Outside Sales Representative

Summary

The focus of this position is working with and through others, building and maintaining relationships, and working closely and accurately within established guidelines. There is a need for an effective communicator, someone who can stimulate and motivate others while being aware of and responsive to their needs and concerns. There will be many different people to meet and work with. The person in this position must be friendly and genuinely interested in the business, agenda, and needs of others, including the company, its management, the team, the company's customers, or all the above.

A persuasive, teaching style of communication is required to communicate the company's policies, programs, and systems. A faster-than-average pace will be the norm for this position. Detail work is a major focus of the job, and those details need to be handled quickly, correctly, and efficiently. This portion of the work will often focus on relationships with others; correct handling of details dealing with others is necessary to maintain and grow relationships. If the job involves managing others, following up carefully, closely, and cheerfully is required to ensure both correct work and maintenance of the relationships. Necessary corrections must be made in a constructive, supportive manner. As time is usually a factor, the work must be done on time, as well as correctly. In general, this is a position where guidelines, structure, and established policies must be followed closely, while working with and for others.

JOB CHARACTERISTICS

Below are the salient job characteristics, summarized and categorized. For best success, find candidates who thrive in the environment described below.

Pace and Variety of Activities

Each day different from the next; especially in personal interactions

Fast-paced environment

Multiple projects going simultaneously

Focus

Very socially-focused; requires "how can I help you?" attitude

Lots of attention spent on building and maintaining relationships, especially where helping, not pressuring others, foster the relationship

Decision-Making

Adherence to established guidelines and procedures is important

Important to involve others in the decision-making; there is a need to build consensus rather than make decisions alone

Communication and Collaboration

Open, flowing communication is important

Position requires working with and through others, especially in a helping role

There is a need for a persuasive, "selling" (rather than "telling") communication style

Delegation and Leadership Style

Team environment: leader must be willing to jump in and roll up his/her sleeves to help when necessary

Need someone who leads by example, with first-hand knowledge of area of expertise

Strong, friendly follow-up necessary on tasks delegated to ensure proper results