You may be working in China—by next week you could be in Germany. The work of international sales is invigorating, and a very important branch in any marketing business. So what does this amazing career entail? For starters, you’d better be serious about traveling—because many in this field are traveling 50% of the time. When they are not traveling, they are working on new marketing endeavors, meeting with past clients, or sketching out sales plans. While abroad, they focus on sales presentations, and use all of their powers of persuasion to generate more clients for their company.
Sales jobs are some of the most competitive and pressure-filled careers. They are also very rewarding and prestigious. The international sales department is especially competitive and important. Much of a company’s success comes from international sales, and you as the business representative will be forming the needed relations.
Salaries in this field vary—depending on education, experience, and where you choose to seek employment. But on average, the beginning wage is between $30,000 and $40,000. As far as education goes, you must have at least a bachelor’s (two year degree) in business administration, and any experience in sales will go a long way in recommending you. (In some companies, past selling experience is needed before you can be hired on in international sales.)
In almost all business jobs, your chances to advance in the company are good. The longer you work in business, the more you make, and the more important you become to the company. Oftentimes, the small business man will end up as a very integral part of the company, by serving on the board of directors, or even becoming a leading manger. This is the case with international business sales as well—advancements in both company position and salary are very common.
Some skills that are definitely needed in sales jobs are communication skills. These are paramount—right up there with your sales skills. Sales jobs involve close contact with people from many different cultures, and you will need to be able to express yourself well. Communication and people skills will help dramatically with your sales—the three work hand in hand. Being your best self and company presentation are also extremely important.
You will also need a sense of focus; learning about not only the product you are selling, but becoming knowledgeable about your competitors as well. You won’t be a full-time researcher, but you will need to know how to learn, and learn fast.
Another wonderful aspect of this work that must be noted is the perks. Your company will aim to please, and this manifests itself in many different ways—all good. If you like bonuses, perks, and surprises, rest assured that there would be plenty in this career.
If this is your dream career laid out before you, but you’re still hesitating, let me give you a few reasons not to. For the education required, the salary is amazing. And your work would be amazingly secure. Even if your company failed, talented, experienced international sellers are in high demand everywhere. The employment outlook is extremely good.
