Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023 (2023)

You are the seller.

You use your skills to sell products or services to customers and businesses.

But when it comes to creating a compelling resume, you are confused.

How to properly make a sales representative's CV?

It's no different than a resume for any other profession, right?

Fortunately, this guide has all the answers. In fact, we'll walk you through the simple step-by-step processcreate a sales resume witherg stonedconversion rate.

In particular, we treat:
  • An example of a completed resume that works
  • How to write a sales representative resume that will fill your interview journal
  • How to make a sales rep resume stand out [with top tips and tricks]

Before we get into the finer details, here's onesales resume example, made of our ownonline resume builder:

Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023 (1)

Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023 (2)

Create yours now

Looks good, doesn't it?! Follow the steps below to create a sales rep resume that scores similar to the example above.

Are you applying for another position? Check out our related resume examples here:

  • Sales employee resume
  • Marketing manager resume
  • marketing CV

How to format a sales rep resume

Before you impress the recruiter with your vast sales experience, you need to choose the best format.

Basically, you need to make your resume easy to read.

You'll also want to highlight your strengths, which depend on choosing the right format for your specific situation.

If you want to impress,reverse chronologyresume formatis recommended. It basically puts your newest and most outstanding strengths at the top, allowing the recruiter to see your worth right away. We recommend starting with thisformat.

Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023 (3)

The following CV formats also receive our approval:

  • functional resume- If you are confident in your sales skills but lack experience, this resume format is recommended
  • Combined CV- Combine "functional" and "reverse chronology" formats, use this format if you are an experienced sales rep

Once you've chosen a format, you'll need yoursresume layout.

Use a sales representative resume template

Here's the brutal truth -

You won't get a job in sales if your resume isn't formatted properly.

It needs to be scanned by both humans and robots.

You can use Word, but the resume format can fall apart after one change.

(Video) How to create a WINNING Tech Sales Resume: Full Guide (2023)

Involve a sales representative if you want to avoid formatting issuesresume template.

What to include in a sales representative's resume

The most important sections in a sales representative's CV are:

  • Experience
  • Contact details
  • Skills
  • Education

Do you want to go a step further? You can also add these optional sections:

  • Awards and certificates
  • Talen
  • interests

Sounds great, but what should we write in each of these sections?

Read on to find out how.

Want to know more about resume sections? Check out our guide onWhat to put on your resume.

Unlike sales presentations, this section doesn't require panache.

But it has to be factual.

One misplaced number can completely ruin your connection chances.

Zcontact details sectionit must contain:

  • First name and last name
  • title– Match it with the job description. In this case "Sales Representative"
  • Phone number– Check it several times
  • E-mail address- Use a professional email address (firstname.lastname@gmail.com) and not your childhood email address (timloveshamsters@gmail.com)
  • (Optional) Location– Applying for a job abroad? Include your location and whether you are open to moving.
Correct example:
  • Phillip Green - sales representative. 101-358-6095. filgreen@gmail.com
Invalid example:
  • Phillip Green jako superoperator. 101-358-6095. verkoperphil@gmail.com

How to write a sales representative's summary or objective

Just like a customer looks at the products on the shelf, a recruiting manager will spend just a few seconds reviewing each resume.

This fact, while disturbing, underscores the importance of the resume, which has a big impact in the first few sentences.

But how can you do it?

Well, using a resume summary or objective.

These are short, concise paragraphs that appear at the top of your resume, just below your contact details.

Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023 (4)

But what is the difference between these two types and which one should you choose?

ASummarizing everythingis 2-4 sentences summarizing your experience and professional achievements.

Sales representative example summary
  • An experienced sales representative with extensive experience in managing sales for a diverse clientele. Looking for solid sales skills and extensive technological knowledge to become a senior sales representative at Random Technology Store. Notable achievements include achieving over $250,000 in sales each fiscal quarter, maintaining relationships with over 15 major contracting companies, and increasing gross profit by 42% from 2017-2019.

Aresume targetis a snapshot in 2-4 sentences of what you want to achieve professionally.

Sales Representative CV Example Purpose
  • A motivated person with passion and extensive knowledge of game technology is looking for a new representative for the Random Technology Store. Experience includes working as a salesperson to help customers find products, answer inventory questions, and promote a retail pricing program.

Which one is the best, summative or objective?

Whether you choose a summary or a goal depends on your experience as a sales representative. Those with a strong history on the sales floor should go with onesummary summaryy, while those who have sales skills but no industry experience should choose target.

(Video) HOW TO WRITE A SALES RESUME - 5 TIPS

pro tip
  • As a seller, you know that benefits sell. Therefore, explain how your experience and skills will help the company.

