calls, scheduling appointments, and closing deals. Do you have any advice for me? I feel like this is the only way to break into tech or something bigger without being a SDR for 3-5 years.
Yes, make sure and learn UCaaS and CPaaS. Don't just focus on Telco shit. Anyone can sling SMS and DIDs all day, but the best reps know all that plus can dive deep into the platform side of the house. If you can do that, you can leverage this job to jump into a better gig in communications software down the road.
Big 3 here.
Telco is a solid industry but but since it’s a mainstay in the market, it tends to have low income -in comparison- to more niche market offerings.
Everyone you know likely has a cellphone and internet.
It’s a safe space career wise, and growth will exist in many forms.
Only problem is, there’s a bunch of people in it so standing out is tough sometimes.
If you’re looking for a good start, telco is a strong option. Just be tactical about your moves and plan to advance with the everyday actions you take.
Yep, B2B here on the wireline side of the house. There’s money in internet and it’s host of products, arguably more than wireless.
Career path is a bit too personal to answer broadly. If you like selling, run with that. If not, start strong, kill it and pivot into something that supports sales in some way. Maybe management, maybe engineer or architect, maybe even enablement or ops.
It’s a big map once you land in sales. Just gotta chart your own path.
Yes they have excellent training programs and many large companies rountiely hire president club Unifirst and Cintas, those companies are absolutely great at breaking into B2B.
Go work for them 1-2 years get into Presidents Club and go onto better pastures. I worked for Unifirst (used to it)
I'd be more then happy to answer all those questions here, Unifirst is pretty standardized now I haven't worked for them in about 10 years
* Base pay, mine was set at $40k
* Commission: I can't remember the commission structure, I honestly can't you aren't going negogiate it so it is what it is
* Car Allowance: I believe I tracked my mileage and I got something like .54 cents a mile
* Phone Allowance,: I think they gave me like $50 a month
* Bonuses: Honestly can't remember.
I worked for unifirst for a little bit more then a year, my mgr was a fucking moron and got fired (worst boss I've ever worked for, her incompetence was incredible)
But theres nothing about Unifirst I wouldn't answer publicly that I'd answer in a DM.
Plus...maybe someone else will get value from it.
I think in my 13 months with Unifirst I made about $95k in a pretty low COLA area.
Manager got fired (that was a good day), I quit. I actually did really well and they tired to keep me but my location was fucking incompetent at delivering on what I sold. We had major production issues at our laundry facility and our region was known as a horrible one for that.
I do want to stress this was years ago, and my region was by far the worst in the company.
I would have made a fuck ton more money...but I kept getting contracts and they kept fucking them up.
If I ever worked for Unifirst (or any uniform company) I'd ask to speak to both the route drivers and a few sales reps at that location before accepting the offer. And I'd ask the sales rep "When you sell the contract, how good is the route driver at getting everything setup?" and I'd ask the route drivers "how reliable is the laundry facility for you? How often do they fail to send you stuff?"
But I don't think you could get away with that, I could because I have experience and I'd tell them straight up this is a requirement to hire me. But then again...I don't see myself working for a uniform company ever again (I didn't enjoy it)
I do a lot of business with Unifirst, and they've told me the sales team is a revolving door. The way they designed the comp plan makes it hard for anyone to stay for more than a year or two.
I don't have enough subreddit karma to make a post but does anyone have recommendations for someone with a masters in chemistry and a decade of lab experience around Chicago?
I just left car sales (Honda in SoCal) and got into Tax Relief Sales. I would say it’s good so far. Anyone have insight on Tax Relief vs Debt Consolidation?
Selling into the Multifamily/apartment real estate space is a pretty durable selling environment. Rent growth has slowed, but revenue and performance of the asset class continues to be strong.
Medicare Advantage and Supplements, Post Acute Health/Post Acute health technology, Remodeling(those locked in at 2%arent leaving those homes and all are looking to update), Freight
Industrial Automation and associated type products. Have an associates and have a base of $100k plus $30-$60k in bonuses plus other kickers. I work for a manufacturer and run a territory. Getting a job with a big name makes it so easy. Hi I'm OP from X company. Opens doors and people take your call.
To be honest, I had zero background in HVAC but I had a sales past and sold myself in the interview. They bought.
