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Job outlook for software sales representatives in the United States
Software sales representative job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected software sales representative job growth rate is 4% from 2018-2028.
About 63,300 new jobs for software sales representatives are projected over the next decade.
Software sales representative salaries have increased 9% for software sales representatives in the last 5 years.
There are over 26,444 software sales representatives currently employed in the United States.
There are 146,618 active software sales representative job openings in the US.
The average software sales representative salary is $82,188.
Are software sales representative jobs in demand?
Software sales representative job and salary trends over time
Software sales representative jobs over time
Software sales representative job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 26,444 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 26,724 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 28,051 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 28,008 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 28,741 | 0.01% |
Average software sales representative salary over time
Software sales representative salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $82,188 | $39.51 | +3.6% |
| 2024 | $79,355 | $38.15 | +2.4% |
| 2023 | $77,474 | $37.25 | +2.7% |
| 2022 | $75,435 | $36.27 | --0.3% |
| 2021 | $75,660 | $36.38 | +2.5% |
Software sales representative jobs by state
Most common states for software sales representatives
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 356 | 51% |
| 2 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 442 | 42% |
| 3 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 1,175 | 40% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,418 | 35% |
| 5 | Wisconsin | 5,795,483 | 2,030 | 35% |
| 6 | Vermont | 623,657 | 210 | 34% |
| 7 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 2,035 | 33% |
| 8 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 2,843 | 32% |
| 9 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 1,346 | 32% |
| 10 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 987 | 32% |
| 11 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 678 | 32% |
| 12 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 340 | 32% |
| 13 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 920 | 31% |
| 14 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 1,988 | 30% |
| 15 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 3,710 | 29% |
| 16 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 1,432 | 29% |
| 17 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 379 | 28% |
| 18 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 1,208 | 27% |
| 19 | Delaware | 961,939 | 255 | 27% |
| 20 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,467 | 26% |
Most common cities for software sales representatives
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ashburn | 1 | 2% | $83,013 |
| 2 | Reston | 1 | 2% | $83,002 |
| 3 | Shreveport | 2 | 1% | $76,659 |
| 4 | Santa Monica | 1 | 1% | $96,637 |
| 5 | Atlanta | 1 | 0% | $65,111 |
| 6 | Baltimore | 1 | 0% | $84,602 |
| 7 | Dallas | 1 | 0% | $76,677 |
| 8 | Miami | 1 | 0% | $62,731 |
| 9 | New York | 1 | 0% | $83,203 |
| 10 | Scottsdale | 1 | 0% | $81,829 |
Software Sales Representative job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of software sales representative experts
University of Maryland - College Park
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
University of Maryland - College Park
North Dakota State University
Texas Christian University
University of Akron
Washington College
Florida International University
Montclair State University
Denison University
Oklahoma Baptist University
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Aurora University
Thomas More University
University of North Alabama
William & Mary
University of Central Missouri
Longwood University
Aquinas College
Montana State University
What Software Sales Representative skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Kathleen Kelly: Maximizing your salary potential requires research, flexibility, and being your best advocate.
E. Duff Wrobbel Ph.D.
ChairSouthern Illinois University Edwardsville
Communication And Media Studies
What Software Sales Representative skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
E. Duff Wrobbel Ph.D.: All things social media are important, and so writing skills still matter.
What will help Software Sales Representatives increase their earning potential?
E. Duff Wrobbel Ph.D.: With this major, probably the best salaries are from sales jobs, which many people shy away from because they think only of hustling used cars, but sales can be very good work.
What general advice would you give to a Software Sales Representative?
Hank Boyd: Demonstrated proficiency in sales represents a feather in your cap. For many
CEOs, they started their illustrious career in sales. Nowadays, it is a common
launchpad for scores of successful business executives in consumer package goods.
Why is this so? Savvy companies know that it is paramount that new hires
quickly learn who the real target consumers are. Spending time on the front lines will
enhance your later contributions to the firm. For example, after obtaining my MBA from
Berkeley, I had the good fortune to land a sales position at Merck. I served as a Hospital
Representative specializing in broad spectrum antibiotics. My territory consisted of
Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto VA Medical Center, and the Santa Clara
Valley Medical Center.
After 18 months of working diligently in territory, I was offered a promotion to
work inside at Merck's headquarters in Rahway, New Jersey. Once I truly knew the
needs and concerns of my clients - general surgeons, urologists, gastroenterologists,
urologists, and infectious disease specialists - Merck was confident I could craft
relevant literature pieces and design compelling ad campaigns to reach target
physicians.
