Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

O’NET publishes details below this occupation’s level. Showing Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products — one of 2 occupations here: Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products, Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Negotiate prices or terms of sales or service agreements.83
Prepare and submit sales contracts for orders.81
Visit establishments to evaluate needs or to promote product or service sales.81
Sell service contracts for technical or scientific products.81
Maintain customer records, using automated systems.80
Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, or credit terms.79
Quote prices, credit terms, or other bid specifications.78
Contact new or existing customers to discuss how specific products or services can meet their needs.77
Emphasize product features, based on analyses of customers' needs and on technical knowledge of product capabilities and limitations.76
Compute customer's installation or production costs and estimate savings from new services, products, or equipment.75
Demonstrate the operation or use of technical or scientific products.75
Select or assist customers in selecting products based on customer needs, product specifications, and applicable regulations.72

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Prepare sales presentations or proposals to explain product specifications or applications.72
Provide feedback to product design teams so that products can be tailored to clients' needs.72
Complete expense reports, sales reports, or other paperwork.71
Verify that delivery schedules meet project deadlines.71
Identify prospective customers, using business directories, leads from existing clients, participation in organizations, or trade show or conference attendance.70
Arrange for installation and testing of products or machinery.70
Inform customers of estimated delivery schedules, service contracts, warranties, or other information pertaining to purchased products.69
Collaborate with colleagues to exchange information, such as selling strategies or marketing information.68
Initiate sales campaigns to meet sales and production expectations.68
Provide customers with ongoing technical support.67
Advise customers on product usage to improve production.66
Verify accuracy of materials lists.66
Verify customer credit ratings.65
Consult with engineers regarding technical problems with products.63
Sell technical and scientific products that are environmentally sound or designed for environmental remediation.62
Study documentation or other information for new scientific or technical products.59
Stock or distribute resources, such as samples or promotional or educational materials.58
Attend sales or trade meetings or read related publications to obtain information about market conditions, business trends, environmental regulations, or industry developments.57
Visit establishments, such as pharmacies, to determine product sales.55
Present information to customers about the energy efficiency or environmental impact of scientific or technical products.49
Inform customers about issues related to responsible use and disposal of products, such as waste reduction or product or byproduct recycling or disposal.47

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Persuasion81
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Speaking81
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Listening78
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Negotiation75
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Social Perceptiveness72
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Reading Comprehension69
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Service Orientation69
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Coordination66
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Active Learning63
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Complex Problem Solving60
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Critical Thinking60
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Writing60
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

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Judgment and Decision Making53
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Monitoring53
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
Mathematics47
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Systems Analysis47
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Learning Strategies44
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Financial Resources41
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Personnel Resources41
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Management of Material Resources38
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Operations Analysis28
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Systems Evaluation28
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Operation and Control25
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Programming25
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Technology Design25
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Operations Monitoring22
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Quality Control Analysis22
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Equipment Selection16
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Science13
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Equipment Maintenance0
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Repairing0
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Troubleshooting0
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Customer and Personal Service86
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Sales and Marketing83
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
English Language67
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Administration and Management54
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Mathematics54
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Production and Processing53
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Computers and Electronics51
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Administrative46
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Education and Training40
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Engineering and Technology40
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Psychology39
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Communications and Media37
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

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Telecommunications36
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Economics and Accounting34
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Transportation32
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Chemistry29
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Design29
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Geography27
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Personnel and Human Resources26
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Law and Government23
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Mechanical23
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Sociology and Anthropology21
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Public Safety and Security17
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Building and Construction14
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Foreign Language14
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Medicine and Dentistry12
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Therapy and Counseling12
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Physics9
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Philosophy and Theology8
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Food Production7
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Biology6
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
History and Archeology5
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Fine Arts3
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Oral Expression88
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Oral Comprehension75
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Speech Clarity75
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Speech Recognition75
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Written Comprehension72
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Written Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Deductive Reasoning63
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Near Vision56
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Fluency of Ideas53
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Problem Sensitivity53
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Category Flexibility50
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Inductive Reasoning50
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).