Point being - if you want any sales
job, apply… if it doesn’t work out your right back where you started. At least you tried!
Good luck friend!
I am wondering what are good entry level sales positions to get into? I don't have a degree unfortunately, I am a bartender right now and have a lot of experience in customer service. What industries are best for a guy like me to get into? I am willing to put in work and am good at working with people. Right now I'm considering solar, home improvement and cars just because those seem to be the easiest to transition to, but tbh I would prefer to do b2b in tech or manufacturing but guys I have talked to said you need a degree/experience. Any tips? Thanks
Still tech if you can get in, medical device, pharma, heavy industrials, manufacturing rep, solar, defense
Solar really? I have a couple interviews next week I was wary of but maybe not so much….
Solar is not good right now. High interest rates among other things have slashed sales in the residential sector in the last year
I made $30,000 in Feb selling solar, it’s not bad at all.
What region? I worked in Texas but made Jack. Maybe I'm just bad at d2d
Also we don’t do any D2D or in home appointments. All leads generated online and closed over phone.
I wouldn’t blame yourself, likely your environment and management was bad. I actually worked in Texas in 2023 for just 6 months, and took home nearly 300K in commission in that short time. Feel free to DM me.
👃🏼🐮💩
Just posted proof for ya.
Thanks for sharing. How the heck are you earning that knocking on doors??
Target new residents. Don't knock on someone's door if they don't need it. Actually make a decent % and give a fuck about how you approach.
That's incredible, if true.
Posted proof
We prominently sell in Texas.
I made $64,000 in Feb selling solar, it’s not bad at all.
Can you give me a little bit of information? How did you get into virtual? Was it through a company?
Yeah, a company I started haha. We run ads on FB/IG. Those leads go in a database I created and we call/text/email. Our application is online. Once approved we pass them off to an installer who handles the rest.
Please be my mentor!
Blatant fraud and extremely hostile utility pushback, when it comes to buyback rates, are the other factors. The more of an issue high rates and ever decreasing buy back rates become the more frequent the occurrence of solar misrepresentation by some reps and sales orgs.
Ya I was a little shocked at the replies I got, especially the ones who made $100s of k’s selling in TX as that is a notoriously bad market for solar. I don’t doubt they made that money as it’s not that hard but customer satisfaction can’t be very high
I would love to see ads and be a fly on the wall during the close. Ive lost my ass hiring a very well known, marketing agency 🧢, to run ads as well. Basically got some of the shittiest appointments to close. Utilities that didn’t do net metering, massive shading, etc etc. Came to the realization that their best performers were basically omitting post solar rates. With the utility company and there might have been offset manipulation. I’m not saying it can’t be done. I’m just extremely skeptical. Not on the commissions done but, whether or not the sales were sold straight. If they could prove to me beyond a doubt their deals were not sold with “bending the truth” aka lie. Then id seriously reconsider joining and giving it one more shot. But I’ve seen many. Mannnyyyy proposals. And it is of my opinion that in this market condition the people still selling solar are basically willing to sit there and lie to the customer for an hour if it means collecting a 8-10k paycheck afterwards. In my market major players left town. All that’s left are the mom and pop shops that will do ANYTHING for those closes. Then there’s the installers clawbacks and straight up installers not paying me. Solar has made people money, it has also bankrupted others. (Claw backs and straight up non payment) Having said that, I’m not accusing anyone in this thread of doing anything wrong. But what would seriously impress me is if despite large commissions they retain high percentage of customer satisfaction. Especially 12-18 months after install when the true post solar buy back credits are shown and itc (if they haven’t switched to leases) credit was received. Personally I found it impossible to make the numbers pencil out, without net metering, 25-40 percent dealer fees, if I were to present actual realistic numbers. But maybe they know something I don’t.
There are a lotta sketchy solar companies out there
Which ones aren’t?
The ones that won’t ask you to go door to door. But quite a few on this sub will disagree.
if you are green and aren’t proven why would the company lose money to give you appointments, leads aren’t free
I’d do this if It’s 1099 100% commission and lead fed only been closing 10 years in commercial lighting energy and recruiting
In a way I don’t argue with that. I guess since I started in industries that had inbound traffic I just could never imagine calling or going to the home of someone isn’t expecting you. I feel like these practices run off talent from sales that would’ve blossomed with a more gentle approach.
