I’m sure you’ve heard the stereotypes about tech sales: big earners stressed beyond belief at quarter’s end, scrambling to close deals. But how true are these perceptions, and if they are accurate, is tech sales really worth it? While a high-paying tech sales salary is a major draw, investing in proper tech sales training can shape how successful and sustainable a career in tech sales becomes. In this article, we’ll dive into the realities of tech sales, examining stress levels, earning potential, and how challenging it is to break into the field.
Is Tech Sales a Stressful Job?
Tech sales can be a high-pressure job. One of the major sources of stress comes from the need to consistently meet quota. Many sales representatives are tasked with hitting specific numbers, which can fluctuate depending on the company’s goals, the market, and the particular quarter. The stress is amplified at the end of each quarter, when sales teams push to close deals to reach their goal. Missing quota can create anxiety for professionals at all levels, as it affects their compensation and job security.
This leads to the question many people ask: Is tech sales hard? The answer largely depends on an individual’s skills, temperament, and adaptability. For those who thrive under pressure and enjoy competition, tech sales can be rewarding. For others though, the constant performance driven environment can be exhausting.
A quick look at online communities like “I hate tech sales reddit" reveals that many people struggle with the stress and find it hard to maintain a positive work-life balance. Reading through these forums shows that while tech sales is undeniably stressful, the general consensus is that the paycheck makes it completely worth it
Do Tech Sales Make a Lot of Money?
One of the most attractive aspects of tech sales is the earning potential. Unlike many other careers, where salaries are capped, tech sales often comes with tech sales salary structures that include base pay and uncapped commissions. This means that the more you sell, the more you earn. It’s important to keep in mind that this high earning potential is not guaranteed. Earnings depend heavily on your ability to close deals and build strong client relationships. That said, those who can navigate the competitive nature of tech sales can see substantial financial benefits.
Is Tech Sales a High-Paying Job?
How does tech sales stack up against other careers in SaaS? While the base salary for tech sales jobs might not seem particularly high compared to roles like software engineers, the commission structure can significantly boost overall earnings. When you compare entry level roles, members of the sales team will, on average, make 33% more than their colleagues in a customer success role. Not only will sales people start out making more money, as you progress from an SDR to an AE, and eventually to leadership roles, your long term earning potential continues to increase. Thanks to bonuses, commissions, and stock options, top performing AEs and sales leaders can earn high six figure incomes. It doesn’t matter whether you aspire to lead a sales team or specialize in closing new logos, the tech sales career path offers many different paths to a high income.
Is It Hard to Get a Job in Tech Sales?
Breaking into tech sales can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Companies are looking for professionals with strong communication skills, grit, and the ability to quickly learn. While having a technical background can be a plus, it’s not a requirement. In fact, most tech sales professionals come from non-technical backgrounds.
Having the right tech sales training can also make a big difference in securing a job. Many companies offer training programs equipping entry-level employees with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. Certifications from programs like HubSpot or Salesforce can further boost your chances of landing a role. Along with a certification, developing a strong LinkedIn presence and leveraging professional connections can help you break into the field.
Conclusion
Tech sales can be a highly rewarding career for those who thrive in a competitive and performance driven environment. While there are stressors, such as meeting quotas and the challenges of maintaining a work life balance, the financial rewards, career growth, and flexibility often outweigh the negatives.
If you’re ready to explore tech sales further, check out the N.E.S.T. Academy for more information on how to get started in tech sales.
