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Sales Representative (Information Technology)

Also known as IT Account Manager, IT Applications Consultant, IT Sales Consultant, Marketing Officer (IT) and Software Consultant.

Sales representatives (IT) promote the sale of computer hardware, software and IT services.

TASKS

Sales representatives (IT) may perform the following tasks:

create customer interest in their organisation's IT products
talk to clients and potential clients to determine the hardware and software needs of their business
keep customers informed of new product developments
create appropriate systems for customers' needs, including software and hardware options
develop proposals and IT solution cost options for customers
manage the sourcing and delivery of products to the customer
provide after-sales support
participate in product development, marketing and client education activities
liaise with IT technical experts, such as analysts, designers, programmers and educators
continually update own knowledge of products

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

good communication skills
neat personal appearance
friendly and confident manner with a pleasant personality
able to persevere
able to understand clients' needs quickly
willing to update product knowledge on an ongoing basis
able to understand and provide information about a large variety of product specifications and applications
strong customer service skills

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a sales representative you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in information, digital media and technology or information technology, as well as have work experience in the information technology area. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a sales representative through a traineeship in Information, Digital Media and Technology or Information Technology.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Alternatively, you can become a sales representative by completing a degree in information technology, information systems or computing. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Membership of the Australian Computer Society is available to those who hold, or are working towards, suitable qualifications. There is a range of membership types available, allowing progression through the various levels as a member's career develops.