How to Get Into Sales Marketing from a Different Career

Have you recently (or always) been intrigued by the thought of working as a sales marketing professional? Does the possibility of getting a product or service to a customer excite you? Are you interested in trying your hand at creatively advertising and marketing a company’s goods?

Even if you’ve never been involved within the field of sales or marketing before, it is feasible to work your way into this kind of a career. However, you must be prepared to systematically and strategically get experience and obtain industry connections.

Below are some doable methods for you to prepare yourself to enter the sales and marketing sectors.

1. Start Taking Courses in Sales and Marketing

Want to show prospective employers that you’re sincere about changing your career path? One of the most meaningful ways to do so is to begin taking credit or non-credit courses—in person or online—in sales and marketing topic areas. In fact, you may want to consider getting a certification or degree in sales, marketing, business or another similar field.

By adding this important credentialing to your CV (curriculum vitae), you’ll be indicating your sincerity to become a sales marketing pro. And as a benefit, you’ll be making connections in the sales marketing industry through your instructors and, if applicable, internships.

2. Volunteer in a Sales Marketing Capacity

Many nonprofit organisations would love to have someone tackle their sales (aka, fundraising) and marketing needs. If you feel confident enough (either or alone or with someone else), why not provide sales and marketing services for an agency in whose mission you strongly believe?

Again, this will give you some understanding of sales and marketing as well as getting you involved with new individuals who can potentially become professional references.

3. Tell Your Company of Your Desires

Does your employer have a sales and/or marketing department? If so, talk with your supervisor or a trusted executive about your desires to move into that field.

Though there’s no guarantee that your company will consider you for future sales marketing positions, you’ll at least be opening the door with your dialogue and honesty. And you never know what can happen.

4. Get in Touch with a Career Coach

Many people market themselves as career coaches; find one with an excellent reputation and make an investment in counselling sessions with him or her.

A career coach will not only help you map out a plan for your move into sales marketing, but he or she may also provide you with unique ideas to switch jobs without losing much income or status.

5. Start Your Own Company or Purchase a Franchise

Though it may seem a bit extreme, purchasing a franchise or starting a business may actually be a reasonable way to move into sales and marketing. After all, if you’re an entrepreneur, you can give yourself any title you wish.

One caveat, though—if you choose this route, do so deliberately. This is a life-changing career move and you want to make it work for you!