What is a Sales Consultant? How to Become a Sales Consultant

Many people imagine sales consultants as opening the phone book or buying a list, calling prospects, and closing the deal—rinse and repeat. Then, top sales reps become managers, and senior managers become executives. Eventually, some venture into entrepreneurship and start their own sales training or consulting business.

But, is that all about sales consulting? Is there anything that you miss out on this interesting and lucrative career?

This guide will give you the necessary answers. Let’s explore what a sales consultant is, what a sales consultant does, and how to become a sales consultant!

What is a sales consultant?

A sales consultant is a salesperson who uses a consultative approach to promote its product or service. As a sales consultant, your primary job duties are similar to those of a traditional sales representative, including providing information about and selling products and services to customers.

Employers sometimes prefer sales consultants over sales reps when the product or service is technical, complicated, or customized. In some circumstances, a sales consultant can alternatively refer to an outside advisor hired by a client or company to review their sales operations.

Sales consultants typically work full-time for consulting companies, while others might work directly with firms as contracted consultants. Salaries for sales consultants vary depending on the individual level of education, certificates, skills, and experience, as well as the location, size, and type of employer.

Sales Consultant Salary:

According to Glassdoor data, the average salary for a sales consultant position will range from $97,000 to $178,000 per year depending on the years of experience.

Related topic: What is a Sales Engineer?

What does a sales consultant do?

A sales consultant applies their skills and experience to help businesses increase sales by suggesting specific improvements in the company’s processes. A sales consultant might work for a consulting firm or could be self-employed and work directly with customers on a contract basis.

Other tasks of a sales consultant may include:

• Identify prospects by using business directories, following leads from existing clients, and attending relevant trade shows and conferences
• Contact prospective and existing customers to discuss their needs and explain how specific products and services can meet these needs
• Schedule sales appointments with prospective and current customers
• Emphasize product features that will meet customers’ requirements and exhibit product competitive advantages over other rivals
• Negotiate prices, terms of sale, as well as service agreements
• Work with the marketing team to help improve brand awareness and online presence
• Meet other associates and sales consultants to discuss innovative ways to sell to customers effectively with examples of programmatic advertising.
• Constantly find new ways to make products and services more attractive to existing and prospective customers. For example, if you sell AZ-900 Exam Dumps, you would always need to update with the latest questions to satisfy learners.
• Demonstrate advanced sales knowledge, and keep up to date on all company policies and procedures, as well as the changing needs of customers
• Follow up with customers to ensure that they’re satisfied with their purchases and to answer any questions or concerns.

Sales consultant requirements

Education

A highschool diploma is sufficient for many positions, primarily selling nontechnical or nonscientific products. However, those selling technical and scientific products typically must have a bachelor’s degree.

A bachelor’s degree in business management, business administration, marketing, advertising, or communications is typically strongly preferred for most sales consultant positions. Also, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree is beneficial in furthering your career.

Training

Sales consultants are typically required to have amassed a specific amount and quality of work experience in sales, marketing, or advertising. Those without long work experience should be prepared to participate in an entry-level job to receive valuable training courses.

Many companies have formal training courses for beginning sales consultants that last up to 1 year. New employees can be trained by going along with experienced workers on their sales calls. As they get familiarity with the firm’s products and customers, new workers gain more responsibility until they eventually control their own territory. This hands-on approach facilitates effective sales training for employees, enabling them to learn directly from experienced peers while progressively assuming greater roles. To enhance their professional image and marketing materials, many sales consultants turn to resources like depositphotos for high-quality visuals. These stock images can be used to create compelling presentations, brochures, and digital content that showcase products and services effectively, helping consultants make a strong impression on potential clients during their sales pitches.

Certifications, licenses, and registrations

Certifications, licenses, and registrations illustrate the validation of a professional’s qualifications to current and future employers. They also enable sales consultants to gain more practical knowledge of their daily responsibilities, improve their expertise, and continue advancing their careers.

