Telesales – Job Description

Telesales is a tough but rewarding career. Selling to businesses or strangers in their homes is not everyone’s idea of fun, but there’s a buzz to be had from working under pressure to tight targets.

Your work will involve phoning potential clients to either sell them products or carry out market research.

You will have tough targets to meet. The job calls for direct sales, securing a trial period for a product or service or getting a customer to agree to a further visit from a sales team member.

Confidence, a persuasive manner, patience and politeness are vital attributes.  You’ll need to have a positive, can-do kind of attitude, the ability to think on your feet and show initiative.

Feel crushed by the slightest hint of rejection or rudeness? Then telesales is most definitely not for you.

Personality often trumps academic qualifications. Some colleges offer NVQs and SVQs in telesales. The Institute of Sales and Marketing Management also runs courses in sales and marketing.

Browse our current vacancies in: Sales, Retail and Business Development

Other recommended resources:

Direct Marketing Association
An organisation aimed at improving the Direct Marketing industry through access to research, inspiration and legal advice.

Contact Centres & Telemarketing Council
A council of the Direct Marketing Association offering information and support for those employed in Contact Centres and Telemarketing.

Chartered Institute for Marketing
A chartered mark for professionals involved in all fields of marketing, including telemarketing.

Technology Marketing Magazine
An magazine resource offering information, articles and news about all aspects of the industry.

Tactical Sales Training
An online training resource offering courses in telesales.