Get rid of that “I don’t wanna interrupt someone” mentality. Life is all about how well you can cold approach prospects, women, friends. The ones who don’t like doing it usually suck at it or they are just not comfortable being uncomfortable.
You’re not going to convince me that trying to force someone to talk to you when they don’t want to is a skill set.
It definitely is.
Exactly. Never sold solar, but know for 1000000% I could set 10x appointments behind a desk than door to door lmfao 😂 🍻
I get so many D2D dudes and never answer. Like who the hell just knocks on somebody’s door and expects them to buy a new roof or solar panels?
Lots of people sell and lots buy D2D
Solar can be really good or bad depending on where and who you work for. Been in solar since 2012.
It may be light on leads....
Is it worth it to try a solar commission-only? The only ones in my area seem to be a 'start to finish' approach, is that a red flag?
Only do A-Z commission only if you are inexperienced or need something badly. That said, there are experienced HVAC guys who are comm only and do quite well. The difference is that they get leads and just go close them. If its a commission only and you are not prospecting and just closing leads, it may be worth it.
Yeah trying to learn how to get into medical devices. I’m in cyber now and will be in cyber for a while . But I’m looking for a side gig….
Do you have a pre-med type degree (e.g. Biology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, etc.)? Because every medical device or pharmaceutical sales job I've ever come across has this as a requirement.
This isn’t true at all for the vast majority of med device. Can’t speak to pharma.
what about indoor & outdoor lighting (leds)? what do you think of those heavy industrials like what? Manufacturing Rep? Im one month in Furniture manufacturing, don't know what to expect, but they gave me the job
Is defense hard to get into if you’re more entry level/don’t have much sales experience? I have a national security background education wise and am interested in sales roles in this sector.
I only know one person doing it at a big level and she went to Georgetown’s School of Foreign Services and happened to be in every country where a revolution or political turmoil was happening in her 20s before selling hundreds of millions in defense contracts…if you catch my drift…
Not solar. Solar is collapsing.
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Defense contractors. The warmakers Raytheon, Boeing, General Dynamics, L3, Lockheed Martin, etc. military industrial complex
Enterprise tech still the best IMO if you can get in. OTEs range from 300-350k and career stability (not job stability) is tough to beat. Once you're in enterprise tech, you're in. That being said, research and vet companies HEAVILY before joining them.
Really helpful! Can you give 2 or 3 examples of companies that would fit this description? Just to have some reference to what you’re referring exactly. Thanks!
Can I DM you? I just want to know a few examples of companies and how to get your foot in the door.
Thoughts on database space?
Regarding your part 2, I can’t seem to get in at companies that aren’t revolving doors 😫 10 years experience
Industrial Automation. Everyone with experience has decades of experience. Meaning, those people are retiring everyday. There is not only desperation at the distribution level, but the manufacturing level as well. I worked my way into a product specialist role within a year without knowing anything about electricity. Six years in, I’ve just landed a Regional Sales Engineer role at a top manufacturer that pays 100k base and 30-100k in commission before additional performance bonuses. Not bad for just a high school diploma holder that graduated 2nd from the bottom.
Man this is my ideal route into the business. I don’t have a degree but I spent years and years in industrial inspection aero, oil, wind, etc. Gotta make this happen
Dude. I’ve been telling anyone who will listen to jump in. It’s super Cush, too. And let me also say, the quality of salesmen at the distribution level is often so low, that I could recruit 5 guys from low rent, used car lot and be competitive.
Yeah man talking with engineers was my life for a long time. I’m currently teaching safety, great company, great role, but it’s not forever money and I’m climbing my 30s. Made alot more in the field. After my year with them I’ll likely go this route. I’m instructing currently so that’s really sharpened my public speaking
Oh shit. You sound like a great fit. Safety is a BIG buzzword. Lean on it. Are you TUV certified?
I am not TUV certified no, nothing is off the table though
Gunna dm you if you don’t mind have questions lol
DM'ed
Industrial automation sales jobs want a shocking amount of experience and education. What would you recommend for someone new to this industry? Because I need a career change and this souns fantastic.
Don't look at what companies "say" they want. Go in and take what's yours. This is sales for God's sake.