How to make your sales experience stand out

The recruiter is looking for someone who can sell.

And when we say sell, we mean itFOR SALE.

The easiest way to prove you can do ithe was selling ice cream to the Eskimosis with youexperience.

This is the best way to organize your work experience section:

  • Job title/name
  • company name
  • Data
  • Responsibilities and performance
Here is an example:

Sales Representative

WeSellCars Sp.

03.2015 - 06.2020

  • Reached over $250,000 in sales each fiscal quarter
  • Maintaining relationships with over 15 large contracting companies
  • Increase in gross profit by 42% from 2017 to 2019
  • Conducting and presenting all product promotions of the company

To truly sell your value, focus on your best results, not your daily tasks.

Instead of saying:

"Sales Advantage"

Participation:

"More than $250,000 in sales made each fiscal quarter."

Simply put, the first statement is too vague. It shows that you were responsible for the sale, but it doesn't say whether you actually sold anything or not.

The second statement shows that you were able to sellA LOTand consistently too. Hard numbers that prove your skill - can't argue with that!

What if you have no work experience?

Maybe you've graduated and are looking for your first job in sales?

Or maybe you have experience in sales positions, but never as a sales representative?

Don't worry -

List any previous job duties that are most relevant to the job description.

Even if you didn't have an official representativepositiondoes not mean that you do not have the relevant experience or skills.

just finished? Then be sure to check out oursStudent Resume Guide!

Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023 (5)

Use Action Words to Resume Sales POP!

  • "Made"
  • "worked"
  • "Managed"

… are all common words that the recruiter encounters over and over again.

However, you want to separate your resume from your competition, which means using itwords of powerto highlight your achievements:

(Video) Resume Pro Breaks Down a PERFECT Sales Resume With Examples | Indeed Career Tips

  • conceptualized
  • Some
  • formulated
  • Initiated
  • Cave

How to correctly list your education

Then it's time to talk about your education.

Depending on the position you are applying for, you may need a university degree or high school diploma.

People with impressive sales records may not have to impress with their education.

There is nothing complicated in this section, just provide the basics in the following format:

  • Type and field of study
  • University name
  • He studied for years
  • GPA, honors and relevant courses.
Here's what it should look like:

Bachelor's degree in sales management strategy

University of Michigan

2012 - 2016

  • Relevant Courses: Sales Forecasting and Budgeting, Developing Strategic Relationships with Key Accounts, Sales Change Management, Developing and Leveraging Customer Information
  • average rating: 3.8

We understand that you may still have questions. If so, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

What if I haven't graduated yet?

  • Whether you have completed your sales or are still studying, you should still list each year of your education so far

Do I have to enter secondary education?

  • Just add your highest education, which is likely to be your high school education if you didn't go to college

What is more important, my education or experience?

  • When it comes to sales, your experiences matter the most, so they are the most important.

Be sure to check out our guidehow to put education on resume.

15 most important sales resume skills

WinnerSales Representativecan showcase their talents through the number of sales they make.

However -

You won't even get to this stage if you don't list the relevant skills on your resume.

Here are some of the most common sales skills recruiters look for:

  • Product knowledge
  • Creating reports
  • Time management
  • Product presentation
  • Contract handling
  • Close the sale
  • teamwork
  • search
  • Empathy
  • Speaking in public
  • Exaggeration
  • To listen
  • Troubleshooting
  • Losing conflicts
  • Configurable

Here's a more comprehensive onelist of over 100 skills you must have this year.

What else can you include?

We have already discussed all the most important issuesresume section.

But ask yourself -

Have you done enough tomake a sale?

You need your CV for thisexceed!

Adding extra sections can really round you out as a candidate.

Awards and certificates

Did you win retailer of the month?

Have you taken courses to improve your sales skills?

If you answered yes to any of the above, be sure to include them in your CV!

(Video) 10 Sales Resume Examples + Writing Guide

Here is an example:

Awards and certificates

  • "The Art of Selling" - Coursera Certificate
  • "Master class of public speaking" - MadeUpUniversity

Talen

As a sales employee, you come into contact with a diverse clientele.

Therefore, knowing other languages ​​can be useful.

Either way, being able to speak a second language is always an impressive skill for a hiring manager, so feel free to add a language section if you have the space.

Sort languages ​​by skill:

  • Original
  • Flowing
  • Qualified
  • Mediator
  • Simple

interests

This section only requires a sentence about what you like to do when you are not working.

This will help the hiring manager see what kind of person you are.

