Ad seller

What does an Advertising Salesperson do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An advertising salesperson primarily works on selling ad space in various media, such as newspapers, magazines, digital platforms, radio, and TV. Responsibilities include identifying and contacting potential clients, conducting sales meetings, customizing advertising offers, and negotiating contracts. The role requires a good understanding of customer needs and the current media landscape, as well as the ability to work towards clear sales targets. The work environment is often office-based but may also include client visits and travel, especially for those working with larger corporate clients or nationwide media houses.

Salary development over time

Salaries for advertising salespeople have shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK per month, which increased to 49 600 SEK in 2023 and has continued to rise to 51 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 9.9% over the period. A key explanation for this development is the increased digitization of the media landscape, where demand for skilled digital advertising salespeople has grown. At the same time, competition for advertising revenue among different platforms has increased, making employers willing to pay higher salaries to attract and retain top performers. Despite a generally balanced job market for corporate sales, individual performance and experience also influence salary levels within the profession.

Advertising Salesperson salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (women, public sector); 46,500 SEK/month (men)
• Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month (men, private sector, post-secondary education); 52,200 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 309 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn 53 000 SEK, women 47 200 SEK (89% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan regions tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as an advertising salesperson, a high school diploma is usually required, often with a focus on sales or marketing. Many employers also value post-secondary studies, especially in media, economics, or communication. Practical sales experience and strong social skills are crucial, and many start their careers through trainee programs or internships. Industry-specific courses and further training in digital sales are becoming increasingly common.

• High school diploma: Business and administration program, 3 years
• Post-secondary education: For example, YH education in sales/marketing, 1–2 years
• Courses/certifications: Digital advertising, media knowledge, negotiation techniques
• Internships/trainee programs: Common entry points into the profession
• Prerequisites: Social competence and communication skills
• Self-study/online courses: Recommended to stay updated on new digital advertising techniques

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, advertising salespeople are often offered performance-based bonuses or commissions, which can cause total earnings to vary depending on sales results. Company cars, wellness contributions, mobile phones, and sometimes remote work options are common benefits. Some employers also offer training allowances and opportunities for further education in sales or digital marketing.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of advertising sales is significant, especially in larger cities and among leading media houses. Digitalization has fundamentally changed the advertising market, requiring continuous skill development and adaptability. Customers' increasing demands for measurable results and tailored solutions mean that salespeople need a deep understanding of both technology and marketing. At the same time, personal sales ability and networking play a large role in success, which can lead to stress and high-pressure situations but also great opportunities for those who deliver results.

Tips for aspiring Advertising Salespeople

To succeed as an advertising salesperson, strong communication skills and the ability to build trust with clients are essential. A curious and results-oriented approach helps identify new business opportunities and understand market trends. Resilience and stress tolerance are crucial, especially when sales targets are high and competition intense. Self-leadership and organization make daily work easier, as the job often requires independence and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Good digital skills are also important, as today’s salespeople need to navigate various media channels and systems. Continually developing your network and staying updated on new advertising techniques also provide a competitive edge in the job market.

Key facts about Advertising Salespeople

• Education level: High school diploma, preferably supplemented with YH or university studies
• Work environment: Office-based, often with a high pace and customer contact
• Work form: Usually full-time employment, often with commission-based pay
• Demand: Moderate job opportunities, 550 available positions nationwide
• Special skills: Digital sales, negotiation, and customer relations

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an advertising salesperson, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as sales manager, key account manager, or specialist in digital advertising. Some choose to further their education in marketing or media planning to broaden their skill set. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, the job market for corporate salespeople, including advertising salespeople, is expected to be balanced over the next five years with moderate job opportunities and unchanged demand. Digitalization and new advertising techniques drive the need for ongoing skill development, and those who stay updated on industry trends have good prospects for continued employment and career growth.

Frequently asked questions about Advertising Salespeople

• What does an Advertising Salesperson earn?
  - The average salary is 51 300 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 309 SEK.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 53 000 SEK, women 47 200 SEK, which means women earn 89% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become an Advertising Salesperson?
  - Usually a high school diploma with a focus on sales, but post-secondary education and courses in digital advertising are advantageous.
• What are the most common benefits for advertising salespeople?
  - Bonuses, commissions, wellness contributions, company cars, and the possibility of remote work are common.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with moderate job opportunities according to the Employment Service.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an Advertising Salesperson?
  - The highest salary is 61,500 SEK (male, private sector, post-secondary education), the lowest 38,200 SEK (female, public sector).
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, metropolitan regions tend to offer higher salaries than smaller towns.