From Zero to Hero: Complete Guide to Landing Your First Tech Sales Role
Published: May 25, 2024
Reading time: 15 minutes
What You'll Learn:
- No experience needed skills
- Training resources
- Application strategies
- Interview preparation
- First 90 days plan
- Career progression
Why Choose Tech Sales?
Career Benefits
- High earning potential
- Clear career progression
- Remote work opportunities
- Transferable skills
- Industry stability
Entry Requirements
- No degree required
- Minimal experience needed
- Accessible training
- Merit-based advancement
- Structured onboarding
Essential Skills for Beginners
Soft Skills
- Communication
- Active listening
- Adaptability
- Problem-solving
- Time management
Technical Skills
- Basic CRM usage
- Email tools
- Video conferencing
- Digital communication
- Basic tech concepts
Sales Skills
- Prospecting
- Discovery calls
- Objection handling
- Follow-up strategies
- Pipeline management
Training and Preparation
1. Free Resources
- HubSpot Academy Sales Training
- LinkedIn Learning Sales Courses
- Sales blogs and podcasts
- YouTube tutorials
- Tech company product demos
2. Paid Programs
- Tech sales bootcamps
- Sales certification programs
- Industry-specific training
- Mentorship programs
- Professional coaching
3. Practical Experience
- Mock sales calls
- Role-playing exercises
- Sales projects
- Networking events
- Internships
Landing Your First Role
1. Resume Building
- Highlight transferable skills
- Include relevant certifications
- Showcase achievements
- Use sales terminology
- Quantify results
2. Job Search Strategy
- Target SDR/BDR roles
- Research companies
- Use LinkedIn effectively
- Network with recruiters
- Follow up consistently
3. Interview Preparation
- Study common questions
- Prepare success stories
- Research products
- Practice mock interviews
- Prepare thoughtful questions
First 90 Days Success Plan
Month-by-Month Guide
Month 1: Foundation
Learn products, processes, and tools. Focus on training and team integration.
Month 2: Implementation
Start outreach, practice pitches, and build pipeline. Track metrics and gather feedback.
Month 3: Optimization
Refine approach, increase activity, and work towards quota. Develop best practices.
Career Progression Path
SDR to AE Timeline
Most SDRs transition to Account Executive roles within 12-18 months. Focus on exceeding quotas, learning products deeply, and developing closing skills.
Compensation Growth
Entry-level SDRs typically start at $45-60k base with $15-30k variable. AE roles can double these figures within 2-3 years.
Long-term Opportunities
Progress to Enterprise Sales, Sales Management, or specialized roles in Sales Operations, Enablement, or Leadership.
Ready to Start Your Tech Sales Career?
Tech sales offers an accessible entry point into a rewarding career. With dedication and the right approach, you can transition into this field regardless of your background.