A sales representative is responsible for selling products and services by finding new customers, demonstrating product value, and building relationships. Key duties include prospecting and lead generation, conducting sales presentations, negotiating contracts, and meeting sales targets. They also handle customer inquiries and provide after-sales support.  

Core responsibilities

• Prospecting and lead generation: Identify potential customers through cold calling, networking, referrals, or leads generated by marketing. 
• Customer engagement: Contact and meet with new and existing clients to discuss their needs. 
• Product demonstration and sales presentations: Present products or services, explain their features and benefits, and answer customer questions. 
• Negotiation and closing: Negotiate prices and terms, and close sales agreements. 
• Relationship management: Maintain positive relationships with existing customers and provide exceptional support and after-sales service. 
• Sales target achievement: Meet or exceed sales goals and quotas. 
• Reporting and tracking: Maintain customer records and provide regular reports on sales activities and performance. 
• Market research: Stay informed about industry trends, competitor products, and pricing to identify new business opportunities. 
• Collaboration: Work with other departments, such as marketing, to coordinate sales efforts. 

Key skills and qualifications

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Strong customer service and relationship-building abilities
• Ability to meet and exceed sales targets
• Self-motivation and a results-driven attitude
• Product knowledge and strategic prospecting skills
• Time management and organizational skills
• A bachelor's degree in business or a related field is often preferred but not always required