What does a data salesperson do? – Tasks and work environment
A data salesperson works with selling data solutions, services, and products to companies and organizations. The role involves identifying potential customers, conducting needs analyses, presenting technical solutions, and closing deals that are often complex and require a good understanding of both technology and business benefits. The work environment is generally office-based but also includes client visits, digital meetings, and sometimes travel. Data-driven sales require high technical insight and communication skills, especially in collaboration with customers and internal specialists.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, data salespeople's salaries have shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK per month, increasing to 49 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 51 300 SEK, an increase of about 10% over three years. This development reflects the growing demand for skilled sales in digitalization and data-related services, as companies invest more in tailored IT solutions. The increasing market complexity and need for specialized competence have contributed to rising salaries, especially for experienced data salespeople with a technical background.
Data sales salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (female, government sector)
- Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage (average): 309 SEK
- Men's average salary: 53 000 SEK/month
- Women's average salary: 47 200 SEK/month
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 89% of what men do
Many data salespeople develop deep expertise within a specific industry or technological platform over time, making them invaluable advisors for both clients and internal development teams. Technical competence can be as important as sales experience for succeeding with complex deals.
Education and qualifications
To work as a data salesperson, a post-secondary education in IT, technology, or economics is usually required, often supplemented with courses in sales or business development. Many employers value industry experience and technical understanding, but it is also possible to build competence through internships or relevant certifications. Industry-specific knowledge and an interest in digital solutions are highly meritorious.
- Post-secondary education: 2–3 years in IT, technology, or economics
- Courses/certifications: Sales training, technical certifications (e.g., Microsoft, AWS)
- Internship/trainee: Common in larger companies
- Prerequisites: High school diploma, often technical orientation
- Self-study/online: Possible via industry-specific providers
- Tips for choosing: Combine technical and business skills for increased competitiveness
Common benefits and compensations
Data salespeople are often offered benefits such as company cars, bonus or commission schemes, wellness allowances, and pension contributions. Other common compensations include mobile phones, computers, and opportunities for remote work. In some cases, profit sharing or educational grants are also provided.
Competition and challenges
The competition for the most attractive roles as a data salesperson is intense, especially among leading IT and technology companies. The role demands both technical understanding and commercial ability, making it challenging to stay updated on new technologies and rapidly changing markets. Increasing complexity in customer needs requires continuous skills development and the ability to build trust in business relationships. At the same time, digitalization means new actors and business models can quickly change the landscape, making adaptability and initiative essential for long-term success.
Tips for those who want to become a data salesperson
To succeed as a data salesperson, it is good to combine curiosity with a strong desire to understand customers' business needs and technical challenges. Good communication skills facilitate presenting complex solutions simply and convincingly, while attentiveness helps build long-term relationships. Being results-oriented and self-driven is crucial for driving deals from initial contact to closing. The ability to quickly learn new technologies and adapt to market changes provides a clear advantage. Collaboration skills are also important, as data salespeople often work closely with technical specialists and project teams. Finally, the role benefits from high integrity and credibility, which strengthen trust with customers and employers.
Key facts about data salespeople
- Educational level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years) recommended
- Work environment: Office-based with elements of client visits and digital meetings
- Work form: Full-time, often with variable salary components
- Demand: 550 available jobs within the profession of corporate sales
- Special skills: Combination of technical and business competence
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a data salesperson, opportunities open up for roles such as key account manager, business developer, or sales manager within the tech sector. Specialization in a particular industry or technological platform is common and can lead to roles in product management or consulting. The labor market forecast from the Employment Service indicates that demand for data salespeople will remain stable nationally over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation. For those combining technical expertise with business acumen, prospects for advancement and specialization are good, especially in fast-growing areas like cloud services, AI, and data analytics.
Frequently asked questions about data salespeople
- What does a data salesperson earn?
- The average salary for a data salesperson is 51 300 SEK per month.
- What is required to become a data salesperson?
- Post-secondary education in IT, technology, or economics, along with sales experience, is recommended.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 89% of men's salaries in the profession.
- What does the job market look like for data salespeople?
- Nationwide, there are 550 available jobs, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for data salespeople?
- The highest salary is 61,500 SEK per month, and the lowest is 38,200 SEK per month.
- What benefits are common for data salespeople?
- Common benefits include company cars, bonuses, wellness allowances, and opportunities for remote work.
- Can you work as a data salesperson without technical education?
- It is possible, but technical understanding is a significant advantage and often a requirement from employers.