Mastery of general sales is a highly coveted asset. Once you conquer a given
product domain, the artform of sales is entirely transferrable. Case in point, it is not
unusual for you to begin in pharmaceuticals and then effortlessly segue into medical
equipment sales after a couple of years.
What Software Sales Representative skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Hank Boyd: With the looming prospects of AI, soft skills will reign supreme in sales. While at
first blush it might seem counterintuitive in that product knowledge used to be cardinal
skill, today's salesforce relies heavily on networking. Numerous academic papers lend
credence to this idea. Great people skills often trump wonkish knowledge about the
product line.
As we wade further into the 21st Century, environmental scanning (or better yet
the innate ability to read prospects) will remain pivotal. Exceptional salespeople
instinctively scan a prospective client's office noticing all the trappings. They are trying to find something they can comment upon, by doing so they can establish common
ground. Once a connection is forged, salespeople move out of the box of being pesky
interlopers into becoming valued associates.
Lastly, if you decide to embark on a career in sales never forget the tried-and-
true axiom of ABC - always be closing. This phrase means having the gumption to ask
for the business. While sales recruits might have congenial and bubbly personalities, if
they cannot look the prospect in the eye and ask for the business, they ought to find
another profession.
What will help Software Sales Representatives increase their earning potential?
Hank Boyd: Nothing provides greater leverage in salary negotiations than having
documented sales experience. My advice would be to garner as much experience as you
can while in college. For example, you could fundraise for a nonprofit cause or a local
political campaign. If you have affiliation with a fraternity or sorority, volunteer to
serve on its recruitment committee. The bottom line is that you must convince any
potential employer that you naturally relate to people from all walks of life.
Eric Gjerdevig
Lecturer in Marketing, Director for the Center for Professional Selling and Sales TechnologyNorth Dakota State University
Marketing
What Software Sales Representative skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Eric Gjerdevig: I might be a contrarian with this answer. I think as technology advances very quickly with AI it's our human-to-human skills that will become rarer and more valuable over the coming years. It might sound silly but things such as asking questions, listening, storytelling, and being empathetic can function like superpowers and I think they will even more in the coming years.
Ken Corbit Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Professional Practice in MarketingTexas Christian University
Specialized Sales, Merchandising And Marketing Operations
What general advice would you give to a Software Sales Representative?
Ken Corbit Ph.D.: Strategic
Company Selection:
Focus on joining companies with robust sales training programs, emphasizing consultative selling. Look for organizations that invest in your development, providing live calling experiences, quota-driven sales processes, and exposure to tools like Salesforce.
Tech
Proficiency and Sales Tools Mastery:
Familiarize yourself with cutting-edge sales technologies, including CRM tools like Salesforce. Your proficiency in these tools will not only streamline your sales processes but also position you as a tech-savvy professional in the competitive sales landscape.
Hands-On
Experience:
Actively engage in live calling, take ownership of sales funnels, and work with senior hiring authorities during your training. This hands-on experience will not only build your confidence but also prepare you for the challenges of consultative selling.
Research
and Decision-Making Skills:
Develop strong research skills to evaluate companies based on fit, growth opportunities, compensation structures, and overall potential. This informed decision-making approach will set you apart and empower you to navigate the sales landscape strategically.
Mentorship
and Networking:
Seek mentorship both within and outside your organization. Building relationships with mentors who invest in your sales skills and knowledge will provide valuable insights. Additionally, actively participate in online forums to connect with practical sales
knowledge and best practices.
Frederik Beuk
Associate Professor of MarketingUniversity of Akron
Specialized Sales, Merchandising And Marketing Operations
What will help Software Sales Representatives increase their earning potential?
Frederik Beuk: Digital Literacy and AI are obviously on everybody's mind. The benefit for early career professionals is that these are skills they can use to differentiate themselves from more established professionals. Embrace these tools. At the same time, being an authentic storyteller that helps buyers envision the potential of your solutions can be an extremely powerful skill.
Dr. Michael Harvey
Provost and Dean, John Toll Professor of Business ManagemenWashington College
Business Department
What soft skills should all Software Sales Representatives possess?
Dr. Michael Harvey: Across the business, the soft skills most in demand are the "3 C's": collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Employers are especially interested in evidence of projects, experiential learning, and internships, not simply majors and minors.
What's a day at work look like for a Software Sales Representative?