Some of the most popular certifications for sales professionals include:

• Certified Professional Sales Person (CPSP). This program is offered by the National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP), which is designed to enhance sales professionals’ skills. CPSP focuses on how to move clients through sales stages by using modern sales strategies, creating habits that drive success, and practicing the little-known techniques of the top 1% of sales professionals worldwide. This certification can be obtained by enrolling and completing the program with the NASP.
• Certified Inside Sales Professional (CISP). Provided by the American Association of Inside Sales Professionals (AA-ISP), the CISP program consists of 10 rigorous courses, and a role-play exam of live sales calls with prospects. The certification is valid for three years. Holders have to renew the certification by completing at least five continuing sales education (CSE) credits.
• Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP). This Sales Management Association certification includes a series of e-learning courses or in-person workshops, a comprehensive exam, and particular role-related requirements.

In addition, many in this occupation have either the Certified Sales Professional (CSP) or Certified Professional Manufacturers’ Representative (CPMR) certification, both offered by the Manufacturers’ Representatives Educational Research Foundation (MRERF). Certifications generally involve completing formal technical training and passing an exam. Besides, the CPMR requires 10 hours of continuing education every annual in order to maintain certification.

Skills

A sales consultant needs strong hard skills for products or services they support, as well as soft skills to connect with people. By having these skills, they can close a deal that creates value for both their company and the customer.

To be specific, here are some essential skills for a sales consultant to be successful:

• Communication skills. Sales consultants must be able to communicate persuasively and effectively with prospects, clients, and colleagues.
• Interpersonal skills. Sales consultants need to work well with many types of people. They must be able to build healthy relationships with clients and other members of the sales team. While some sales consultants have a natural ability to connect with a prospective client quickly, others can learn techniques to make this easier.
• Time management. Arranging meetings, phone calls, and presentations require sales consultants to manage time effectively.
• Public speaking. A sales consultant needs to be self-confident and articulate when delivering a persuasive presentation or a product demonstration. Additionally, making a call to a potential customer who is not expecting to be contracted, or cold calling, requires confidence and composure.
• Customer service skills. Sales consultants must be able to listen to the customer’s needs and concerns before and after the deal.
• Organizational skills. Managing schedules and meeting deadlines requires sales consultants to be good at keeping records and remaining organized for maximum efficiency.
• Technical skills. Sales consultants must be proficient in using computers, mobile devices, and sales management or customer relationship management (CRM) software programs. Some companies use specific software programs to manage leads, document all client information, send and receive digital contracts and more.

How to become a sales consultant

After the sales consultant job’s necessary information, do you feel interested and excited about becoming a professional sales consultant?

In this part, we will guide you through the most common steps to pursue your career as a sales consultant.

1. Better understand the profession

Sales consultants typically work on a sales floor, where they approach customers, determine their needs, and suggest products or services meet those needs. Consultants must be well-versed in the technical functions and specifications of the products they sell, as they often demonstrate items, such as smartphones, to customers. A small tip to understand this position is to thoroughly read job descriptions (JDs) of companies and organizations.

2. Find your niche

For sales consultants, there is no one-size-fits-all track for landing a role. Most sales consultants have expertise in particular or specialized industries. To determine your own area of expertise, think about which areas you’re most interested in and experienced.

3. Pursue a relevant education

Most job openings for retail sales consultants have low or no education requirements, but a highschool diploma or the equivalent is often preferred. However, a 2-year or 4-year college degree is advisable for those who want to achieve management positions in the sales field eventually.

Depending on your chosen niche, pursue a degree in relevant discipline. Conduct research on your industry’s education requirements and pursue an education to build your knowledge in the field and meet the education requirements.

4. Gain work experience

As an aspiring sales consultant, you should gain industry experience in sales, business development, and marketing as much as possible. Many sales consultants start by working as junior sales associates or other entry-level sales positions. Then, they can move to leadership roles, which include mentoring and training new sales associates.

5. Build your network

A career as a sales consultant is special and unique in that it often relies on an extensive professional network to form and grow a client base. Networking with other business professionals can help sales consultants meet potential employers and clients.

Therefore, you should consider participating in networking events to meet net contracts. You can also ask your colleagues and other acquaintances to introduce you to their contracts.

6. Strengthen your soft skills

Successful sales consultants possess an expanded set of soft skills that generally include communication skills, negotiation, persuasion, problem-solving, client services, and public speaking. So, don’t stop improving yourself day by day!

