Business industry jobs are increasing in both popularity and availability, with even more growth expected to occur over the coming years, according to recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports. In both public and private sectors, the BLS anticipates more employment increases at rates over 22% over the next several years through 2020. As for the specific positions, jobs all over the business spectrum at all levels are in line for increases. One group of professionals in particular, sales representatives, will be enjoying the benefits of economic growth and development.

Increasing Demand for Sales Representatives

Sales representatives are key players in many different types of businesses. The material to be sold can vary from goods to services, and as such the clientele can range from large corporations to small businesses to everyday product consumers. Sales managers are responsible for identifying potential buyers through varied means, including understanding market research and generating new leads through business-to-consumer communications. Sales representatives are knowledgeable about their products or services and strive to create business opportunities by demonstrating the usefulness and effectiveness of their product. These professionals are some of the most valuable direct links between a business and its consumer, and will continue to be key players in small and large businesses.

As major generators of revenue for businesses, sales representatives are increasingly important to a company’s success as new trends in marketing and advertising develop. Depending on the company, a sales representative can be either a very small or a very, very large component of what accounts for a business’s growth and overall success. In 2010, BLS reported an annual median income of $50,620 per year for sales representatives; these professionals are required to have only a high school diploma or equivalent to enter the field on the lower levels.

Job Outlook for Sales Representatives

Through 2020, sales representative jobs are expected to increase by more than 18%. Where 2010 reported 561,300 workers employed in the field, BLS reports an anticipated 666,600 professionals holding sales representative positions. Largely responsible for the increase will be the creation of new, ground-breaking products and technologies, as well as businesses seeking contract services to improve their own brands or business models.

Though a college degree is not a requirement to enter the field, holding at least a bachelor’s degree in a related business field will aid job-seekers aiming for popular positions. Additionally, because sales often involves a great deal of face-to-face communication, favor is typically shown to applicants with excellent communications skills and plentiful sales or similar working experience.