John Tobon: In the near term the work day will look a lot like online learning. Everything, starting with onboarding of employees has transitioned online. Newly hired employees may not meet their supervisors and co-workers in person for several months, if ever. There will be more real time online collaboration and greater need for proficiency in the use of communication software. Graduates may not necessarily live in the city where their employer is located, this will provide greater freedom to employees but it will also increase the level of competition for some positions. In the long term, workplace will look different. As a cost savings measure, companies will maximize the amount of offsite work that can be performed by implementing hybrid models that incorporate maximum telework arrangements.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Software Sales Representatives?
John Tobon: Yes, the enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on graduates will be how and where they will work. The pandemic forced employers to overlook their reluctance to telework arrangements in order to survive. The biggest change will come in government employment where all but the most sensitive positions will enjoy greater flexibility. This will also mean less travel for in-person meetings, as more people become more comfortable with video conferencing and as the technology becomes more secure and intuitive to the users, business travel will be reserved for only the most necessary activities.
What will help Software Sales Representatives increase their earning potential?
John Tobon: In the field of federal law enforcement the two growing needs are computer forensics and forensic accounting. Every law enforcement agency is in dire need of these skills, all criminal cases require forensic analysis of multiple devices such as phones, tablets, and computers. The demand for these skills far outweighs the current number of personnel available to perform the analysis. The complexity of the financial system has made tracing of ill-gotten gains a serious challenge even to the most experienced investigators. There is also greater emphasis on identifying the means and methods employed by criminal organizations and their co-conspirators to conceal illicit proceeds. The move to create greater transparency in beneficial ownership registries will create a flood of information that will require the unique skill set of forensic accountants to achieve success.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Software Sales Representative job market given the pandemic?
Jeffrey Gonzalez: I have to stress that I'm not an economist but an English professor who does a little work helping English majors think about their career options. That said, the American economy seems to continue down a bifurcated path--white collar labor that provides a modicum of security and blue- or pink-collar labor or gig work that isn't secure or well-paid. I would bet that we'll see a great deal of jobs in both sectors emerge as more people are vaccinated and as the summer months mean more people interacting outside, and I'm also optimistic about the stimulus packages' effect on the economy.
The trends will, if you ask me, mean more hiring. But for the students I work with, it'll likely be more of the same: underemployment for Humanities majors upon first graduating college, followed by slow & steady growth in wages and benefits through a period of switching jobs and careers. They'll start in jobs that involve reading, writing, researching, and analysis, or they'll support individuals engaged in these processes, before they start designing or directing projects of their own. Workers who learn fast, who have great language skills, who are adaptable to different circumstances--these people have the best chance of achieving careers.
Where will we see growth? In areas that cater to the very wealthy; in app development; in health care/public health (of course); in finance; in entertainment production though housed in a handful of places.
Will we see growth in academic hiring? Not for the field I work in--the teaching & research side. We will continue to see growth in the administrative aspects of the university, which has been the trend for decades, while tenure-line hiring has declined considerably. It's not a good job to pursue.
How have salaries changed over time for Software Sales Representatives?
Jeffrey Gonzalez: My field is academia, and salaries have stayed fairly consistent if you get a tenure-line job. I'm part of a collective bargaining unit, which means I have a much better chance at a decent wage and decent benefits. Adjuncts do the bulk of teaching at American universities, and they don't have nearly the benefits or pay that professors get. English primary and secondary school teachers's pay has also remained consistent or declined, and teachers, like most public-college professors, have to rely on negotiations with the state for raises. We train a lot of teachers, and luckily, none of them is in it for the money.
For the students we have who go into the information or knowledge sector, they start underemployed and move up, as I said. The most recent research I've seen (and again, I'm not an economist) said that Humanities majors eventually make as much as business or more career-specific majors (public relations, etc.).
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Software Sales Representatives?
Ashley Strausser: Much has changed in the last year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. One of the most obvious impacts being that of how we work and connect with others. I believe that working remotely will continue as employees and organizations have proven that they can work effectively from home. For many graduates, utilizing digital technology to do their work, collaborate with colleagues, engage with clients and connect socially with friends and family will continue to be the norm for the foreseeable future.
Additionally, graduating during a global pandemic has required students to be more flexible, open-minded and resourceful than ever before. Students graduating this spring had to adjust and pivot last year when many internships were cancelled or turned remote. While there are many industries that are struggling, many others are experiencing unprecedented growth during this time. I am encouraging students to be open to exploring positions in different industries, sectors and even geographic regions than perhaps they were initially considering, while still being true to their interests and skills. I coach students daily on the importance of networking, which has always been an essential part of an effective job search strategy; however, the power of one's professional network is even more valuable in a competitive job market.