This section also adds a more personal touch to your resume.

Here's which oneyou might want to mention.

Add a cover letter to your resume

Want to increase your chances at an interview?

Add a cover letter to your resume.

Cover letters are still an important part of the recruitment process.

You see, a cover letter is specific and personal content.

Unlike a candidate who sends a generic resume to every company, a cover letter shows the hiring manager that youapprehensionabout working forthenbusiness.

Here is the winning formula:

Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023 (6)

You must complete the following sections:

Personal contact details

Your name, occupation, email address, phone number, location.

Recruitment manager contact details

Name, job title, location, email address

First paragraph

It's no secret that recruiters review applications. As such, the opening paragraph should be extremely powerful. Use concise language to specify:

  • The position you are applying for
  • A summary of your experience and best results so far

Body

Once you have piqued your reader's interest, you can delve into the following details:

  • Why did you choose this particular company?
  • What do you know about the company
  • How relevant are your most important skills at work
  • What similar industries or positions have you worked in before?

Closing a paragraph

  • Don't end the conversation abruptly, you should:
  • Round up the points in the paragraph containing the content
  • Thank your recruiting manager for the opportunity
  • Finish with a call to action. It's a good way to start a conversation. Simple"As soon as the opportunity arises, I'd like to talk about how I can help Company X"it will work

Formal greetings

Finish the letter professionally. Something like, "Cordial greetings" z "Honestly.

For more inspiration, read our step-by-step guidehow to write a cover letter.

Key Teaching Points

Congratulations!

If you have yoursSales skillsUsing the above advice, you should have successfully convinced the recruiter to the interview.

(Video) Write an Incredible Resume: 5 Golden Rules!

Before we leave, let's sum it all up:

  • Format your sales resume correctly. Prioritize reverse chronological format, then follow best practices for content layout
  • Start your resume with a summary or goal to get the recruiter interested
  • Highlight your best sales results instead of daily tasks
  • Use your sales skills to write a compelling cover letter

Recommended reading:

  • Richard Branson's one-page resume
  • What is your greatest achievement? [3 checked answers]
  • 101 Career Paths for Every Personality [Guidebook 2023]

FAQs

Sales Resume Example and Writing Guide for 2023? ›

For the majority of job-seekers, the best resume format in 2023 is the reverse-chronological resume format. This resume format involves listing your resume information (e.g. your work experience and your education) starting with the most recent one and going backward through relevant jobs, degrees, or qualifications.

What should a resume look like in 2023? ›

For the majority of job-seekers, the best resume format in 2023 is the reverse-chronological resume format. This resume format involves listing your resume information (e.g. your work experience and your education) starting with the most recent one and going backward through relevant jobs, degrees, or qualifications.

What is the best format for a sales resume? ›

Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout. Start your resume with a summary or objective to hook the recruiter. Highlight your top sales achievements, rather than your daily duties. Use your sales skills to write a convincing cover letter.

What is a professional summary for a resume for sales? ›

A sales resume summary is a two- to three-sentence statement that describes your most valuable skills, experience level and why the potential employer should consider you as a candidate. You typically add a sales summary at the top of your resume, right after your name and contact details.

How do I make my resume stand out for sales? ›

Tips To Create a Sales Resume That Stands Out From the Competition
  1. Stick to a Single Page.
  2. Use an Easily-Readable Resume Format and Design (Make Sure It's ATS-Friendly)
  3. Use a Template.
  4. Provide Data and Numbers To Quantify Your Experience.
  5. Use Keywords From the Job Description.
  6. Be Specific and Cut the Fluff.
Oct 3, 2022

What not to include in a resume 2023? ›

18 Things to Leave Off Your Resume in 2023
  • An objective statement. ...
  • A photo of yourself. ...
  • Irrelevant work experience. ...
  • Personal information. ...
  • Non-technical skills. ...
  • Lengthy paragraphs. ...
  • List of tasks and duties. ...
  • More than three bullet points.
Feb 26, 2023

How far back should a resume go? ›

Generally, experts recommend keeping about 10-15 years of work experience on your resume, but that guidance changes depending on your professional history. Your resume is one of the first things a potential employer sees about you.

How long should a sales resume be? ›

For most candidates, a resume should be only one page. Be brief and concise with anything you write on your resume. Customize your resume for the job you're applying for and include only relevant experience. If you've done everything right, you shouldn't get past one page.

What is a professional summary for a salesman? ›

A sales professional summary is a paragraph that highlights your experience, accomplishments and skills from past sales jobs. A powerfully-written sales professional summary is short, relevant and uses numbers to demonstrate your achievements.

