Essential Things You Should Know About Inside Sales

A career in sales is one of the most lucrative jobs, especially if you are driven, hardworking, and ambitious. Unlike other occupations with a pre-determined salary, no matter how hard you work, being in sales allows you to take control of your earnings. Your income level mostly depends on the amount of effort you put in. Work really hard to achieve your targets, and you will be compensated accordingly.

If you are interested in building a name in sales but dislike face-to-face interaction and constant travel, know that inside sales is an option. Are you wondering what is inside sales? Here are essential things you need to know about this type of sales operation so that you can decide if this career path is right for you:

Inside Sales vs. Outside Sales 

Also known as “remote/virtual sales,” inside sales is a type of sale transaction that is carried out through phone calls, emails, or websites. Outside sales, on the other hand, is the traditional selling method wherein the sales representative travels to where the client is to complete a face-to-face deal. 

Remote sales and outside sales professionals require similar skills to do their work effectively. They are both driven, love working with people, and have above average communication skills. Note, however, that those who do inside sales must utilize various applications and technology to compensate for lack of personal interaction. In contrast, outside sales reps merely rely on the way they talk and interact with clients.

Truths Behind the Common Myths About Inside Sales

Another strategy to help you acquire a better understanding of what is inside sales is to point out what it is not. Below are the most common misconceptions about remote sales and the truths behind them:

  • Inside sales is the same as telemarketing.

Perhaps the only similarity between telemarketing and inside sales is their use of the telephone. Inside sales representatives build relationships to make a sale, focusing on high-end clients and large businesses. Telemarketers, however, call ordinary consumers once to sell a product or service.

  • You do not need any preparation to do inside sales since you have a ready script.

Remote sales professionals do not use any script. They are professionals who plan their approach and implement various sales strategies to close a deal.

  • Inside sales representatives are not customer service reps. 

While remote sales representatives exert effort to satisfy their customers and build a loyal following, their work is, first and foremost, selling. Customer service reps, however, assist customers with their queries, complaints, and other concerns. 

Benefits of Working in Inside Sales

Given the business structure of inside sales, this job offers the following advantages that are difficult to experience in traditional sales model and other positions:

  • You can work from home or any location that you prefer for as long as you have the means to connect and communicate with your clients. 
  • You have full control of your schedule and activities since you do not have to travel or attend sales conferences typical of outside sales reps.
  • You can work with a team of like-minded people who can help motivate you to work harder and remain persistent.
  • Your career advancement relies solely on your performance and not on who you know and how friendly you are with your supervisor.

Inside sales is a promising career path, especially if you are the type who relies on your ability and will to succeed. Hopefully, the information above will help you decide whether you have the knack for inside sales and if this is the best career choice for your situation. Weigh your options, and remember to give it your all regardless of what you wish to pursue.