What does a Field Salesperson do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A field salesperson's main task is to actively visit customers to sell the company's products or services. The work often involves identifying new business opportunities, creating and maintaining customer relationships, and negotiating agreements. Field salespeople conduct presentations, participate in customer meetings, and are often on the move within their geographic area. The work environment is characterized by a high degree of independence and varied workdays, where flexibility and good planning skills are crucial for success. Contact with customers occurs both physically and digitally, and the role requires a high level of initiative and perseverance.
Salary Development Over Time
The salary for field salespeople has shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK, increasing to 49 600 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 51 300 SEK per month. This represents a total increase of approximately 9.9% over the period. The salary increases can be linked to a continued strong demand for qualified salespeople, increased competition for experienced field sales staff, and a general salary development within the service sector. The industry's emphasis on results, good service, and relationship building has contributed to employers being willing to offer higher salaries to retain and attract competent employees.
Field Salesperson Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (woman, public sector)
- Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month (man, private sector, post-secondary education)
- Hourly wage: 309 SEK
- Women earn: 47 200 SEK/month (89% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 53 000 SEK/month
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and Qualifications
The path to becoming a field salesperson varies, but many employers require a high school diploma with a focus on sales, trade, or economics. Post-secondary education in marketing, economics, or sales can be advantageous, as well as experience in similar roles. Practical experience and social skills are highly valued, and there are opportunities to supplement with courses and certifications in sales techniques and customer management.
- High school diploma: Sales or trade program, approx. 3 years
- Post-secondary education: YH/KY in sales, marketing, or economics
- Certifications/courses: Sales training, communication, business negotiations
- Internship/trainee: Common among larger employers
- Prerequisites: Often driver's license and good computer skills
- Self-study/online: Possible to supplement with digital sales training
A field salesperson often has great freedom to plan their workdays, making the profession attractive for those who enjoy independence and variety. The ability to build long-term relationships and quickly adapt to different customer environments are key success factors. Many appreciate the direct impact on the company's business and the opportunity to see tangible results from their work.
Common Benefits and Compensation
Field salespeople are often offered benefits such as company cars, mobile phones, computers, and sometimes bonus or commission systems linked to sales results. Travel allowances, wellness contributions, and pension provisions are other common perks. Some employers also offer training opportunities and flexible working hours to facilitate work-life balance.
Competition and Challenges
The job market for field salespeople features moderate competition and a balance between supply and demand. To stand out, documented sales experience and good references are often required. Challenges in the role include high performance demands, handling rejection, and staying updated on market developments. Digitalization and changing buying behaviors also increase demands on technical skills and adaptability. Despite this, there are good employment opportunities for those who are engaged and eager to develop within sales.
Tips for Aspiring Field Salespeople
To succeed as a field salesperson, it is helpful to be outgoing and genuinely interested in building relationships. Strong listening skills and understanding customer needs make it easier to find suitable solutions and create long-term collaborations. Good self-discipline is essential for planning and structuring your own work, especially since the role often involves independent days in the field. Persistence and goal orientation help when facing setbacks, as sales often involve handling rejection. Flexibility and quick adaptability are important when the market changes or new products are introduced. Continually developing your knowledge, both in sales techniques and industry trends, provides an extra advantage. Finally, showing engagement and taking initiative can lead to increased responsibilities and better results.
Key Facts about Field Salespeople
- Education level: High school or post-secondary education in sales or economics
- Work environment: Independent, mobile, and customer-facing
- Common work form: Company car and regional travel
- Demand: Moderate opportunities, 550 available jobs nationwide
- Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do in the profession
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After three to five years as a field salesperson, there are often opportunities to advance to roles such as key account manager, sales manager, or business developer. Specialization towards larger customer accounts or specific industries is common. According to the Employment Service, the demand for corporate salespeople – including field sales – is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a continued balanced labor market and approximately 550 job openings nationwide. For those seeking growth, there are good chances to develop within sales, both in private and public sectors, depending on focus and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Field Salespeople
- What is the average salary of a Field Salesperson?
- The average salary is 51 300 SEK per month.
- What is the highest salary for a Field Salesperson?
- The highest salary is 61,500 SEK per month and belongs to a man with post-secondary education.
- What is the lowest salary for a Field Salesperson?
- The lowest salary is 38,200 SEK per month and belongs to a woman in the public sector.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 47 200 SEK, which corresponds to 89% of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a Field Salesperson?
- The most common qualification is a high school diploma with a focus on sales, but post-secondary studies are advantageous.
- What is the demand for a Field Salesperson?
- The demand is moderate, and the labor market is considered balanced according to the Employment Service.
- What benefits are common for a Field Salesperson?
- Company car, bonus/provision, mobile phone, and wellness allowance are common benefits.
