How To Find Sales Jobs

From retail to insurance, sales jobs are everywhere. But finding the right one requires some effort and planning. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Search job postings regularly. Newspaper classifieds and online job boards are great places to look for both local and national jobs. Keep up with the latest job opportunities by checking these sites every few days, if not daily.

Work your contacts. Networking is important in most career fields, but in sales, networking IS the job! Get the word out that you're job-hunting by emailing, calling, or grabbing some coffee with people on your contact list. The more people who know you're back on the job market, the better.

Create a solid sales resume. Take some time to write and format a powerful, professional resume. Your resume should include your relevant work history and education, as well as awards, certifications, or special training. Use action-packed, results-oriented wording. If sales increased by more than 100 percent under your supervision at your last job, don't be modest about saying so. Finally, have someone proofread your resume for errors and effectiveness.

Order business cards. This is a no-brainer. When you're out meeting contacts, nothing says sales professional like placing a business card in their hand before parting ways. Not only should your card include your name, job description, and phone number, but in today's market you should also include an email address and website.

Create a professional online presence. To be competitive these days, you need to be listed on the web. This means that you need a website, perhaps with a blog, and social networking pages for professional use, so that potential employers and clients can easily find and contact you. Please note that personal "journal-style" blogs, MySpace ramblings, and pictures of your children do not qualify as professional sales media. You need to monitor your online reputation, because employers may check out potential job candidates on the Internet.