Psychology Career Path: Sales
- Action Steps for Students
- Fieldwork and Research in Psychology
- Potential Career Paths
- Potential Graduate Programs
- Recommended Minors & Certificates
- Undergraduate Course Requirements
- What is a Sales Professional?
Potential Career Paths
- Retail salesperson (B.A.)
- Sales manager (B.A.)
- Sales Representative (B.A.)
- Alumni relations (B.A.)
Potential Graduate Programs
- Business Administration (MBA)
Action Steps for Students
To become more involved in sales or learn about the profession, here is what students can do:
- Visit organizations such as the to learn more about careers in this field.
- Obtain work in a relevant business settings.
- Schedule a meeting with a professional sales representative to discuss the profession.
What is a Sales Professional?
Effectiveness in selling requires a number of important characteristics, including the ability to interact and communicate with people effectively. These skills are often associated with being successful in the field of psychology. Although poorly paid retail sales positions often come to mind when one thinks of sales, there are sales management positions and professional sales positions that are often lucrative. These positions are primarily as wholesale or manufacturing representatives. One may even become certified as a sales professional through various organizations, such as the Manufacturers' Representatives Education Research Foundation. To earn a certificate, normally one must complete a certain amount of training and pass an examination.
Promotion often occurs in the form of assignment transfer to a larger account or territory where commissions are expected to be greater. Those with good sales records and leadership may advance to positions such as supervisor, manager, or vice president of sales. Others who demonstrate research skills may find opportunities in purchasing, advertising, or marketing research.
Sales representatives can either work directly for a manufacturer or wholesaler or they may work with an independent sales agency. Experienced sales representatives working directly for a manufacturer or wholesaler