Acquisitor, advertisements

What does an advertising sales representative do? – Tasks and work environment

An advertising sales representative primarily works with selling advertising space in various media, such as newspapers, digital platforms, radio, or TV. Tasks include contacting potential clients, presenting advertising solutions, and negotiating prices and terms. The role requires a good understanding of marketing and communication, as it is crucial to match clients' needs with the appropriate ad formats. The work is often performed in an office environment with client meetings, both physically and digitally, where high pace and clear results are common. Collaboration with marketing departments and production teams is a natural part of the daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for advertising sales representatives has seen an interesting development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,400 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 42 800 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 8.6%. For 2024, the salary has been slightly adjusted, and the average now stands at 42 200 SEK, which is a marginal decrease compared to the previous year. This trend can partly be explained by market fluctuations and increased competition for advertising revenue, where digitalization and changes in the media landscape influence the profession's valuation. Despite the small decline last year, salaries remain stable above the national average for occupations with similar qualifications, and gender differences are relatively small.

Advertising sales representative salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 42 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (men), 42,400 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 54,400 SEK/month (men), 42,900 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 254 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 103% of what men do
• Regional differences: Limited information, but urban regions tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as an advertising sales representative, a post-secondary education in sales, marketing, or media is usually required. Many employers value previous sales experience, especially within media or advertising. Practical experience and good references can carry significant weight during recruitment, and additional courses in digital marketing or negotiation techniques can provide a competitive advantage.

• Formal education: Post-secondary education (2–3 years) in sales, marketing, or media
• Certifications: Courses in digital advertising, negotiation, and customer relations
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs at media houses or advertising agencies
• Prerequisites: Experience in sales and customer work
• Tips: Self-study on digital advertising platforms and industry trends increases employability

Common benefits and compensations

Advertising sales representatives are often offered performance-based bonuses in addition to base salary, and sometimes company cars or wellness allowances. Other common benefits include flexible working hours, remote work options, and access to training or skill development in sales and digital advertising.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an advertising sales representative is relatively high, especially in attractive regions and at well-established media companies. Digitalization has changed industry conditions and increased demands for technical skills, meaning those who do not keep up risk being overtaken. The industry is also sensitive to economic fluctuations, which can affect both the number of available positions and salary levels. Customers' increased demands for measurability and results require strong relationship-building skills and data-driven work.

Tips for aspiring advertising sales representatives

To succeed as an advertising sales representative, perseverance is important, as sales work often requires patience and the ability to handle setbacks. Being communicative facilitates trust-building and developing long-term customer relationships, so practice listening and tailoring messages to different audiences. A strong self-motivation is an advantage, especially in a role where results are often measured and rewarded directly. Being analytical helps you understand market trends and identify new business opportunities, which can lead to better sales results. Also, stay curious about digital tools and new advertising platforms, as technological development is rapid and provides a competitive edge for those who stay updated. Finally, it is important to be resilient and flexible, as the pace is often high and tasks can change quickly.

Key facts about advertising sales representatives

• Educational level: Post-secondary education, often in sales or marketing
• Work environment: Office-based with client visits and digital meetings
• Typical employment type: Permanent employment with results-based salary
• Demand: Approximately 550 available jobs in the profession according to the latest data
• Special skills: Digital advertising and negotiation techniques are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an advertising sales representative, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as key account manager, sales manager, or product manager within media and marketing. Some choose to deepen their expertise in digital advertising and can then work as digital strategists or specialists in programmatic advertising. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that demand for advertising sales representatives remains relatively stable, although competition for the most attractive positions is high. The impact of digitalization is expected to increase the need for skills in data analysis and digital sales, making those who invest in further education in these areas well-positioned for the future.

Frequently asked questions about advertising sales representatives

• What does an advertising sales representative earn?
  - The average salary is 42 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and region.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 103% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What education is required to become an advertising sales representative?
  - Post-secondary education in sales, marketing, or media is recommended.
• What is the highest salary for an advertising sales representative?
  - The highest salary is 54,400 SEK per month and belongs to a man with extensive experience and post-secondary education.
• What is the job market like for advertising sales representatives?
  - There are approximately 550 available jobs in the profession according to the latest data.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Perseverance, communication skills, and strong self-motivation are particularly valuable.