Tech sales offers exciting opportunities for those who are passionate about solving customer problems and thriving in a fast paced environment. Whether you're just starting out or looking to switch careers, the path to becoming a tech salesperson may seem challenging. But with the right approach and tech sales training, landing a tech sales role is entirely achievable. In this article, we’ll break down how to get started in tech sales, how long the process should take, and different tech sales certifications to check out.
Can You Get a Tech Sales Job with No Experience?
The short answer is yes, you can get a tech sales job even if you have no prior experience. Many tech sales entry level positions are designed for individuals who are new to the field but show communication, relationship building, and problem solving abilities. If you can highlight these skills during the application and interview process, some companies will value those skills more than experience on a resume.
Once you land the job, most entry level roles provide on the job training. This means you can start with no experience and still build a successful career. The most common entry level position in tech sales is the Sales Development Representative (SDR). SDRs focus on prospecting, cold outreach, and setting appointments for account executives to close deals. Starting as an SDR is a great way to get your foot in the door if you have no experience.
How Do I Get My First Tech Sales Job?
The two most important things you can do to land your first tech sales job are to network effectively and to set yourself apart during the application process. Building relationships with industry professionals can open doors, and your network can provide valuable guidance, referrals, and insider information about job opportunities. Start by connecting with sales leaders on platforms like LinkedIn or engaging in communities like 'How to get into tech sales reddit'. It seems odd to turn to Reddit, but forums like these can often provide unique online networking opportunities in addition to LinkedIn.
When it comes to applying for entry level tech sales jobs, set yourself apart by showcasing the knowledge you’ve gained through certifications and taking the initiative to develop a strategy for the company you’re applying to. Develop a personalized outreach strategy based on what you discover about their customer’s challenges and needs. While it may not be perfect, this effort demonstrates your grit.
One way to truly stand out is by recording a video introduction where you express your interest in the position and share the outreach strategy you’ve developed for the company. This personalized approach shows that you’ve taken the time to think critically and can successfully execute cold outreach, one of the most important skills in entry level tech sales. Taking this extra step helps you outshine other applicants and signals to employers that you have what it takes to do the job.
How Do I Start Off in Tech Sales?
Once you've landed your first tech sales job, the key to success lies in how you approach your role. Here are the top things you need to focus on to start off well in tech sales:
- Learn the Industry and Your Prospects’ Problems: While it’s tempting to become a product expert, your priority as an SDR should be understanding the industry you’re selling to and the problems your prospects care about. It’s important to have a basic grasp of your product’s value and how it solves customer pain points, but you don’t need to be a product expert until you start running demos as an Account Executive. As an SDR, focus on becoming an expert in your prospect’s challenges, so you can tease out their pain points.
- Find a Mentor in the Company: One of the best ways to grow quickly in tech sales is by finding a mentor. This doesn’t have to be your manager; it could be someone who has previously excelled in your role or is currently performing at a high level. Emulate their strategies, learn what works for them, and then adapt those methods to fit your style. A mentor can offer invaluable advice and shortcuts to help you avoid common pitfalls.
- Give It All You Have: In the early stages of your SDR role, results might take time to materialize, but the effort you put in will set the foundation for your success. Be the person who goes all out. Show your team that you’re committed by putting in the most effort and leading in productive sales activities. Even if you have a slow start, a strong work ethic and dedication will be noticed and appreciated. On the other hand, a slow start combined with low effort will not reflect well on your long-term potential. Going all in from the beginning will help you gain traction faster and solidify your standing within the team.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Tech Sales?
The time it takes to learn tech sales varies depending on your background and the training programs you pursue. For someone with no prior experience, learning the foundational skills may take a few months. Structured programs can provide an accelerated path. The N.E.S.T. Academy is designed to take someone with no experience and have them in a commission earning SDR role within 8 weeks. Once you start in an SDR role, you’ll likely spend the first few months ramping up, learning about the company’s products, and refining your outreach techniques.
Regardless if you’re an SDR or an AE, the key to success in tech sales is continuous learning. Industries evolve rapidly, and sales professionals must stay on top of new trends, tools, and techniques to remain effective. Expect to spend the first year of your career mastering the basics, but remember that ongoing learning is part of the career.
Conclusion
If you're serious about starting your tech sales career, check out Ravenue's N.E.S.T. Academy, a program designed to help you land your first tech sales role and start earning commissions in as little as 6 weeks. Think you have what it takes?