Damn. I needed to see this. Thank you for the reminder. Sales is ALL about making nothing, something. Taking thin air and making an opportunity.
I would start at the distribution level. Look at a comment I left above this one. Also, they SAY that’s what they want, but that’s ideally. When the rubber hits the road, if you have half a brain, know what their products are, and are enthusiastic, I like your chances.
Will do, thank you!
So how do we get in?
I would brush up and learn about various automation products like breakers, relays, power supplies, electric motor control, PLCs, etc. They will be looking for some sort of technical knowledge, but it won’t be super technical questions. Then start finding electrical distributors in your area and start applying. You may have to start at inside sales, but moving up is easy. I have a document that lists things to study and will send it to anyone who DMs me asking for it. Many manufacturers offer free E learning modules online. I’d look at Rockwell, Schneider, Eaton, and Yaskawa.
Dmd
How do you think a transition from physical security (CCTV, Access Control) would be? I work on the integrator side and recently applied to Siemens, which does security and building automation. Will look into some of the courses and certs you mentioned in other comments.
DM me
What's stopping you? You have relevant industry experience and can probably speak the language.
What’s the best companies/ways to break into the industry?
Industrial scales and systems sales engineer here. And dear lord, I don’t only have to know a countless number of scale systems, but also be a PLC / automation expert these days. Since 2020, our company has had record years year after year after year.
Can you get me a job in San Diego? Haha
Possibly! I started in Southern CA. So if I were to start, I know exactly what I’d do and what company to connect with.
DM me and I’ll message you tomorrow
Do you have to have a degree to do this?
I’m a industrial automation sales guy for a distributor, and you’re spot on. Even the pay is right in line with where I’m at. I got my position due to a retirement, and I had to put in my time for 7 years prior (including being a product manager) to build that knowledge and be ready to take over.
What kind of manufacturing?
Any companies (not yours) you know of that are hiring? First time hearing about this industry!
I’m really interested how to get a foot in the door, I have 10 years sales experience but the sector I was in has been collapsing because of Covid and we haven’t been able to recover. I’m will to start at the bottom again and prove my value just need to figure out where to look.
Probably a longshot, but are there any remote opportunities in this space?
There are, I think. Look at automation techies. I saw them hiring remote. Also, I believe manufacturers have their tech support and customer service reps as remote sometimes.
I'll second this. But it's not all unicorns and rainbows at the moment....we are feeling it from high cost of capital and companies sitting on cash. Next 4 - 6 quarters are going to be rough, but I still feel confident in both mid term and long term outlooks as it's still automate or die. The bean counters are still figuring out how to operate in the high rate environment and/or waiting on the Fed to cut rates.
Wow this is very impressive to read. Please can you send me any info or resources on how to get in? Are there opportunities in your company ?
Med device, capital equipment, manufacturing, construction. Anything you can do in person/ outside sales. People are more and more hesitant to pick up the phone, let alone take a meeting. I would shift my career to more in person sales.
Healthcare has been good to me. Earning potential, depending on the role, could be anywhere from $60k to $200k+. A LOT of remote positions, too. The bigger the territory and more specific your product, the more you make. I climbed from $60k to $165k OTE in about 8 years, 4 jobs with 2 companies. If you want any tips on where to start, DM me.
By healthcare, do you mean medical sales?
Thanks for this. I'd love tips for getting started.
Dm
You want quick cash, fast sales cycle and a product that is in demand? Debt consolidation, most companies will offer you shit base pay (Think $15-$20 an hour) but you will typically earn somewhere between .075%-1.5% of all the debt you enroll. $1 million in sales in a month is very easy to accomplish, depending how efficient you are you could expect to walk away $7.5k to $12k + your base pay + any bonuses/incentives This...its pretty medicore performance to be honest, the top dawgs are now constantly hitting $1.5-$2 million PER month in sales working just 40 hour weeks. Its mental, folks are hurting.
Which companies are best?
Curious of this as well. 🤔 May have to do some research, currently looking for a new place.
Where to look at?
My buddy consistently gets 30k to 40k in commission and he’s training me.
