I have never sold but have a strong science background, what are my options in my career path?
Your options will really be determined by the hiring manager and the mind set that he/she has about hiring. Some only want exact experience (like working for a competitor in the same territory). Some will look at candidates with sales experience in their market, but maybe a different segment. An example of that is you sold glassware to the hospital lab, but not reagents (his segment). The last and smallest group is those managers that will consider candidates with no sales experience. Managers and companies that hire without any sales experience usually have to have very strong training departments and managers that are great at “curbside coaching”. The net net is this: You will be eliminated from contention for more opportunities than you will be considered for with no sales experience. The key to your job search will be identifying companies/managers that like to “grow their own” by taking chances on people light on experience but heavy on potential. A recommendation from a salespers
