According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Negotiate with retail merchants to improve product exposure, such as shelf positioning and advertising. | 88% |
| Check stock levels and reorder merchandise as necessary. | 88% |
| Plan, assemble, and stock product displays in retail stores, or make recommendations to retailers regarding product displays, promotional programs, and advertising. | 87% |
| Answer customers' questions about products, prices, availability, product uses, and credit terms. | 87% |
| Recommend products to customers, based on customers' needs and interests. | 85% |
| Estimate or quote prices, credit or contract terms, warranties, and delivery dates. | 85% |
| Consult with clients after sales or contract signings to resolve problems and to provide ongoing support. | 84% |
| Negotiate details of contracts and payments. | 83% |
| Prepare sales contracts and order forms. | 83% |
| Provide customers with product samples and catalogs. | 82% |
| Monitor market conditions, product innovations, and competitors' products, prices, and sales. | 81% |
| Perform administrative duties, such as preparing sales budgets and reports, keeping sales records, and filing expense account reports. | 80% |
| Prepare drawings, estimates, and bids that meet specific customer needs. | 80% |
| Obtain credit information about prospective customers. | 79% |
| Contact regular and prospective customers to demonstrate products, explain product features, and solicit orders. | 78% |
| Forward orders to manufacturers. | 77% |
| Identify prospective customers by using business directories, following leads from existing clients, participating in organizations and clubs, and attending trade shows and conferences. | 77% |
| Arrange and direct delivery and installation of products and equipment. | 73% |
| Buy products from manufacturers or brokerage firms and distribute them to wholesale and retail clients. | 71% |