Read more:

• What Is A Sales Funnel?

Industries That Sales Consultants Usually Work In

Technology Sales

In this sector, sales consultants focus on selling digital products, often software, to individuals or businesses. They assist companies in positioning their technology offerings in the market and differentiating them from competitors.

Financial Services

Sales consultants in financial services advise and guide financial institutions and advisors on optimizing their services. They may help in packaging financial services or portfolios more effectively to meet the diverse needs of clients.

In some cases, selling to big financial institutions might not result in immediate cash flow due to longer payment terms, but will surely add to your net credit sales.

Manufacturing

Within manufacturing, sales consultants play a crucial role in boosting sales and profitability. They provide market research to identify potential new customers, contribute to sales forecasting, and assist in developing strategies to increase market share.

Healthcare

Sales consultants in healthcare collaborate with medical supply manufacturing companies. They may help in creating tailored sales pitches for different client types, such as large hospitals or small private practices.

Automotive

Automotive sales consultants support car dealerships in enhancing their sales strategies. They may assist in identifying potential customers likely to make a purchase and help dealerships overcome challenges in sales.

Other Sector

Sales consultants are versatile and can be found in various other sectors, including retail, hospitality, telecommunications, education, transportation, government, non-profits, and charities. Regardless of the industry, their role involves helping clients understand and capitalize on market trends, improving customer satisfaction, and implementing effective sales strategies.

Career Progression of Sales Consultants

Entry-Level Sales Role

• Position: Sales Representative or Sales Associate

• Responsibilities: Learning the basics of sales, understanding products/services, and building foundational selling skills.

• Years of Experience: 0-1 year

Intermediate-Level Sales Role

• Position: Sales Executive or Account Executive

• Responsibilities: Managing large accounts, handling more complex sales situations, and taking on additional responsibilities in client relationship management.

• Years of Experience: 1-3 years

Senior Sales Role

• Position: Senior Sales Consultant or Sales Manager

• Responsibilities: Leading a sales team, setting sales targets, developing sales strategies, and overseeing the overall sales process.

• Years of Experience: 7-9 years

Salary Range of A Sales Consultant

• Entry-Level Sales Role (0-1 year of experience): $68,000 to $120,000 per year
• Intermediate-Level Sales Role( 1-3 years of experience): $77,000 to $138,000 per year
• Senior Sales Role (4-6 years of experience): $88,000 to $162,000 per year
• Over 7 years of experience: $94,000 to $175,000 per year

FAQs about Sales Consulting

1. Is Sales Consulting a Good Job?

Answer: Yes, sales consulting can be a rewarding career for individuals who enjoy building relationships, have strong persuasion skills, and thrive in a dynamic and competitive environment. It offers financial rewards through commissions and ample growth opportunities.

2. Do You Need a Degree To Become a Sales Consultant?

Answer: No, a formal degree is not always required to become a sales consultant. While having a degree can be beneficial, practical experience, relevant skills, and a strong understanding of sales techniques are often equally important.

3. Do Sales Consultants Earn a Commission?

Answer: Yes, many sales consultants earn a commission as part of their compensation. The commission is often based on the sales they generate, providing an additional incentive for high performance.

4. How Long Does It Take To Become a Sales Consultant?

Answer: The time it takes to become a sales consultant can vary. Generally, it may take one to two years of relevant sales experience to transition into a sales consulting role. However, additional training, certifications, and individual career paths can influence the timeline.

5. How Can You Prepare for a Sales Consultant Interview?

Answer: To prepare for a sales consultant interview:

• Research the company and its products/services.

• Understand the company’s target market and competitors.

• Be ready to articulate your understanding of the sales process.

• Showcase your experience in relationship-building and meeting sales targets.

• Prepare for common sales-related questions and be ready to provide examples of your successes.

• Demonstrate your communication and problem-solving skills.

The bottom line

Being a sales consultant is an exciting way to grow your career. While it has an attractive salary range, it can also help you promote your personal skills a lot.

So, do you think being a sales consultant is appealing? What do you think about this position? You can share your opinions with us in the comment box below!