Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products — Tasks

Task statements

• Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, product uses, and credit terms.
• Recommend products to customers, based on customers' needs and interests.
• Estimate or quote prices, credit or contract terms, warranties, and delivery dates.
• Consult with clients after sales or contract signings to resolve problems and to provide ongoing support.
• Prepare sales contracts and order forms.
• Provide customers with product samples and catalogs.
• Monitor market conditions, product innovations, and competitors' products, prices, and sales.
• Perform administrative duties, such as preparing sales budgets and reports, keeping sales records, and filing expense account reports.
• Contact regular and prospective customers to demonstrate products, explain product features, and solicit orders.
• Identify prospective customers by using business directories, following leads from existing clients, participating in organizations and clubs, and attending trade shows and conferences.
• Negotiate with retail merchants to improve product exposure, such as shelf positioning and advertising.
• Check stock levels and reorder merchandise as necessary.
• Plan, assemble, and stock product displays in retail stores, or make recommendations to retailers regarding product displays, promotional programs, and advertising.
• Negotiate details of contracts and payments.
• Prepare drawings, estimates, and bids that meet specific customer needs.
• Obtain credit information about prospective customers.
• Forward orders to manufacturers.
• Arrange and direct delivery and installation of products and equipment.