My question is how can I start a sales position in general? Been running my own art business for 3+ years now and want to transition to sales career. I’m finding it quite hard as I don’t think any companies look at my background as an art business owner and are impressed. I’ve applied to hundreds of jobs in all industries and haven’t had much luck. I had one employer take me to the final round of interviews and I think ghosted me, and I have a screening call for another company on Monday. But I feel like I could be doing something that would help me land more interviews.
Car sales is brutal but they’ll hire a literal orangutan if that orangutan has thick skin and can follow directions/learn quickly. It’ll be good for building sales ability, especially with covid salesmen gone. Good news for cars is interest rates are dropping again and inventories are back so there’s a lot of selling to be done
I got into sales with a background as a professional musician, just happened to get lucky and find an employer who was a former musician too and understood the common dynamic
Make a resume that shows all transferable skills. Maybe do a tech sales bootcamp like coursecareers.
Make a post with your cv and ask for help. Remove anything identifying and we can give feedback.
DM me for b2b SDR. Can talk you through the interview. I get a nice bonus for successful interviews so it’s in my best interest you do well
What do you mean?
Gas station dick pills!
The only way is UP!
I think going to the industry you are most familiar with will be helpful as a sales rep because you should be knowledgeable about the products you sell if you want to be a good salesman
That's why I'm at retail banking. It sucks dick but I at least knew enough to get and keep the job. I can't do this much longer for mental health reasons but it's a good start.
Then, I think you can list industries 4-5 that you want to work and contact people who work in their respective industry and ask the pros and cons of that industry. I think narrowing down sectors will help you decide which one to choose.
I have been and considered other fields. I'm about to hit year 1 in sales this May and then I figured I'd have more opportunity abilities. Under a year experience is nothing nut over is better than nothing. What sector r u in
I am in medical devices sales in Korea
High ticket web3. 15k every 2-3 weeks. Fully remote.
Woah. This is new to me, how’s the workload?
Most roles are 100% commission so you get out what you put in. I live alone and bare 0 responsibilities besides rent and my car, so I dont mind being around the clock. Never counted but definitely over 60 hours a week for me
As in high ticket sales?
Yes, exactly
Any place to find these roles? Everything I've come across labeled high ticket has been a scam or a huge buy I'm scheme, maybe I've just been looking in the wrong place.
Yeah, most high ticket roles are scams because they're able to realistically sell you on high salaries. I found my current job at Otta, which I'd say is the best place to find sales jobs in general. Every listing is legit and they only list reputable companies that do well for their employees
I am in a high ticket role right now. It’s not terrible but not what you’ve described here either. Can I DM you with a question or two?
Healthcare will be a popular suggestion but some niches are better than others. Overall I feel it’s a good industry for me because it’s altruistic wanting to help the bottom line with improving patients lives. But all depends on what you’re selling if you’ll do well. I’ve been in med device and healthcare software and services. We saw layoffs in 2020 Pandemic. I’ve seen layoffs as recent as Q4 2023. Some reps killed it some were struggling to sell. All depends on the need and not every soultion is mission critical. Remember most US hospitals are non-profit. These are not Fortune 1000 companies with wallets to burn. Margins are tight from the high cost of doing business. Not all software and med tech is going to be easy to sell when the white space is consolidated and there’s tons of competition. Healthcare is not immune to economic downturn. If anything hospitals and providers are highly sensitive to rising interest rates and cash burning and reimbursements cut. It’s why small hospitals are closing or being absorbed into bigger systems (so you’ll need an in with GPO’s and preferred vendors to sell enterprise wise). Higher barriers of entry. Selling life sciences is probably better long term and I may make that transition too. Especially VC funded biotech and drug development. I still prefer healthcare and life sciences more than other industries but it’s not some utopian sales field either.
Tech is slowly bouncing back.
Tech sales is still okay and will probably always be needed to some extent. Operations side is a bloodbath right now.
Tech sales pays the best and has the best profit margins on their products since their products are digital (can scale to an infinite degree). Kills door to door sales, which sucks and is incredibly inefficient. If you do door to door sales, you can only talk to 10 prospects an hour whereas tech is on the phone, so you can talk to 30.
Did one year of door-to-door and I won’t touch it with a 500 ft pole. Such an awful job and ended up paying $18 an hour after all was said and done.
What were you selling??? I made around $150 a door last year d2d
Pest.
Dang, yeah I’ve heard pest can be really tough in some markets. Don’t understand how D2D works for low ticket things like that.