What's a day at work look like for a Software Sales Representative?
Ashley Strausser: As we continue to live and work through a global pandemic, many new graduates will be working remotely or in some sort of hybrid variation. Working remotely necessitates discipline and being a self-starter. Graduates will need to develop strong professional work habits that will serve them well and lay a strong foundation as they begin their career. Many of us are challenged by a lack of social interaction beyond meetings with colleagues or clients via Zoom or Teams. Working from home for the last year, I can personally attest that attending to our physical and mental health is more important than ever. Take time to go for a walk or run on your lunch break. Set your alarm early to spend time meditating before you begin your work day. Don't get into the habit of rolling out of bed at 7:55am to start work at 8:00am. Consider doing yoga after work to help relieve stress. Make it a point to set up regular Zoom lunch dates to connect with or get to know your new colleagues. With our laptop and work space set up at home it's easy to get into the habit of working much more than we normally would if we were commuting to and from the office. It's important to set boundaries related to when and how much we work. Employ a strong work ethic, but don't neglect important aspects of your well-being.
What will help Software Sales Representatives increase their earning potential?
Ashley Strausser: Graduates need to do their research, know their worth and negotiate their job offer. It amazes me how many students accept the salary offered to them without considering negotiation. Graduates should do their due diligence using sites such as Glassdoor and Salary.com to compare their salary offer to similar roles in the same region. If you are going to negotiate, you must be able to make a strong case as to why you are deserving of more money. This cannot be based on what you feel you deserve, but rather the skills you possess, relevant experiences you've had and the tangible results you've achieved that will enable you to be successful in the role. Evaluate the job description to determine if you possess some, or perhaps many, of the desired qualifications beyond the minimum qualifications listed. If so, use those as part of your negotiation. If not, consider how you might be able to develop those desired qualifications to make you a stronger candidate.
Competitive candidates should have a strong, well-rounded skill set. Being able to articulate your skills and experiences (academic, co-curricular, internships, research, study abroad, etc.) both on your resume and in an interview is critical. Know the skills necessary to be effective in the roles you seek. If you are lacking skills essential to your desired roles or industries, consider completing online courses or certifications through LinkedIn Learning or Coursera. Take advantage of skill-building resources and programs available through your university. Finally, research and prepare well for your interviews. This includes conducting mock interviews with staff in your career center to practice and gain valuable feedback on ways to improve your interviewing skills.
Dr. Daryl Green
Associate Professor of BusinessOklahoma Baptist University
College of Business
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Software Sales Representative job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Daryl Green: Today's students need to embrace emerging market trends. For marketing students, the marketing concept means intimately understanding your customers and satisfying their immediate needs. The lingering pandemic from 2020 will make the job hunt more difficult this year. From my research, here are 2021 employment trends to consider:
Marketing strategy still matters. Today's businesses are using ineffective marketing strategies despite using digital tactics like social media platforms. According to HubSpot, only 61% of marketers believe their marketing strategy is effective. Yet, they are still pouring massive amounts of dollars into digital advertising. Understanding the basic marketing strategies will equip college grads for the challenges ahead.
Artificial intelligence and automation rise in 2021. Marketing professionals will need to be more tech-savvy. AI will make analyzing and implementing decisions more efficient. According to a McKinsey study, Netflix saved $1 billion in lost revenue in 2017 by using machine learning to make personalized recommendations. Other businesses, like Amazon, are doing the same.
Data analytics continue to emerge as a critical ingredient for market decision making. About 82% of marketers plan to increase their usage of first-party data (Source: Signal). Taking a marketing analytics course will be helpful to graduates.
Digital platforms will continue to dominate the economy. Thus, an online presence is essential. According to a Bright Edge study, digital ad spending will reach $389 billion in 2021. Thus, students need good digital literacy to succeed.
Mobile platforms like smartphones are the future. As for May of 2020, Google was responsible for 67% of all smartphone search traffic.
How have salaries changed over time for Software Sales Representatives?
Dr. Daryl Green: Based on my research, I predict that the current salaries for marketing majors will be unchanged from 2020. There are 'riches in niches.' Certain areas, like marketing analytics, may see a surge. For example, market research analysts are projected to grow 18 percent from 2019 to 2029, according to US BLS. However, Covid-19 is the X-factor for the economy.
