Car salesman

What does a Car Salesperson do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A car salesperson works with selling new and used cars to private individuals and companies. Tasks include meeting customers in showrooms, conducting test drives, advising on financing and insurance solutions, and handling documentation during sales. The ability to listen to customer needs and present the right car model is crucial, as is staying updated on market offerings and technological news. The work often takes place in showrooms, but also out in the field during company visits or events. The pace can be high, especially during campaigns and new car launches, and working hours may vary, often including evenings and weekends.

Salary development over time

The salary level for car salespeople has experienced steady growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK per month, increasing to 31 900 SEK the following year, which corresponds to an increase of about 3.2%. For 2024, the average salary has risen further to 33 800 SEK, representing an increase of just over 6% compared to the previous year. This positive salary trend can be explained by continued strong demand for vehicles and specialized sales skills, while the industry has become more competitive. Adjustments have also been made to attract and retain knowledgeable salespeople, especially as many employers report difficulties in recruiting experienced car salespeople. Despite this, the profession's salary remains at a stable level compared to other sales jobs within retail.

Car Salesperson Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (men), 32,100 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (men), 35,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (34 700 SEK/month for men, 33 200 SEK/month for women)
• Regional differences: Highest salaries are found within regional sectors, while the lowest are usually among privately employed officials

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a car salesperson usually involves upper secondary education in commerce or vehicles, but it’s also possible to enter the profession through experience in other sales or service roles. Many employers prioritize personal qualities and sales experience over formal education, but basic knowledge of cars and understanding of customer service are essential. Further training in sales, certification courses, and product training are often offered internally by larger car dealerships.

• Upper secondary education: Business and Administration or Vehicle and Transport programs (3 years)
• Internship: Work-based learning during upper secondary school or a trainee position at a car dealership
• Courses/certifications: Sales and product training offered by car brands
• Prerequisites: Interest in cars, technology, and customer service
• Further education: Online courses in sales and communication

Common Benefits and Compensation

In addition to base salary, car salespeople often receive performance-based bonuses or commissions, meaning earnings can vary depending on sales results. Benefits such as company cars, wellness allowances, employee discounts on cars and accessories, as well as pension and insurance solutions are common. Some employers also offer training grants and opportunities for travel related to product launches.

Competition and Challenges

The competition in car sales is high, both among different dealerships and between individual salespeople within the same company. Digitalization and increased transparency mean customers are better informed than ever before, which requires salespeople to have extensive knowledge and advisory skills. Technological shifts, such as electric cars and new financing models, demand continuous skill development. At the same time, difficulties in finding experienced salespeople are reported, increasing opportunities for new talents to enter the industry. The work can be pressuring during high sales targets and periods of economic downturn, but also offers good opportunities for personal development.

Tips for those who want to become a Car Salesperson

To succeed as a car salesperson, it’s good to combine social skills with strong drive and the ability to listen to customer needs. Curiosity and a constant desire to learn about new car models and technologies gives an advantage in customer interactions. Initiative is important, as it’s often necessary to seek out new business opportunities and build your own network. Clear communication and a professional attitude are crucial, especially when explaining complex financing solutions or technical features. Being persistent and able to handle setbacks is an advantage, as sales work can be challenging during periods of lower demand. Additionally, a high level of service and honesty are appreciated, contributing to long-term customer relationships and recommendations.

Key Facts about Car Salespersons

• Salary range: 31,200–36,300 SEK/month
• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month (men: 34 700, women: 33 200)
• Education level: Upper secondary diploma, often with specialization in commerce or vehicles
• Typical work form: Full-time with some evening and weekend work
• Demand: Great opportunities nationwide, approx. 550 available jobs

Career Paths and Future Prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many car salespeople have the opportunity to advance to roles such as sales manager, team leader, or product manager within the car industry. There are also possibilities to specialize in corporate sales or to work in training new sales staff. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts for boat and motor vehicle retail salespeople, job opportunities are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by a shortage of experienced full-time salespeople, although many work part-time. Overall, this offers good career development opportunities for those who want to grow within the industry or move into leadership roles.

Frequently Asked Questions about Car Salespersons

• What does a Car Salesperson earn?
  - A car salesperson has an average salary of 33 800 SEK per month, with a range between 31,200 and 36,300 SEK.
• What are the gender differences among car salespersons?
  - Men earn an average of 34 700 SEK and women 33 200 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a Car Salesperson?
  - The most common is upper secondary education in commerce or vehicles, but sales experience and product knowledge are also highly valued.
• Are there many job openings for Car Salespersons?
  - Yes, approximately 550 jobs are available in the retail group of boats and motor vehicles.
• What are the future prospects for Car Salespersons?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, and demand is expected to be unchanged over the next five years.
• What influences the salary of a Car Salesperson?
  - Experience, performance, employer, region, and sometimes educational level affect the salary.
• What benefits are common for Car Salespersons?
  - Bonuses/provisions, company cars, wellness allowances, and employee discounts are common benefits.