In today’s rapidly evolving technological environment, tech sales representatives—also known as sales development representatives—work at the forefront. Working with a wide range of clients from various industries, these individuals market cutting-edge goods and services.
Tech sales representatives must combine their technical know-how and sales prowess to pinpoint clients’ specific needs and create customized solutions, whether they are selling to a small startup or a large corporation. Everyone aspires to work for the top tech sales organizations to obtain excellent benefits and a respectable salary.
High earning potential is one of the main drivers of people’s interest in careers in tech sales, but there are other factors to take into account when making this decision, which is why we have put together this list of the best tech sales companies to work for. Are you wondering how to break into the tech sales industry? Here, we will go over the fundamentals of tech sales, the advantages and disadvantages of working in this field, and how you can begin a career in this field in 2023.
How to Get Into Tech Sales
Connecting clients with technology that addresses their issues is the process of tech sales. This covers IT services, hardware, and software.
Those who market technological or scientific solutions to businesses are known as tech sales representatives. A technical sales representative liaises between sales teams and customers. These experts use their technical knowledge to clarify difficult ideas and product details to clients, exhibit products, determine clients’ technical requirements, and raise consumer awareness of a company’s goods or services. A tech sales rep presents their product or service as a remedy for an organization’s existing issue after determining the internal structure of the latter. Tech sales representatives do more than just close deals; they also support businesses after they sign on as clients. There are several stages to selling technology.
- Lead generation
- Prospect and lead qualification
- Determining the requirements of potential customers or clients through research
- Creating unique solutions that cater to the unique requirements and pain points of an organization
- Closing sales
- Sustaining long-lasting customer relationships by providing top-notch support and assistance both during and after the sale
- Conducting discovery calls
- Promoting and displaying products
- Reporting to clients or vendors and preparing proposals
- Examining the most recent market trends
- Fostering relationships with both new and existing customers.
Payscale estimates that the typical tech sales representative makes about $65,000 annually. Some of the factors that can affect a person’s earning potential include education, experience, training, certification, industry, specialization, and location.
Sales of technology are frequently more complex transactions involving establishing connections with various company stakeholders. Companies frequently employ sales methodologies to aid sales representatives in generating value for the customer and a sense of urgency for the deal as a way to help with this.
Pro of Getting Into Tech Sales
#1. Competitive Salaries
The pay for sales positions in the technology sector is typically more competitive than other positions because they require specialized knowledge.
#2. Plenty of Opportunities
There are numerous opportunities for career advancement on a sales team, including those held by account executives, business development representatives, and team managers. Additionally, as your experience grows, you can move vertically to other industry segments that pique your interest, such as food technology, clean technology, and more.
#3. High Demand
Every business depends on sales, so the demand for jobs in the sales industry is at an all-time high. Additionally, the number of technology startups has increased overall by 47% since 2007, which has led to an increase in the demand for qualified tech sales professionals.
#4. Growth Opportunities
On a sales team, there are numerous opportunities for movement due to the variety of roles, including business development positions, account executives, sales leads, team managers, and sales executives.
#5. Building Long-Term Relationships
The relationships that tech sales representatives establish with a variety of customers over time can be very rewarding. These connections may also result in a wider professional network, which might open up even more doors.
#6. Addressing Issues
Selling goods and services that they stand behind while assisting customers in using those goods and services to address real business issues gives many tech sales representatives a sense of fulfillment.
Cons of Getting Into Tech Sales
#1. High Pressure
It is hard work being in sales. Subscription renewals are especially important to tech companies because they depend on them more than other sectors do. The pressure to meet quotas can be a great motivator for some people. However, it may cause stress and even burnout for some people very quickly. To sum up, it takes a lot of commitment and perseverance to succeed in this position, but if you can persevere, you will find the job to have many fulfilling aspects.
#2. Steep Learning Curve
Tech salespeople must be knowledgeable about the products they sell. However, both the industry and the products that makeup it are constantly changing. You should anticipate a challenging learning curve that never ends.
How to Get Into Tech Sales
Despite having a high perceived barrier to entry, the tech industry is not as difficult as it may seem. In other words, there are no rigid requirements you must meet to get a job. It also makes it more competitive, on the other hand. Many businesses provide entry-level jobs where you can learn (or hone) the technical skills required to succeed.
