Representative, service company

What does a representative in a service company do? – Tasks and work environment

A representative in a service company primarily works with selling services to other companies, maintaining customer relationships, and identifying new business opportunities. Tasks often include customer visits, negotiations, quotation work, and follow-up on agreed services. The role usually involves a high pace, with travel and meetings being a natural part of the workweek. The work environment is often varied – some days are spent at the office, while others involve visits to clients or participation in industry fairs and networking events. The ability to work independently while collaborating with the team is essential for success in the role.

Salary development over time

The professional group of representatives in service companies has experienced clear salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,700 SEK per month, rising to 49 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary has reached 51 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9.9% over the period. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified salespeople in the service sector and a general appreciation of sales roles requiring strategic and relationship-building skills. Gender differences persist, with men earning more on average than women in the profession, which remains a challenge for the industry. The steady salary growth indicates that employers want to retain and attract experienced representatives, especially as competition for clients intensifies.

Representative, service company salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 51 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 61,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 309 SEK
• Men's average salary: 53 000 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 47 200 SEK/month
• Women earn: 89% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

To work as a representative in a service company, a minimum of a high school diploma is usually required, often with a focus on sales, economics, or marketing. Post-secondary education, such as university studies in business administration or sales and marketing, is advantageous and can provide an edge in recruitment. Practical experience in sales, strong communication skills, and the ability to build long-term relationships are highly valued by employers.

• High school diploma: Recommended: Business and Administration program
• Post-secondary education: College/university, 2–3 years in economics or marketing
• Certifications: Sales training and industry-specific courses are advantageous
• Internship/Trainee: Internships during studies increase employability
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish and English, B driving license often required

Common benefits and compensations

Representatives in service companies often have access to company cars, mobile phones, computers, and sometimes performance-based bonuses. Occupational pension, wellness allowances, and insurance are also common. In some cases, options for remote work and flexible hours are available, depending on the employer and client needs.

Competition and challenges

The competition for the most attractive roles as a representative in a service company is intense, especially in metropolitan areas where many companies operate. The industry is evolving rapidly, requiring continuous skills development and adaptability. Digitalization and changing customer purchasing behaviors have introduced new working methods, where digital presence and CRM system knowledge are central. At the same time, the high demand for experienced representatives means job opportunities are good, but competition for the most profitable clients can be tough. The ability to distinguish oneself through specialist knowledge or niche experience is becoming increasingly important.

Tips for those wanting to become a representative in a service company

To succeed as a representative in a service company, good communication skills and the ability to build trust with customers are essential. A structured approach to work makes it easier to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, so practicing good planning and prioritization is wise. Curiosity and a willingness to learn new things facilitate keeping up with the industry’s rapid development, especially in digital tools. A high degree of independence is required, as much of the work is carried out alone at customer sites or via digital meetings. Relationship building is key, so actively networking and maintaining contacts can be crucial for success. Additionally, a results-oriented mindset where you are driven to reach set goals is valued. Finally, patience and perseverance are important, as sales cycles are often long, and it may take time to see results.

Key facts about a representative in a service company

• Salary range: 38,200–61,500 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with post-secondary studies
• Work environment: Mobile and customer-oriented, often involving travel
• Demand: 550 available jobs, moderate opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of men's salaries in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a representative in a service company, it is common to advance to roles such as key account manager, sales manager, or business developer. For those wishing to specialize, opportunities exist within larger customer segments or specific industries. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service suggest that demand for business salespeople, including this profession, is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years, with a balanced recruitment situation. With 550 available jobs in the profession, opportunities are good for those with the right skills and experience. Digital skills, industry experience, and the ability to understand the customer's business increase chances for advancement and higher salaries further.

Frequently asked questions about a representative in a service company

• What does a representative in a service company earn?
  - The average salary is 51 300 SEK per month, with a range from 38,200 to 61,500 SEK.
• How do gender differences look in salaries?
  - Men earn an average of 53 000 SEK and women 47 200 SEK, which means women earn approximately 89% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a representative in a service company?
  - A high school diploma is often a minimum, but post-secondary studies in sales, economics, or marketing are advantageous.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with moderate job opportunities.
• What common benefits are offered?
  - Company car, bonus, wellness allowance, occupational pension, and flexible hours are common.
• What does the work environment look like for a representative?
  - The work is mobile and customer-focused, often involving travel and independent responsibility.
• What are the career opportunities?
  - Typical next steps are key account manager, sales manager, or business developer.