Chad Newswander Ph.D.
Professor of Political ScienceBrigham Young University-Idaho
Department of Political Science
What technical skills for a Software Sales Representative stand out to employers?
Chad Newswander Ph.D.: It is a combination of soft and hard skills. Young professionals need to be reliable, conscientious, hardworking, and be able to work well with others. They also need to show early signs of leadership, allowing them to grow within the organization. Above all, they need to be trusted to get the work done and be likeable. They also need to have a concrete skillset that allows them to contribute. Each young professional needs to think how they can add value to their organization (not just what the organization will do for them). Those skills can range from data/statistical analysis, writing, speaking, research, etc. In order to show that they have these skills, students should do multiple internships while in school from credible organizations.
Jacqueline Babb
Assistant Professor of Digital Marketing, Director of Graduate StudiesAurora University
Marketing Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Software Sales Representative job market given the pandemic?
Jacqueline Babb: The pandemic has been a tipping point for innovation in technology. I anticipate that we may see a more of an emphasis on technology in business that will bring teams together virtually, but also automate tasks that are simple and repetitive.
What technical skills for a Software Sales Representative stand out to employers?
Jacqueline Babb: Technical skills paired with strong communication, flexibility in thought, diversity, and creative problem solving are a winning combination for job candidates. Candidates with a strong acumen in data analysis and storytelling are marketable right now.
Dr. John D. (Jack) Rudnick
ProfessorThomas More University
Department of Business Administration and Accountancy
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Software Sales Representatives?
Dr. John D. (Jack) Rudnick: Proficiency in informatics, finance, entrepreneurship strategy, and quality improvement with an intentional strategy to drive these processes can have a large positive effect on revenue generation and expense reduction. CPA certification, process improvement certifications (Scrum, Lean Six Sigma, AGILE), IT certifications and long-term care licensure are beneficial credentials to consider. Leaders with a clinical background bring credibility to positions where flexibility and depth of knowledge offers prospective employers an attractive combination of credentials.
John Cicala Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Digital MarketingUniversity of North Alabama
Management & Marketing Department
What's a day at work look like for a Software Sales Representative?
John Cicala Ph.D.: It will not be as structured or segmented as previous generations' workdays have been, but it will involve more tasks and responsibilities. It will involve more research and inquiry. It will involve a significant amount of time working online and less time interacting in person. That said, the times that do require/involve interpersonal engagement will be more important than ever before due to the increased value that people will place on their time. Hence, the need for individuals to be skilled at both distanced and face-to-face interactions.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Software Sales Representative job market given the pandemic?
John Cicala Ph.D.: Increased use and reliance on digital-based marketing, thereby resulting in an increased need for people who understand and appreciate the differences in and among the many digital marketing avenues available. Also, a need for individuals who can not only analyze collected data but who can understand and interpret it as well.
Dr. Matteo Cantarello Ph.D.
Visiting Assistant Professor of Hispanic StudiesWilliam & Mary
Department of Modern Languages and Literatures
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Software Sales Representative job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Matteo Cantarello Ph.D.: In regard to the academic job market, I can talk about Hispanic/Latin American studies and, broadly speaking, literary and cultural studies. In the past year or two, trans- and interdisciplinarity are a must have to be successful. Research topics that are related to race and gender are also extremely important. More than trends, I would talk about urgency when it comes to higher education. The job market outside of higher education seems to be liking business and computer sciences. In the United States, in particular, any intersection between these two fields (e.g., digital security, cryptocurrency) has been extremely popular.
How have salaries changed over time for Software Sales Representatives?
Dr. Matteo Cantarello Ph.D.: I don't have data and I am sure it varies a lot depending on the institution, the position, the field, etcetera. There is a close relationship between "prestige" of a position (tenure-eligible or a renown postdoctoral fellowship vs. visiting, more teaching-oriented positions) and compensation. A prestigious postdoctoral fellowship with 1 or less courses per semester to teach and/or TE positions with a 2-2 or a 3-3 pay up to 100% more than the average NTE position, that typically dictates a 3-3, 4-4, or 5-5 teaching load. In general, however, the more secure your position is the easier it is to secure funding and other resources that complement the base salary.
What technical skills for a Software Sales Representative stand out to employers?
Dr. Matteo Cantarello Ph.D.: Programming has become an asset within the humanities, too. Even though hires of digital humanists are still limited in number (at least within my discipline), they are probably destined to increase in the near future. Also, flexibility and versatility with respect to teaching are also highly marketable. Any candidate who has experience with in-person, hybrid, and online courses and who has degrees, titles, and certificates that demonstrate that is extremely appreciated on the academic job market.