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Information Ordering50
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Memorization50
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Originality50
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Mathematical Reasoning47
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Number Facility47
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Speed of Closure47
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Far Vision44
The ability to see details at a distance.
Flexibility of Closure44
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Selective Attention44
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Time Sharing41
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Perceptual Speed38
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Visualization38
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Finger Dexterity35
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Visual Color Discrimination28
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Auditory Attention25
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Control Precision25
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Hearing Sensitivity25
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Multilimb Coordination25
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Trunk Strength25
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Depth Perception22
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Arm-Hand Steadiness0
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Dynamic Strength0
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Extent Flexibility0
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Manual Dexterity0
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Rate Control0
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Reaction Time0
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Response Orientation0
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Spatial Orientation0
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
Wrist-Finger Speed0
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships86
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Getting Information67
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates63
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work63
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization61
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Selling or Influencing Others59
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others57
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems51
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Working with Computers51
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Developing Objectives and Strategies49
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards43
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Performing Administrative Activities43
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.

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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge42
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Analyzing Data or Information41
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events40
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others39
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Processing Information39
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Scheduling Work and Activities39
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Thinking Creatively39
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others38
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings38
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Documenting/Recording Information37
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others37
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People35
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Developing and Building Teams33
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Assisting and Caring for Others31
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment30
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public28
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Training and Teaching Others28
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information26
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Coaching and Developing Others25
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials20
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Performing General Physical Activities20
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources18
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates16
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Handling and Moving Objects14
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Controlling Machines and Processes12
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Staffing Organizational Units10
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment4
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment3
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment2
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Perseverance100
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Social Orientation94
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Self-Confidence79
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Achievement Orientation77
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Dependability73
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Attention to Detail67
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Initiative65
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Intellectual Curiosity62
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Adaptability60
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Self-Control57
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Optimism54
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Stress Tolerance54
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.

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Integrity53
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Cooperation51
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Leadership Orientation51
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity48
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Innovation46
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Empathy42
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Sincerity33
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Cautiousness23
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Enterprising71
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Conventional69
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative36
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Social35
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Realistic30
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Artistic7
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day100%
Telephone Conversations
- Every day100%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom73%
- Some freedom25%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day83%
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours79%
- 40 hours21%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others57%
- Contact with others most of the time43%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Every day76%
- Once a week or more but not every day14%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important49%
- Very important42%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom61%
- Some freedom17%
- Limited freedom11%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important40%
- Very important48%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results35%
- Important results50%
- Minor results13%
Time Pressure
- Every day27%
- Once a week or more but not every day49%
- Once a month or more but not every week14%

