Landing a job is all about making a strong impression. Your resume is your first chance to convince a company you’re the top performer they need.

Crafting an effective resume can feel like selling a new product to a skeptical customer, but when you know the steps and take it one by one, it’s easy.

This guide on how to write an amazing sales resume will walk you through writing a clear and impactful profile that gets you noticed.

Writing an Impressive Professional Summary

The professional summary is one of the most important sections of your resume. It serves as a quick overview of your qualifications and sets the tone for the rest of your resume.

In the sales industry, where first impressions are everything, a strong professional summary can grab the hiring manager’s attention and encourage them to read further.

How to Write an Effective Professional Summary

Be Specific: Focus on your sales achievements and skills most relevant to your target industry.

Industry Keywords: Incorporate terms and phrases commonly used in the sales industry to demonstrate your familiarity with the field.

Achievements: Highlight specific accomplishments, such as exceeding sales targets or winning sales awards, to demonstrate your success in previous roles.

Highlighting Your Sales Experience

Your experience section is where you can discuss the details of your past roles and achievements.

Listing and Describing Your Previous Sales Positions

Chronological Order: List your positions in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job.

Clear Job Titles: Use clear and concise job titles that accurately reflect your role and responsibilities.

Detailed Descriptions: Provide detailed descriptions of your duties and achievements, focusing on your contributions to the company’s success.

Emphasizing Achievements and Results

Utilize Action Verbs: Begin each job responsibility/achievement with a strong action verb (improved, led, increased, etc.) to convey a sense of accomplishment.

Quantifiable Data: Include specific numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements. Example:  Increased sales by 40% in Q1 2024.

Focus on Impact: Highlight how your actions benefited the company, such as increased revenue, improved customer satisfaction, or expanded market share.

Examples

Achieved a 35% increase in annual sales by developing and implementing targeted marketing campaigns.

Led a team of 12 sales representatives to exceed quarterly sales goals by an average of 20% through effective coaching and performance management.

Presenting Your Skills

Your resume should include a skills section that highlights the key abilities employers look for in sales professionals.

Basic Sales-Related Skills

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Negotiation: Strong ability to negotiate deals and close sales.

Customer Relationship Management: Proficiency in CRM software and maintaining positive client relationships.

Problem-Solving: Ability to identify client needs and provide tailored solutions.

Time Management: Efficiently managing time and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.

The Importance of Education and Certifications

While experience and skills are critical, your educational background and certifications also play a significant role in your resume.

Listing Relevant Educational Background

Include your highest degree first, followed by any additional relevant education. List the name of the institution, degree obtained, and graduation date (optional).

Highlighting Certifications and Additional Training

Certifications can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.

How Continuing Education Can Strengthen Your Position

Continuing education shows employers that you are dedicated to staying current in your field and improving your skills. Highlight any relevant courses, workshops, or seminars you have attended.

Using a Professional Format

The format of your resume is just as important as the content. A clean, professional layout makes it easier for hiring managers to read and understand your qualifications.

Tips for a Clean, Professional Layout

Consistent Font and Size: Use a professional font (Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman, etc.) and keep the font size consistent throughout the resume.

Clear Headings: Use bold headings to separate different sections of your resume.

Bullet Points: Use bullet points to list responsibilities and achievements, making them easy to read.

White Space: Ensure there is enough white space to make the resume look uncluttered and easy to skim.

Proofreading and Avoiding Common Mistakes

Carefully proofread your resume to catch any spelling or grammatical errors. Common mistakes to avoid include using informal language, including irrelevant information, and making the resume too long.

Tailoring Your Resume for the Sales Industry

Tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the sales industry. Use language and terminology specific to sales to show that you understand the field.

Using Keywords from the Industry

Incorporate sales-related keywords into your resume. This can help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the attention of hiring managers.

Tips for Cover Letters and Additional Materials

Along with your resume, a well-written cover letter can help you stand out. Use the cover letter to expand on your qualifications and explain why you are a perfect fit for the position. Additionally, ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and reflects the same information as your resume.

Final Touches and Next Steps

After submitting your resume, there are a few final steps you can take to increase your chances of success.

Final Review

Before sending your resume, do a final review to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date. Double-check that you have included all relevant experience, skills, and education.

Importance of a Follow-Up After Submitting Your Resume

Following up after submitting your resume shows initiative and enthusiasm for the position. Send a polite email to the hiring manager a week or two after applying to express your continued interest in the role.

Hire Professional Resume Writing Services if Needed

If you are struggling to create an impactful resume, consider hiring professional resume writing services. They can help you create a strong resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile, increasing your chances of landing your desired job.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I include a professional summary on my sales resume?

Yes, a professional summary is highly recommended. It serves as a brief introduction that highlights your key qualifications, sales achievements, and career goals.

How important are keywords in a sales resume?

Incorporating relevant keywords can improve your resume’s visibility in applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Is it necessary to include education and certifications on a sales resume?

Yes, including your educational background and relevant certifications is important. This information can demonstrate your qualifications and commitment to professional development within the sales industry.

Should I send a cover letter with my sales resume?

Yes, you should send a cover letter with your sales resume. It provides an opportunity to highlight your achievements, explain why you’re a good fit for the role, and make a strong first impression.

What should I avoid including in my sales resume?

Avoid including irrelevant personal information, overly detailed job descriptions from unrelated roles, and generic statements that do not highlight your unique skills or achievements in sales.

Remember, your resume is an investment in your future, so make sure it accurately represents the best version of yourself.

If you’re still unsure about how to write an amazing sales resume, contact me via LinkedIn for professional resume writing services.

Visit my website or LinkedIn service page to learn more.