Stephen (Tyler) Hirlinger
Assistant Professor of MarketingUniversity of Central Missouri
Division of Business Strategy, Marketing Program
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Software Sales Representatives?
Stephen (Tyler) Hirlinger: The pandemic will certainly have a lasting impact on graduates, both positively and negatively. To start with the positives, I think the transition to online learning the past two semesters has forced students to gain many valuable skills that will be necessary for success in the post-pandemic work environment. The work dynamic in many industries may remain radically different for the foreseeable future and I think graduates will be more resourceful, organized, more productive in remote settings, and work better in groups due to the recent circumstances. I also think students will learn to be more entrepreneurial and improve their ability to "sell themselves" due to fewer career opportunities and higher competition in the workforce. Time will tell, but I think the lack of job availability may stunt the career growth for many recent graduates, while those that learn to grow when faced with adversity will thrive.
What's a good job out of college for Software Sales Representatives?
Stephen (Tyler) Hirlinger: This is a rather difficult question to answer because it entirely depends on a student's field of study and goals and aspirations. Any job that helps a student understand their strengths, weaknesses, interests, and disinterests is a good starting point. Changing careers and/or career paths is no longer looked upon negatively, so I believe any career out of college that allows the graduate to learn and grow (personally and professionally) is a good one, as they can always pivot until they find a career that's fulfilling and rewarding.
What will help Software Sales Representatives increase their earning potential?
Stephen (Tyler) Hirlinger: I think creativity is a skill that's often overlooked, especially in the businessworld. If I were a student looking to differentiate myself and increase my earning potential, I'd diversify my skill set and develop my creativity as much as possible. In my opinion, creativity is the human ability that's most difficult (if not impossible) to automate with technology and will always be rewarded. Also, the ability to communicate and articulate one's ideas and thoughts effectively is a desirable skill regardless of the profession. The best communicators are often the highest earners!
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Software Sales Representatives to find work opportunities?
Dr. David Lehr: Most job growth will continue to be in urban centers and the surrounding suburbs. Rural areas will continue to struggle (remote work notwithstanding).
What skills stand out on Software Sales Representative resumes?
Dr. David Lehr: Information flow skills, particularly surrounding data analytics.
Kerri Orders
Assistant Professor of BusinessAquinas College
Business Administration Department
What Software Sales Representative skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kerri Orders: In terms of a gap year, I recommend that international business students acquire tangible skills, relevant experience and/or certifications which will enhance their success in their desired area of interest. For example, a gap year could consist of gaining technical or digital training overseas, which would also further the students' cultural intelligence and language proficiency. These types of enriching gap year experiences will assist students to distinguish themselves in a highly competitive market. Furthermore, students should focus on broadening and maintaining their global network during a gap year in order to be ready for the job market once the gap year is concluded.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Software Sales Representative job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Angela Woodland Ph.D.: There is still work that needs to be done. Those jobs that are necessary for the economy to continue and for the protection and service of the public will continue to need willing and able employees. The field I know most about is accounting. Publicly-traded companies are required to have audits of their financial statements. This is for the protection of all who use financial statements to make investing decisions. Think about your retirement savings plans, 401(k) plans, etc. So, every year there is a need to hire students who are ready to take the CPA exam and ready to become auditors. The same goes for students who are trained and ready to prepare income tax returns for corporations and individuals. Pandemic or no pandemic, we still need accountants. In fact, we now need accountants who are prepared to make certain that loans and grants related to pandemic relief have been used for their intended purposes and have been distributed appropriately.
What skills stand out on Software Sales Representative resumes?
Dr. Angela Woodland Ph.D.: Skills that are immediately useful stand out on resumes. Right now, data analytics skills are in hot demand. A desirable job candidate should be able to import large data sets in various formats, clean data, manipulate data, interrogate data, and draw conclusions from the data. Additionally, the job candidate should be able to prepare informative and easy-to-follow data visualizations of the results. This skill set allows a job candidate to be immediately useful in an organization. It is the new way of analyzing and communicating.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Software Sales Representatives to find work opportunities?
Dr. Angela Woodland Ph.D.: There are pockets of opportunity in most communities. The savvy student will meet and make connections with local businesses through internships, student clubs, guest lectures, and other college events. With a little effort, students can learn to speak the vernacular of local industries and tailor their resumes and skill sets accordingly.