Marketing, Sales & Service:
Skills & Job Outlook for this Career Cluster
On The Job:
- Entry-level positions typically offer flexible hours, but this often means being available at the customer's convenience. Some sales work involves travel.
- More than other occupations, pay for marketing and sales positions is dependent on performance. It's common for workers to earn a commission based on their amount of sales, with little or no base pay. Competition among workers can be strong.
- Some workers choose to specialize in a specific type of product, like pharmaceuticals, computers, furniture or cars.
- The skills gained in marketing and sales positions are transferable to any job. All industries need people who can work under pressure, think creatively and persuade customers. Many sales workers advance by moving from company to company.
What Skills Do You Need?
- Detail orientation to know specifics of products or services offered.
- Flexibility to accept times when sales and money are low.
- Initiative to continually strive to find new customers.
- Organization skills to keep track of sales records, market trends and customer files.
- People-orientation skills to build on-going relationships with customers.
- Self-confidence to face rejection and keep a positive attitude.
- Speaking skills to explain the benefits of a product or service to potential customers.
Job Outlook: GOOD
There will always be a need to sell a variety of goods and services to businesses and individuals, creating a need for new employees. High turnover also generates openings.
In Minnesota, the opening of new retail stores and a growing housing market generate jobs. The trend for more small businesses to invest in marketing and public relations strategies creates opportunities in those areas.
The demand for employment in sales is dependent on consumer preferences and the economy. World events and a struggling economy affect sales positions related to travel.
People marketing products for the elderly can expect a steady increase as the population ages. The Internet has changed the way that companies promote their goods as more consumers go online to buy more products and services.
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