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Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important28%
- Very important29%
- Important40%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important64%
- Fairly important23%
- Not important at all12%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day52%
- Once a week or more but not every day20%
- Never23%
Level of Competition
- Extremely competitive44%
- Highly competitive20%
- Slightly competitive34%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day42%
- Once a week or more but not every day15%
- Once a month or more but not every week18%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Every day40%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Never21%
Conflict Situations
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day42%
- Once a month or more but not every week29%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Every day15%
- Once a week or more but not every day45%
- Once a month or more but not every week28%
Spend Time Sitting
- More than half the time59%
- Less than half the time33%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility13%
- High responsibility14%
- Moderate responsibility40%
- Limited responsibility19%
- No responsibility14%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Every day34%
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never38%
Physical Proximity
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)26%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Every day23%
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a year or more but not every month15%
- Never38%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important23%
- Important25%
- Fairly important15%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Every day13%
- Once a week or more but not every day25%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never30%
Spend Time Standing
- More than half the time23%
- About half the time27%
- Less than half the time50%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility22%
- High responsibility13%
- Limited responsibility41%
- No responsibility23%
Consequence of Error
- Extremely serious11%
- Serious16%
- Fairly serious44%
- Not serious at all19%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never50%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually23%
- Never56%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Never63%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
- Once a year or more but not every month45%
- Never22%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Every day12%
- Once a month or more but not every week12%
- Once a year or more but not every month22%
- Never45%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- About half the time35%
- Less than half the time50%
- Never16%
Degree of Automation
- Highly automated19%
- Moderately automated14%
- Slightly automated32%
- Not at all automated36%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- More than half the time11%
- About half the time23%
- Less than half the time22%
- Never42%
Public Speaking
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Once a month or more but not every week18%
- Once a year or more but not every month23%
- Never44%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month42%
- Never46%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never64%
Work Schedules
- Irregular (changes with weather conditions, production demands, or contract duration)40%
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)60%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- More than half the time21%
- Less than half the time14%
- Never65%
Exposed to High Places
- Every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Never75%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Not important at all67%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never66%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a week or more but not every day13%
- Never80%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Once a month or more but not every week24%
- Never76%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time30%
- Never70%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never85%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time25%
- Never75%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never80%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
- Never85%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never95%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Less than half the time13%
- Never87%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never97%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never99%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree
Some college, no degree
High school diploma or equivalent

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Customer relationship management CRM software
Act!, ActionWare, Salesforce software, SAP Sybase SQL Anywhere
Video conferencing software
LogMeIn GoToMeeting, Zoom
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Infor ERP SyteLine, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle PeopleSoft, SAP software
Data base user interface and query software
Amazon Web Services AWS software, FileMaker Pro, Microsoft Access, Oracle Database
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook
Analytical or scientific software
IBM SPSS Statistics, SAS, StataCorp Stata
Accounting software
Intuit QuickBooks, Tax software
Enterprise application integration software
Enterprise application integration EAI software, IBM InfoSphere DataStage
Office suite software
Google Workspace software, Microsoft Office software
Data base management system software
Apache Hadoop, Teradata Database
Sales and marketing software
Google Ads, HubSpot software
Transaction security and virus protection software
McAfee, NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
Project management software
Khameleon, Microsoft Project
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Access software
Citrix cloud computing software
Document management software
Microsoft SharePoint
Development environment software
Microsoft Azure software
Desktop publishing software
Microsoft Publisher
Video creation and editing software
YouTube
Network conferencing software
LogMeIn GoToWebinar
Operating system software
Linux
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Network security and virtual private network VPN equipment software
Virtual private networking VPN software
Business intelligence and data analysis software
MicroStrategy
Object or component oriented development software
R
Internet browser software
Web browser software
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software
Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Web page creation and editing software
LinkedIn
Data mining software
Google Analytics
Calendar and scheduling software
Scheduling software
Information retrieval or search software
LexisNexis

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Negotiate prices or other sales terms.
Contact current or potential customers to promote products or services.
Sell products or services.
Gather customer or product information to determine customer needs.
Prepare sales or other contracts.
Process sales or other transactions.
Maintain records of customer accounts.
Answer customer questions about goods or services.
Estimate costs or terms of sales.
Explain technical product or service information to customers.
Demonstrate products to consumers.
Discuss design or technical features of products or services with technical personnel.

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Develop content for sales presentations or other materials.
Recommend products or services to customers.
Arrange delivery of goods or services.
Maintain records of sales or other business transactions.
Prepare financial documents, reports, or budgets.
Identify potential customers.
Share sales-related or market information with colleagues.
Coordinate sales campaigns.
Advise customers on the use of products or services.
Verify accuracy of records.
Verify customer credit information.
Study product information to acquire professional knowledge.
Distribute promotional literature or samples to customers.
Stock products or parts.
Attend events to develop professional knowledge.
Monitor market conditions or trends.
Monitor sales activities.
Deliver promotional presentations to current or prospective customers.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Technical Sales Representative
Technical Sales Specialist

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology