Breaking into tech sales can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach, it's a career that offers great opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out with no experience or transitioning from another field, there are practical steps you can take to get your foot in the door. In this article, we’ll explore how to get started, even without prior sales or tech experience, and whether a tech sales training certification is necessary for landing your first role.
How Do I Start Off in Tech Sales?
The first step in breaking into tech sales is figuring out which roles suit your interests and goals. Tech sales is a broad field, and just like when prospecting for the right customers, you need to narrow your focus. Don't try to fish the entire sea of opportunities, instead target specific roles that match your preferences.
For example, consider whether you’d prefer an in-office or remote role. If you want an in-office job, focus on companies in your area and skip applying to remote roles. Also, think about the types of products you’d find interesting. If you’re passionate about marketing, look for jobs selling attribution software or SEO platforms. Numbers-oriented? Then accounting or finance-related software might be more your speed.
Once you've zeroed in on a few potential roles, it’s time to go beyond submitting applications. Reach out directly to Business Development Managers and pitch yourself. Think of it as a demonstration of your cold-calling skills, a critical part of sales development. Even if there isn’t an open role, introduce yourself and express your interest in the company. This approach not only shows initiative but also mirrors how prospecting works in tech sales. Getting yourself on their radar can open doors down the line.
How to Get Into Tech Sales With No Sales Experience
Not having direct sales experience can seem like a barrier, but many of the skills you’ve developed in other roles can easily transfer to sales. The key is identifying and highlighting those transferable skills when applying for entry level tech sales jobs.
For example, if you’ve worked in customer service, you already have experience in communication and relationship-building, both of which are essential in sales. Project management roles teach time management and goal-setting, which also align well with SDR responsibilities. The bottom line is that sales isn’t just about experience; it’s about having the ability to connect with people, manage your time effectively, and meet targets. If you can demonstrate those abilities from other jobs, you’ll have a strong case for breaking into tech sales.
How to Get Into Tech Sales With No Tech Experience
Not having a tech background isn’t a dealbreaker. In fact, many people transition into tech sales from non-tech industries by leveraging their past experience in a different way. The key is aligning your existing skills with tech products that fit your previous industry knowledge.
For example, if you were a finance major or worked in accounting, you could target roles selling financial software. If you have experience in HR, then employee management platforms could be a natural fit for you. Matching your prior experience to the software you’ll be selling makes it easier to understand the product and speak the language of your prospects.
Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the jargon used in tech sales can make a big difference. Taking the time to learn key terms used in SaaS sales will help you sound more like a tech sales professional, even if you’re new to the field. If you want to go the extra mile, consider tech sales certifications to give you a leg up and demonstrate your commitment to learning the industry.
Do You Need a Certification to Be in Tech Sales?
No, you do not need a certification to land a job in tech sales. Many people get hired without any formal certification in tech sales. That said, if you don’t have much experience, whether in tech or in sales, a certification can help. It shows that you’re committed to learning the skills required for the job and can set you apart from other candidates.
Certifications can be particularly useful if you’re new to the industry and want to show employers that you’ve invested time in understanding the sales process and the product landscape. However, they are not a prerequisite for landing a tech sales role. Focus on what you bring to the table through past experiences and your willingness to learn, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities.
Conclusion
Breaking into tech sales doesn’t require a perfect background in sales or tech. It’s about finding the right fit, showcasing transferable skills, and demonstrating your ability to prospect and communicate effectively. If you’re serious about starting a career in tech sales and before Googling “tech sales bootcamp near me”, consider checking out the N.E.S.T. Academy. The Nest Academy will teach you the ropes and set you on the path for a lucrative tech sales salary.
