Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Making a Living from Sales Commissions

Earning money from a commissions-only sales employment opportunity is certainly possible, but being able to make a living off of it is something that might be more tricky. It takes someone who is determined, glib and very confident to make all of their income off of a sales commission only job, but it is possible. If you are thinking of taking this career path, there are a few things that you need to know. Make sure that before you take the plunge and commit yourself to an opportunity like this that you remember the following facts.

There really are no specific classes or schools that are meant to prepare you for a career in commission-only work, but if you're interested in formal training there are a few things that you should consider. First, think about what you are looking to sell. The commissions-only field will have you selling any number of goods, from computer software to cars, and you'll find that invariably, you'll need to be an expert on the subject. Take some classes at your community college or university and make sure that you are in a position to speak knowledgeably about what you are selling. While you're at it, you might want to consider taking some courses on public speaking as well as some business courses. These are all aimed towards creating a better rapport with the customer and speaking with them in a manner that will gain their trust.

There are many jobs that can be considered commission-only opportunities, and with the advent of the internet, you'll find that some of them don't even require that you leave home. Network marketing has opened the field up and you'll find that there are plenty of websites and multilevel marketing opportunities that will allow you to work at home and sell their product. While you will need to pay an entry fee, you will also be able to take a flat commission from every product that you sell. This is a great way to make a living on your own terms and by your own talents.

Similarly, another type of network marketing job that works on a commission basis involves you getting groups of people together to give them demonstrations based on your products. The products represented in this way range from jewelry to food to kitchen knives, and you'll find that this is a great way to make money on a basis that you choose. Essentially, the opportunities will pay out exactly what you put into them in terms of effort. While some people are on the road practically every day and can make a fairly comfortable living from this sort of work, other people restrict their activities and use the opportunity as a fairly well-paying second job.

If you are interested in a commission-only sales job, think about what your situation is currently like. Be aware that this kind of work is notorious for its highs and lows. When you're doing well, you'll have money to spare, but when you are just getting started or if the economy takes a hit and you're selling something that is perceived as a luxury good, you can expect your pocket book to take a hit as well. How easily will you be able to weather the lean times? If you have some savings to fall back on, or a spouse with a steady job, this can keep things solvent, but also remember to think of things like emergency situations.

There are plenty of commission-only sales jobs in both the United States and Canada, but for the most part, they are maintained by smaller firms. If you are looking for a job like this in this location, you'll often find them in industries that sell large-ticket items, things that, if you make the sale, can pay your rent or your mortgage for a month or more. Look in large appliances, vehicles, furniture and other similar organizations to get started.

There are many reasons to be interested in commission only jobs, but before you get involved, think about what it entails, and what you need to do to make a profit! Think about whether or not you are suited to hard sells and closing deals and make sure that you are in a good place to do both when you think about signing up.

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