What is a good objective statement for a sales resume? ›

“Motivated and detail-oriented sales professional with five years of supervisory experience seeking a management position. Seeking an opportunity to apply my advanced knowledge of sales and customer service and my experience with team-building and staff development.”

How do you write a catchy summary on a resume? ›

An effective resume summary follows this formula: Professional Title (if relevant) + Key Experiences (with the total number of years worked) + Top Achievements (preferably measurable results) + Top Skills/Expertise/Unique Values (relevant to the job and industry).

What is a good summary for resume sales representative? ›

A great sales representative resume example summary might be this: “Enthusiastic sales representative looking to use interpersonal skills and industrial supplies knowledge at Brown Manufacturing. 2+ years of sales experience include maintaining profitable client relationships and exceeding sales goals by 15%.”

What are the four basic skills of a sales representative? ›

Top 5 skills for a career in sales
  • Confidence.
  • Resilience.
  • Active listening.
  • Rapport building.
  • Entrepreneurial spirit.

How do you sell soft skills on a resume? ›

Go over your list of soft skills. Compare those traits to experience, projects, accomplishments and notable contributions on your resume. Select one of the best examples for each soft skill you wish to sell. Focus on actual events from memory.

What are 3 common resume mistakes? ›

The 10 Worst Resume Mistakes to Avoid
  • Typos and Grammatical Errors. ...
  • Lack of Specifics. ...
  • Attempting the "One–Size–Fits–All" Approach. ...
  • Highlighting Duties Instead of Accomplishments. ...
  • Going on Too Long or Cutting Things Too Short. ...
  • Bad Summary. ...
  • No Action Verbs. ...
  • Leaving Off Important Information.

What skill is needed in 2023? ›

The top five skills in demand for 2023 are management, communication, customer service, leadership, and sales. The top five hard skills include software development, SQL, finance, Python, and Java.

What are 5 common mistakes on your resume you should avoid? ›

Here are just a few of the most common CV mistakes, according to five employers.
  • Having spelling errors and bad grammar. ...
  • Exaggerating the truth. ...
  • Poor formatting. ...
  • An unoriginal personal profile. ...
  • Not focusing on your achievements. ...
  • Making your CV too long. ...
  • Putting the wrong contact information.

What skills are employers looking for in 2023? ›

The 10 most in-demand skills for 2023
  • Management. Effective management is a key driver of employee engagement, productivity, and retention — all of which have suffered in recent years. ...
  • Communication. ...
  • Customer service. ...
  • Leadership. ...
  • Sales. ...
  • Project management. ...
  • Research. ...
  • Analytical skills.

How many pages should a resume be 2023? ›

A resume in 2023 should be either one-page or two-pages long, it will depend on your years of experience. Typically, a one-page resume is the most commonly submitted to a job application but it's normal for senior-level or managerial positions to receive professional resumes that are two-pages long.

Should I put my address on my resume? ›

The short answer is: No, you don't need to add an address to your resume. In today's workforce, most communication is done via email or phone. This makes the need for a full address outdated. Instead, you should list a general location on your resume.

What is the 30 second rule for resume? ›

Recruiters might screen hundreds of resumes each week. Some resumes do not get a second look and some might be flipped over quickly. Make this a general rule of thumb when tailoring your resume: it takes recruiters about 30 seconds to decide whether they want to review your profile in more detail or not.

What is the 2 page resume rule? ›

You can use a two-page resume if you have an extensive work history of over 10-15 years or if you're applying for an executive position. If you're a student or entry-level applicant, your best bet is to use a one-page resume.

What is the rule of thumb for resumes? ›

As a general rule of thumb, a resume should include one page for every 10 years of work experience. Recent graduates should not have two page resumes and director level professionals should not have four or five pages.

Is it OK to have your resume on 2 pages? ›

Allowing your resume to run longer than the standard one-page length may actually help you get further in the job hunting process, research suggests. A 2018 study found that employers preferred two-page resumes over one-page resumes, regardless of a candidate's job level.

What is the average time in a sales job? ›

The average sales rep tenure is 18, months according to HubSpot.

What is a good executive summary sales? ›

Your executive summary should include: The name, location, and mission of your company. A description of your company, including management, advisors, and brief history. Your product or service, where your product fits in the market, and how your product differs from competitors in the industry.

What's a headline in a resume? ›

A resume headline is a concise introduction to your work experience, skills, and professional background. Having a good headline will encourage recruiters to look deeply into your resume. A resume headline can also allow you to bypass applicant tracking systems & ensure that your CV gets read by a recruiter.

