Getting Started: Complete Guide to Online Sales Jobs for Beginners
Published: May 18, 2024
Reading time: 12 minutes
What You'll Learn:
- Best entry-level roles
- Basic skills needed
- Getting started guide
- Training resources
- First job tips
- Growth opportunities
Best Entry-Level Online Sales Roles
Inside Sales Roles
- Sales Development Rep (SDR)
- Business Development Rep (BDR)
- Lead Generation Specialist
- Sales Support Associate
- Customer Service Rep
Industry Options
- SaaS/Technology
- E-commerce
- Digital Marketing
- Financial Services
- Business Services
Essential Skills for Beginners
Basic Sales Skills
- Communication
- Active listening
- Basic persuasion
- Time management
- Organization
Technical Skills
- Email proficiency
- Video calls
- Basic CRM use
- Digital calendars
- Document tools
Personal Traits
- Self-motivation
- Resilience
- Adaptability
- Positive attitude
- Learning mindset
Getting Started Guide
1. Build Your Foundation
- Complete free online courses
- Watch sales training videos
- Read sales blogs and books
- Practice communication skills
2. Create Your Profile
- Professional LinkedIn profile
- Basic resume
- Online portfolio (if applicable)
- Professional email address
3. Start Networking
- Join LinkedIn groups
- Attend virtual events
- Connect with sales professionals
- Follow companies of interest
Free Training Resources
1. Online Courses
- HubSpot Academy
- LinkedIn Learning
- Google Digital Garage
- YouTube tutorials
- Sales blogs
2. Practice Tools
- Mock call recordings
- Email templates
- CRM demos
- Role-playing exercises
- Sales scripts
3. Community Resources
- Sales forums
- LinkedIn groups
- Discord communities
- Mentorship programs
- Industry webinars
Landing Your First Sales Role
Application Strategy
1. Target the Right Companies
Look for companies with strong training programs and entry-level opportunities.
2. Customize Your Applications
Tailor your resume and cover letter to each role, highlighting relevant skills.
3. Follow Up Consistently
Demonstrate your sales skills by following up professionally on applications.
First 90 Days Success Plan
Month 1: Learning Phase
Focus on understanding the product, company, and sales process. Take detailed notes and ask questions.
Month 2: Practice Phase
Start making calls and sending emails with supervision. Learn from feedback and improve your approach.
Month 3: Performance Phase
Begin working independently and focus on meeting your targets. Develop your own style while following best practices.
Ready to Start Your Sales Career?
Starting a career in sales requires no special degree or experience—just dedication, willingness to learn, and the right attitude. Begin with the resources above and take your first step today.