#1. Promote Your Sales Background
Start by looking through your resume for any previous sales experience, even if that was not your primary duty at the time. Look for instances where you expanded your clientele or created new revenue. These two steps in the sales process are essential. Rewrite your resume to emphasize these abilities, and get ready to provide a few examples in the interview.
#2. Obtain Sales (Or Technical) Certifications to Increase Marketability
The addition of sales certifications to your resume will help you stand out as a more qualified applicant. Additionally, there are certifications available for professionals with all levels of experience, including beginner-level and more complex programs. Even if you have some prior sales experience, certifications can help you get better at crucial skills like prospecting and bartering.
#3. A Thorough Understanding of the Sector
Spending a lot of time learning about the tech sector in general and the area you want to pursue in particular. Keep abreast of any trends or shifts in the market by following industry influencers on LinkedIn and participating in online sales communities. Keep track of any significant mergers or acquisitions and keep up with the newest technological developments. This will not only give you a thorough understanding of the sector, but you will also learn terminology and jargon that are specific to the sector that you can use in your upcoming interviews.
#4. Find the Best Businesses
You must qualify companies before contacting them, much like a lead qualification in sales. List the specifics of the position you want, including the tech you want to sell, the salary range, and other details. Determine which businesses are the best fit using this criterion. By doing this, you can have more time to investigate each company, customize your resume, and get ready for interviews.
#5. Network, Network, Network
Before even starting your job applications is the best time to step up your networking efforts. As a result, you will be prepared to use your contacts when needed. Do not forget that networking requires ongoing effort. Continue to expand your network, interact with your contacts, and look for groups to join. Although networking takes time, your efforts may open new doors that would not have been possible otherwise.
Tech Sales Salary
The typical pay for a tech sales representative varies depending on the specific role, years of experience, level of education, industry, location, and organization. In addition to receiving base pay, many sales representatives also receive commissions, which significantly increase their yearly salary.
Tech Sales Requirements
- A bachelor’s degree in business, IT, or a relevant subject.
- 2 years or more of experience in sales or marketing.
- Technical expertise and thorough comprehension of how the company’s products function.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Possessing the capacity to locate and pursue leads.
- Outstanding sales and closing abilities.
- Proficiency with sales promotion strategies.
- Exceptional presentation abilities and a polished appearance.
Best Tech Sales Companies
#1. Salesforce
Salesforce aims to connect businesses and customers through its distinctive platforms. Salesforce’s cloud-based platform offers users several noteworthy advantages, including the ability to locate prospects, close deals, and organize customer data.
They also provide several excellent positions for recent graduates, such as the Business Development Associate position. With the chance to work on actual projects and network with top sales professionals in the industry, the position helps recent graduates develop their business and sales acumen.
While supporting client-facing Business Development Representatives in this position, associates learn the fundamentals of sales and eventually advance to work directly with clients.
#2. Google
This online giant provides a wide range of web-related products and services. Google is present in several market segments, including those for smartphones, cloud-based productivity tools, and other goods. The company’s substantial budget enables it to successfully offer benefits to IT staff. Google was the company that job seekers were most interested in working for because it offers the chance to interact with some of the best digital minds in the world.
The astoundingly high performance and loyalty standards for employees are a difficult aspect of working in tech with the giant. Additionally, there is a lot of competition among the employees, which is rumored to not always be fair and to harm chances for advancement.
#3. Microsoft
Microsoft has held a significant position in the information technology industry since its founding in 1975. It now presents itself as a multinational technology firm that sells consumer electronics, office software, laptops, gadgets, and one of the biggest cloud platforms on the planet.
Microsoft is committed to creating cutting-edge products that advance the market, and maintaining employee morale is a crucial component of achieving its objectives. As a result, it offers exceptional benefits that promote creativity and competition among its employees.
