Salesman, professional market

What does a salesperson in the professional market do? – Tasks and work environment

A salesperson in the professional market works with selling products and services to companies, organizations, and professional customers rather than to private individuals. Tasks include everything from identifying and contacting potential clients to building long-term business relationships, negotiating agreements, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Often, responsibilities also include order management, product presentations, advising, and sometimes technical support. The work is performed both on-site in stores or showrooms and at customer locations, resulting in a varied work environment where meetings, travel, and digital communication are common. Salespeople in the professional market are expected to have good product knowledge and understand their customers' business needs to offer suitable solutions.

Salary development over time

The salary development for salespeople in the professional market has been clearly positive over the last three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,900 SEK, while it increased to 31 900 in 2023 and reached 33 800 in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of about 9.4% over three years, which is higher than the average salary growth in many other sales professions. Factors driving the increase include high demand for skilled salespeople in retail and the professional market, as well as employers competing more aggressively to attract experienced staff by offering better conditions. Education level, specialization, and the ability to build customer relationships have also contributed to raising salaries within the profession.

Salesperson in the professional market salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, less than 9 years of education)
• Highest salary: 36,300 SEK/month (male, regional sector, up to 2 years of high school education)
• Highest salary for women: 35,800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for women: 32,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 203 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of what men do (33 200 SEK vs 34 700 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a salesperson in the professional market, formal university education is usually not required, but a high school diploma with a focus on trade, economics, or technology is common. Many employers value experience in retail or B2B sales, and product knowledge within the specific area is often a requirement. Certifications, internal training, and courses in sales, negotiation techniques, and customer care can provide competitive advantages in the profession.

• Education: High school diploma with a focus on trade, economics, or technology (3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in sales, product knowledge, and negotiation techniques
• Internships: Work-based learning or trainee programs are common
• Prerequisites: Previous experience in sales or customer contact is advantageous
• Further education: Opportunities for self-study and online courses in sales and industry-specific product knowledge

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for salespeople in the professional market include commission-based pay, company car or car allowance, wellness allowance, mobile phone, and sometimes bonus programs for meeting sales targets. Other appreciated compensations include pension contributions, insurance, and employee discounts on the company's products or services.

Competition and challenges

Competition for the most attractive positions in the professional market is evident, especially in metropolitan areas where many companies seek qualified salespeople. The industry is also characterized by high expectations for results, which can lead to pressure and constant development demands. Salespeople often encounter customers with very specific requirements, which places high demands on knowledge and adaptability. Success requires business acumen and resilience, and the work environment is often mobile with many travel days and varying working hours. Digitalization and new sales channels also mean that the profession is changing rapidly, which can be challenging but also an opportunity for those who want to develop.

Tips for aspiring salespeople in the professional market

To succeed as a salesperson in the professional market, it is good to be communicative and attentive, which facilitates understanding customer needs and presenting solutions. A strong drive and goal-oriented work approach make it easier to reach sales targets and handle periods of high tempo. Flexibility is also central, as workdays often vary between customer visits, meetings, and administration. Being curious and eager to learn new things is appreciated by employers, especially since product ranges and market conditions change quickly. Precision and the ability to document and follow up on deals are other important qualities, as well as the ability to collaborate and build long-term relationships both internally and externally.

Key facts about salespeople in the professional market

• Education level: High school diploma (trade/technology/economics)
• Work environment: Customer visits, store/showroom, and office
• Demand: Large opportunities for work, 550 available jobs in the profession
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of men's salaries
• Work form: Full-time and part-time available, many commission-based roles

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a salesperson in the professional market can advance to roles such as key account manager, sales manager, or product specialist. Specialization within specific industries, such as construction, technology, or vehicles, is common and can lead to more qualified and higher-paid positions. The Public Employment Service's forecasts show that job opportunities are large nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties are also reported, especially for full-time positions, which means that those with the right skills and experience have good chances to find work and advance in the field. There are also opportunities to work internationally or start your own business within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about salespeople in the professional market

• What is the average salary for a salesperson in the professional market?
  - A salesperson in the professional market has an average salary of 33 800 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked over time?
  - The salary development has been positive in recent years, with an increase of about 9.4% from 2022 to 2024.
• What education is required to become a salesperson in the professional market?
  - A high school diploma with a focus on trade, economics, or technology is most common, but experience also weighs heavily.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like for salespeople in the professional market?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, with about 550 available jobs in the profession right now.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - High demands on product knowledge, results, and adaptability are common challenges for salespeople in the professional market.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities to advance to key account manager, sales manager, or to specialize within a specific industry.