Sales supporter

What does a sales support specialist do? – Tasks and work environment

A sales support specialist assists the sales organization in daily operations and often serves as an important link between salespeople, customers, and other internal departments. Tasks include order administration, customer contact via phone and email, handling quotations, and following up on deliveries and agreements. The role also involves preparing reports, generating statistics, and sometimes participating in marketing efforts. The work environment is typically office-based with a fast pace and quick priority changes, where service orientation and good communication skills are crucial for success.

Salary development over time

The salary for a sales support specialist has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 kronor per month, increasing to 38 500 kronor in 2023 and continuing up to 39 700 kronor in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.1% over the period, with an average annual salary increase of around 3%. The salary trend has been influenced by increased digitalization in sales and higher demands for administrative skills, strengthening the profession’s position in the job market. Meanwhile, demand for skilled sales support specialists has remained relatively stable, reflected in the salary trend.

Sales support specialist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 39 700 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 kr/month (male), 35,500 kr/month (female)
• Highest salary: 48,200 kr/month (male), 40,000 kr/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 239 kr
• Gender differences: Men earn 43 700 kr/month, women 38 200 kr/month (women earn 87% of men’s salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region, but differences are generally moderate

Education and qualifications

To work as a sales support specialist, a high school diploma is generally required, often with a focus on economics, commerce, or administration. Many employers view post-secondary studies in sales or marketing positively, but it is not strictly necessary. Practical experience in customer service, administration, or sales is advantageous and can weigh heavily in recruitment. The role also requires good IT skills and the ability to work with various business systems.

• High school diploma: Business and administration program (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Economics, sales, or marketing
• Certifications: Courses in CRM systems and business communication are advantageous
• Internship/Trainee: Experience from customer service or sales support is a plus
• IT skills: Good computer skills and experience with business systems are required

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, staff discounts, and opportunities for bonuses or commission-based pay are often offered. Some employers also provide flexible working hours, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development through internal or external training.

Competition and challenges

The competition for roles as a sales support specialist is assessed as moderate, meaning there is neither a surplus nor a shortage of labor. Since many companies value experience and industry knowledge, it can be challenging for recent graduates or those without relevant work experience to establish themselves. Digitalization also places increased demands on technical skills and flexibility. The industry is changing, and tasks can be quickly adapted to new business models and technological solutions. For those who are proactive and adaptable to new working methods, there are good opportunities to develop within the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a sales support specialist

To succeed as a sales support specialist, it’s good to combine a structured approach with a strong service attitude. Building good IT skills early, especially within business systems and communication tools, is wise, as these are central to daily work. Being communicative and attentive facilitates customer contact and collaboration with colleagues. Accuracy is an important trait, especially when handling orders and agreements, while flexibility helps meet rapid changes in workload. Showing engagement and being solution-oriented are appreciated by employers and increase opportunities for career development within the role.

Key facts about sales support specialists

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with courses in economics or sales
• Work environment: Office-based, often in teams with customer contact
• Work form: Full-time most common, but part-time or hourly employment is also possible
• Demand: Moderate, with 550 job openings nationwide in the profession
• Special skills: Experience with business systems and customer management highly valued

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a sales support specialist, there are good opportunities to advance to more qualified roles such as sales coordinator, inside sales representative, or marketing assistant. Additional experience and further education can open doors to positions like account manager or team leader within sales and marketing. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, demand for marketing and sales assistants is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and the job market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. The number of job openings in the profession is currently 550, indicating a stable job market but also emphasizing the importance of relevant skills.

Frequently asked questions about sales support specialists

• What does a sales support specialist earn?
  - A sales support specialist has an average salary of 39 700 kronor per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary for sales support specialists?
  - Men earn on average 43 700 kronor, women 38 200 kronor, which means women earn 87% of what men do.
• What education is required to become a sales support specialist?
  - A high school diploma in commerce, economics, or administration is recommended, often supplemented with courses or experience in sales.
• Are there opportunities for advancement as a sales support specialist?
  - After a few years in the role, one can move into positions such as sales coordinator, inside sales representative, or marketing assistant.
• What are the future prospects for sales support specialists?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged, and the job market is characterized by balance, with approximately 550 job openings in the profession.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a sales support specialist?
  - The highest salary is 48,200 kronor per month (male) and 40,000 kronor (female). The lowest is 34,600 kronor (male) and 35,500 kronor (female).
• What personal qualities are important for a sales support specialist?
  - Customer service orientation, accuracy, communication skills, flexibility, and good IT skills are central qualities.