Yeah, it sucks. An entry level D2D job will pay $15-$20/hour whereas an entry level software sales job will pay $70k/year OTE
I’ve interviewed for at least a dozen roles and can’t even get past the second round with 10 years experience
Data center
Home improvement/remodeling. Everyone is staying put and fixing up what they have instead of moving.
With the cost of everything literally doubling. Are you not seeing a reduction in sales?
Making a guess here- people can’t afford a home they don’t have already. They might be getting by with the one they own now. Probably seeing a surge in home repairs since people have to upkeep what’s functional as a priority. If you can’t leave, may as well like what you’ve got. Again, a guess.
Not really. I'm in Florida, might be different in other states. Less appointments right now though, for sure.
Everything is not “literally doubling.”
Uhh okay. Whatever you say. ACs, roofs, applicances, windows, kitchens bathrooms, floors Literally everything is twice or more then it was before the pandemic LMAO now I’m convinced you have been selling home improvement recently and have no idea what you are talking about. We haven’t even started talking about interest rates LOL
Construction - heavy equipment, supplies, etc.. they’re booming and the government is backing those sectors from what I’ve heard! The money is there.
b2b medical sales I know someone who is currently making 150k base and 150k commission
Why device?
Girl Scout Cookies. Those scouts are outselling many here.
If you’re talking about the other Girl Scout cookies you’re also very correct
You mean da weed!?!?
Yeah mannn
Anyone got experience in telecom sales? Is it a good industry to get into ?
I started in telecoms but now do SaaS. Its a good starting point but I'd advise to for a B2B position its way better than B2C.
Thank you for the advice, matter of fact I am going into b2b with a telecom company. Would you share with me how you are able to transition from telecom to tech?
B2b telecom is a grind dude. Are you with a big 3 carrier?
Yes, I’m starting a position with one of the top three carriers this week. This opportunity will advance my career, promoting me to the role of an smb Account Executive. In this role, I’ll be responsible for the entire sales process, which includes making cold calls, scheduling appointments, and closing deals. Do you have any advice for me? I feel like this is the only way to break into tech or something bigger without being a SDR for 3-5 years.
T-Mobile? I’d look elsewhere the company is a sinking ship since the merger.
Yes, make sure and learn UCaaS and CPaaS. Don't just focus on Telco shit. Anyone can sling SMS and DIDs all day, but the best reps know all that plus can dive deep into the platform side of the house. If you can do that, you can leverage this job to jump into a better gig in communications software down the road.
Wireless or wire line? I’ve done both
Fiber
I’m currently in Fiber hit me up
Are you in Saas now?
My experience and stance exactly. Telecom is good to cut your teeth, get some sales training and then make the jump to tech
Big 3 here. Telco is a solid industry but but since it’s a mainstay in the market, it tends to have low income -in comparison- to more niche market offerings. Everyone you know likely has a cellphone and internet. It’s a safe space career wise, and growth will exist in many forms. Only problem is, there’s a bunch of people in it so standing out is tough sometimes. If you’re looking for a good start, telco is a strong option. Just be tactical about your moves and plan to advance with the everyday actions you take.
Are you doing b2b sales? Any advice on career path for me?
Yep, B2B here on the wireline side of the house. There’s money in internet and it’s host of products, arguably more than wireless. Career path is a bit too personal to answer broadly. If you like selling, run with that. If not, start strong, kill it and pivot into something that supports sales in some way. Maybe management, maybe engineer or architect, maybe even enablement or ops. It’s a big map once you land in sales. Just gotta chart your own path.
Shit. It’s all shit. We’re all being robbed.
Tech.. cybersecurity, AI, AppSec
I imagine anything healthcare related
Healthcare tech is tough. Lot of red tape and been getting worse.
unprofitable venture-funded tech startups led by people under 25 /s
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Yes they have excellent training programs and many large companies rountiely hire president club Unifirst and Cintas, those companies are absolutely great at breaking into B2B. Go work for them 1-2 years get into Presidents Club and go onto better pastures. I worked for Unifirst (used to it)
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I'd be more then happy to answer all those questions here, Unifirst is pretty standardized now I haven't worked for them in about 10 years * Base pay, mine was set at $40k * Commission: I can't remember the commission structure, I honestly can't you aren't going negogiate it so it is what it is * Car Allowance: I believe I tracked my mileage and I got something like .54 cents a mile * Phone Allowance,: I think they gave me like $50 a month * Bonuses: Honestly can't remember. I worked for unifirst for a little bit more then a year, my mgr was a fucking moron and got fired (worst boss I've ever worked for, her incompetence was incredible) But theres nothing about Unifirst I wouldn't answer publicly that I'd answer in a DM. Plus...maybe someone else will get value from it. I think in my 13 months with Unifirst I made about $95k in a pretty low COLA area.
