On Social Web Thing I predominately discuss issues around social business and employability, however with a break from tradition, this week I’m going to look at the importance of sales, rather than social – and why a sales job might be for you.

• Excellent career prospects – Sales can be found in any industry. Most businesses rely heavily on revenue generated by sales. Given this, a successful salesperson can aim higher within a company and, more easily than other industry, change company … or even switch to another industry.
• Continual personal development – There is no shortage of training workshops available for salespeople. There are also sections in bookstores dedicated to becoming a sales person. While some training programmes out there are less than great, there are many resources available to improve your sales skills.
• Variety - One thing that can definitely be said about sales is that it’s not boring.  It’s a career filled with excitement, often generated from opportunities you found and seized upon.
• Opportunity/freedom to work on own initiative – One of the greatest skills a sales person can have is initiative. Some people have it, others don’t. But for those who do have it, it means great freedom when working because you select your own plan of action. Your company sets goals for you, but you’re the one who figures out how to achieve them.
• Rewards for success – As an integral part of the main source of money for companies, it is right that you reap financial rewards. You will come across excellent salary packages that include base salaries, benefits and generous commission schemes. And unlike with most jobs, the harder you work, the more you make.
• Stability – Companies are always in need of a sales department. In fact, in times of trouble, companies put a bigger push on sales.
• You get to dress nice for work – As a sales person, you need to present a confident image, which means that spending a money on nice clothes is practically a business expense.
• Work for companies you believe in – Because sales can be found in virtually all companies, it means you can go after companies and brands you believe in.
• Great career prospects – With a strong sales career, not only can you continue up the ladder to sales manager but often you can go into business administration. Sales gives you several transferable skills, such as learning how to be an entrepreneur, manage budgets, improve time managment and speak in public.
• You’re great at it – While you can learn sales techniques, certain people are natural at persuading others. Be proud of your gift and use it to create a great career for yourself.