#4. NVIDIA
One of the best technology companies to work for in 2023 is NVIDIA, the leader in graphics processing units and a full-stack computing provider of high-performance processors, enterprise software solutions, and customized systems. It is a pioneer in accelerated computing and invented the GPU in 1999, which helped the PC gaming market expand. The discovery also ushered in the modern era of artificial intelligence, changed computer graphics, and sparked the creation of the metaverse.
Only through commitment and effort will company employees be able to advance their careers in the sector. You might have to put in more time though, especially if you are vying for a promotion. Although the intense competition among NVIDIA team members may seem frightening at first, it will help you demonstrate commitment and initiative in your work.
#5. IBM
This US-based business has built a solid reputation for creating affordable hardware and software solutions for private, business, and industrial use.
The focal point of IBM’s workplace philosophy is inclusivity. The business is committed to using knowledge, reason, and science to advance social and human conditions around the globe. IBM fosters a work environment that encourages education, teamwork, and trust. Additionally, the business values the environment and is socially responsible. The accommodating workplace promotes work-life harmony.
#6. Adobe
Software for business use is available from the multinational corporation. The company’s slogan, “Creating digital experiences,” emphasizes how important it is to produce high-quality software. If you value innovation, equality, and technical know-how above all else, Adobe is the best IT company to work for. The business seeks highly intelligent individuals who enjoy taking on challenging projects to join the teams and provide customers with valuable goods and services. Award-winning Adobe offers its staff members the opportunity to advance their careers.
Is Tech Sales Hard to Get Into?
Tech sales have a low entry barrier due to the abundance of junior positions and the growing willingness of companies to train new sales representatives on the job. In-depth online courses, a boot camp for tech sales, or a tech sales training course
How to Get Into Tech Sales With No Sales Experience?
- Utilize your sales expertise
- Certifications
- Network, network, network
- Become an expert in the field you want to enter.
- Become familiar with the businesses’ sales procedures
- Learn to communicate effectively.
What Is the Best Way to Get Into Tech Sales?
There are many ways to enter general technology sales, including
- Obtaining certifications in sales or technology to increase your marketability.
- Increase your sales experience to strengthen your hard and soft skills.
- Connect with anyone who might be able to lead you to a tech sales opportunity.
Can You Make Good Money in Tech Sales?
Technology salespeople can make an average salary before commissions and bonuses of between $40,000 and $114,000, depending on their years of experience, the market, and the type of organization they work for. One of the quickest career paths to a six-figure salary, according to Prehired, is in the field of technology sales.
Can You Make 6 Figures in Tech Sales?
Many newcomers to the tech sales industry earn more than $100,000 a year. Everything hinges on how diligently you work, how effectively you sell, and how much time you invest in your career. The majority of salespeople receive a base salary and commissions. Different companies have different base salaries and commission percentages.
So, when applying for tech sales jobs, look for a pay scale that corresponds to your current stage of life.
Am I Too Old to Get Into Tech Sales?
It is a common misconception in the business world that young people should not work in technology sales. It is simply untrue. You can make the switch to a career in tech sales, regardless of where you are in your professional journey. It will not be impossible for someone in their 40s or 50s to find a job in tech sales, but it will be a little more challenging.
Is Tech Sales a Stressful Job?
Tech sales representatives may encounter challenging circumstances due to sales quotas, fierce competition, and possibly undecided customers. Even though some people thrive with sales goals and targets, a career in sales may be too demanding for some. Even though it is a fascinating job, not everyone is suited for a career in tech sales.
Conclusion
A career in tech sales not only allows you to work in one of today’s fastest-growing industries, but it also offers competitive pay, lots of room for advancement, and the chance to use cutting-edge solutions. We believe that this article will give you the groundwork you need to carve out a successful career in this fascinating field. starting a career in tech sales can be a rewarding, long-term career choice. Although beginning a new career can be intimidating, you can have faith in the limitless opportunities that the tech sales sector can present!
The best technology companies to work for, based on your career goals and the types of environments that suit your working style
Related Articles
- Tech Recruiter Salary: How Much Do They Make Annually?
- SALES TRAINING PROGRAM: Best Sales Training Programs 2023
- BEST SALES JOBS: Best Sales and Marketing Jobs 2023
- SALES TECHNIQUES: Top 20+ Techniques, Trainings, Closings & B2B
References