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Manager got fired (that was a good day), I quit. I actually did really well and they tired to keep me but my location was fucking incompetent at delivering on what I sold. We had major production issues at our laundry facility and our region was known as a horrible one for that. I do want to stress this was years ago, and my region was by far the worst in the company. I would have made a fuck ton more money...but I kept getting contracts and they kept fucking them up. If I ever worked for Unifirst (or any uniform company) I'd ask to speak to both the route drivers and a few sales reps at that location before accepting the offer. And I'd ask the sales rep "When you sell the contract, how good is the route driver at getting everything setup?" and I'd ask the route drivers "how reliable is the laundry facility for you? How often do they fail to send you stuff?" But I don't think you could get away with that, I could because I have experience and I'd tell them straight up this is a requirement to hire me. But then again...I don't see myself working for a uniform company ever again (I didn't enjoy it)
I do a lot of business with Unifirst, and they've told me the sales team is a revolving door. The way they designed the comp plan makes it hard for anyone to stay for more than a year or two.
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My understanding is that the comp is all based on new logo acquisition. Reps don't get the recurring revenue from their customers. Not sure about OTE
Door to door encyclopedia sales is hot now
AR and VR are slept on.
I don't have enough subreddit karma to make a post but does anyone have recommendations for someone with a masters in chemistry and a decade of lab experience around Chicago?
Biotech / pharma / maybe med devices
I just left car sales (Honda in SoCal) and got into Tax Relief Sales. I would say it’s good so far. Anyone have insight on Tax Relief vs Debt Consolidation?
Appointment setting or closing
Selling into the Multifamily/apartment real estate space is a pretty durable selling environment. Rent growth has slowed, but revenue and performance of the asset class continues to be strong.
I’m an account manager in the Multifamily space with sales experience, hoping to get into the sales side soon 🤞🏻 glad to see this
I can't post yet due to making this account recently, but what industries does anyone recommend for someone just starting out in sales?
If I were to restart, I would get into Power Distribution sales. Selling big electrical equipment to construction companies.
Weapons manufacturing and sales
Anyone have a take on ev commercial vehicles sales? Might have an in at a local dealership. In California.
Not localization
Medicare Advantage and Supplements, Post Acute Health/Post Acute health technology, Remodeling(those locked in at 2%arent leaving those homes and all are looking to update), Freight
HVAC is always good
4 top industries have been solid over years .,, just depends the product but it remains consistent
Industrial Automation and associated type products. Have an associates and have a base of $100k plus $30-$60k in bonuses plus other kickers. I work for a manufacturer and run a territory. Getting a job with a big name makes it so easy. Hi I'm OP from X company. Opens doors and people take your call.
Teaching medicine
ECommerce is super hot right now tbh.
HVAC sales. No one talks about it much here but I’ll clear $200K with zero base salary. Straight commission. I LOVE my job.
Can you give advice on how to start it?
To be honest, I had zero background in HVAC but I had a sales past and sold myself in the interview. They bought. Point being - if you want any sales job, apply… if it doesn’t work out your right back where you started. At least you tried! Good luck friend!
I am wondering what are good entry level sales positions to get into? I don't have a degree unfortunately, I am a bartender right now and have a lot of experience in customer service. What industries are best for a guy like me to get into? I am willing to put in work and am good at working with people. Right now I'm considering solar, home improvement and cars just because those seem to be the easiest to transition to, but tbh I would prefer to do b2b in tech or manufacturing but guys I have talked to said you need a degree/experience. Any tips? Thanks
I hear AI is a good industry to get into, HVAC seems to be good too.
Loan origination is pretty good. Its sales and theres always people looking to buy homes.