What is an example of a professional summary? ›

“Creative and people-oriented computer scientist with up to 2 years of working with tech startups. Advanced knowledge of software design principles and agile development principles. Led and managed a team of five in developing new software from concept to delivery.”

What is the most important skill a salesperson should have Why? ›

Effective Communication

Salespeople spend most of their time communicating not only with customers but also with internal teams. Effective communication – both written and verbal – are fundamental skills that your salespeople need to persuade customers into buying your product or service.

What is the best declaration in resume? ›

I hereby declare that all the information given above is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. All the information shared in the resume is correct, and I take full responsibility for its correctness. I solemnly declare that the information in this resume is true to the best of my knowledge and belief.

What is an example of a sales objective? ›

A common example of a sales objective is increasing revenue. This objective could focus on the revenue of your company's sales department as a whole, or it could be specific to the revenue that each individual sales representative generates.

How long should a resume be in 2023? ›

A resume in 2023 should be either one-page or two-pages long, it will depend on your years of experience. Typically, a one-page resume is the most commonly submitted to a job application but it's normal for senior-level or managerial positions to receive professional resumes that are two-pages long.

Will it be harder to find a job in 2023? ›

Overall, the job market is likely to slow down in 2023 as compared to the historically low unemployment rates of 2022. This is considered a return to normal economic conditions. However, new jobs will be created, and there will be opportunities for diligent job seekers to find work.

What is your career resolution for 2023? ›

Seek out new opportunities for growth and advancement. Consider changing careers or starting your own business. Set and achieve small goals to build confidence and momentum. Improve time management skills.

What are the worst resume mistakes? ›

The 10 Worst Resume Mistakes to Avoid
  • Typos and Grammatical Errors. ...
  • Lack of Specifics. ...
  • Attempting the "One–Size–Fits–All" Approach. ...
  • Highlighting Duties Instead of Accomplishments. ...
  • Going on Too Long or Cutting Things Too Short. ...
  • Bad Summary. ...
  • No Action Verbs. ...
  • Leaving Off Important Information.

Which of the following should not be on your resume? ›

Personal details. There's no need to include personal information on a resume such as your social security number, marital status, nationality, sexual orientation, or spiritual beliefs. In fact, it is illegal for employers to ask for these personal details.

Is it better to have a 1 page or 2 page resume? ›

Allowing your resume to run longer than the standard one-page length may actually help you get further in the job hunting process, research suggests. A 2018 study found that employers preferred two-page resumes over one-page resumes, regardless of a candidate's job level.

What is the most demanding skill in 2023? ›

The top five skills in demand for 2023 are management, communication, customer service, leadership, and sales. The top five hard skills include software development, SQL, finance, Python, and Java.

What do employers look for in a resume 2023? ›

Your passion

After all, employers want candidates that are going to be creative, proactive, and ready to give their all. As well as highlighting your accomplishments, it's important to give details of your passion projects, especially if you have a side hustle relevant to the role you're applying for.

What are 7 soft skills? ›

Soft skills are just as essential as hard skills for tech professionals. The right personality traits can help you excel at work. Highly valued soft skills include communication, time management, network building, empathy, critical thinking, being proactive and self-awareness.

Why is nobody hiring right now 2023? ›

Why is quiet hiring a 2023 trend? The current economic uncertainty is one reason why quiet hiring is a current trend, as companies may be more likely to slow down hiring, according to McRae. Another reason, she explained, is a widespread talent shortage.

What are the biggest job trends in 2023? ›

Education, government, health care and retail are among the industries where hiring has maintained its momentum, and are poised for continued growth in 2023.

What is quiet quitting job? ›

Quiet quitting doesn't actually refer to quitting a job—it means completing one's minimum work requirements without going above and beyond or bringing work home after hours.

Videos

1. How To Write An INCREDIBLE Resume: 2023 TEMPLATE INCLUDED!
(Professor Heather Austin)
2. MBA Resume Examples That Got into Ivy League & INSEAD + Writing Guide
(BeMo Academic Consulting Inc.)
3. THE PERFECT RESUME IN 15 MINUTES OR LESS! 2023 TEMPLATE INSIDE!
(Professor Heather Austin)
4. How to write a sales resume (tips to get you that job)
(Resume․io)
5. How To Write A MIND-BLOWING Resume With ChatGPT - FULL TUTORIAL With TEMPLATE
(Professor Heather Austin)
6. How to Write The BEST Resume in 2023 - NEW Template and Examples INCLUDED
(Professor Heather Austin)

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