Subscription seller

What does a subscription sales representative do? – Tasks and working environment

A subscription sales representative primarily contacts individuals and companies to sell services or products offered as subscriptions. The tasks include presenting offers, answering questions, handling objections, and closing sales via phone or digital channels. The work often takes place in office environments with open-plan layouts and clear sales targets, where the pace is high and results-focused. Many subscription sales representatives work in teams and have daily contact with colleagues and sales managers to evaluate performance and develop sales techniques.

Salary development over time

The salary for subscription sales representatives has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,500 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose to 32 400 SEK, representing an increase of about 10%. For 2024, the average salary has further increased to 33 200 SEK per month, which is an increase of just over 2% compared to the previous year. This positive salary trend can partly be explained by increased demand for skilled salespeople and greater competition for labor within sales professions. At the same time, changes in industry requirements and a higher proportion of qualified salespeople have contributed to a higher salary level.

Subscription sales representative salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,800 SEK/month (men), 33,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 35,000 SEK/month (men), 34,500 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 200 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 106% of what men do (men 32 400 SEK/month, women 34,500 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Data is limited or unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a subscription sales representative, no formal higher education is usually required, but a high school diploma is common. Many employers offer introductory training and internal onboarding, where communication skills and sales experience are highly valued. Experience from previous sales jobs is an advantage, but there are also opportunities for beginners to enter the profession through trainee programs or internships.

• High school diploma: The most common education level, with a focus on sales/commerce providing an advantage
• Internal sales training: Short courses offered by employers are standard
• Internships and trainee programs: Many companies offer internships for beginners
• Customer contact experience: Previous service or sales jobs are meritorious
• Communication skills: Important for success in the role

Common benefits and compensation

In addition to base salary, performance-based bonuses or commissions that reward good sales results are often offered. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, internal competitions with prizes, and training opportunities. Some employers also provide pension contributions and insurance as part of the employment package.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a subscription sales representative is relatively high, especially since the profession attracts both beginners and more experienced salespeople. A challenge is that the industry is characterized by high demands for results and a fast pace, requiring resilience and endurance. Additionally, the market changes rapidly with new technological solutions and evolving customer behaviors, making continuous development of sales methods necessary. The working environment can sometimes be stressful, as salespeople often work toward clear goals and deadlines.

Tips for those who want to become a subscription sales representative

To succeed as a subscription sales representative, it is good to be communicative and able to express oneself clearly in both speech and writing. Having a strong drive and a competitive spirit is a big advantage, as the profession is based on reaching set goals and sometimes competing with colleagues. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to different customer types increase the chances of success, while a positive and persistent attitude is crucial when facing setbacks. Actively listening to customer needs and quickly finding solutions are also central. Carefulness in administration and follow-up of customer cases facilitate the work and create a professional impression. Finally, it is important to regularly develop your sales skills and take advantage of training and feedback opportunities from colleagues and managers.

Key facts about subscription sales representatives

• Education level: Usually high school diploma with a focus on sales
• Work environment: Office-based, often open-plan with a high pace
• Typical working hours: Full-time, sometimes shifts or evening work
• Demand: 550 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Communication ability and sales drive

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a subscription sales representative, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as team leader, sales coach, or sales manager, especially for those with proven good results and leadership qualities. Some choose to broaden their skills into other sales or customer service professions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for subscription sales representatives, but the number of available jobs in the profession remains high. The industry is influenced by digitalization and changing buying behaviors, which require continuous development. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to new working methods are therefore assets for long-term career development.

Frequently asked questions about subscription sales representatives

• What does a subscription sales representative earn?
  - A subscription sales representative has an average salary of 33 200 SEK per month.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 106% of what men do (men 32 400 SEK/month, women 34,500 SEK/month).
• What education is required to become a subscription sales representative?
  - Usually, a high school diploma, often with a focus on sales or commerce. Many employers offer internal training.
• What is the working environment like for subscription sales representatives?
  - The work is often office-based with a high pace and clear targets, where phone contact with customers is central.
• Are there many job openings for subscription sales representatives?
  - Yes, in May 2024, there were 550 job openings in the profession.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities exist to advance to roles such as team leader, coach, or sales manager.
• What are the future prospects for subscription sales representatives?
  - Forecasts are unavailable, but demand for labor in the profession remains high.