How to become a sales representative, wholesale and manufacturing, except technical and scientific products
Sell goods for wholesalers or manufacturers to businesses or groups of individuals. Work requires substantial knowledge of items sold.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
What sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing, except technical and scientific products do
- Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, product uses, and credit terms.
- Recommend products to customers, based on customers' needs and interests.
- Estimate or quote prices, credit or contract terms, warranties, and delivery dates.
- Consult with clients after sales or contract signings to resolve problems and to provide ongoing support.
- Prepare sales contracts and order forms.
- Provide customers with product samples and catalogs.
Skills that matter most
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Active Learning
- Monitoring
- Mathematics
Is sales representative, wholesale and manufacturing, except technical and scientific products a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 41% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- Rhode Island $82,420
- District of Columbia $80,010
- Washington $79,830
- Massachusetts $79,810
- New York $79,590
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.