Description

Route sales representatives represent their organization in the field, selling and delivering products for their organization. They use company delivery vehicles to deliver and sell products to clients, and they must ensure all customers (and prospective customers) have a high-quality customer service experience. Route sales representatives must able to meet deadlines and ensure timely deliveries. They need to meet all sales goals and be able to generate new leads to solicit new business and build their organization's client base.It is essential that route sales representatives know not only this organization’s pricing and inventory, but also the pricing and inventory of the competition. Safety is also important for the route sales representative while operating and parking their vehicle. Additionally, these professionals must be able to learn how to operate a handheld computer system for processing orders.A driver's license is generally required for this position, and employers may require or prefer previous experience in a similar role. Generally, route sales representatives need to be able to lift 25-plus pounds on a regular basis, as well as routinely enter and exit a delivery vehicle. These individuals need to be adaptive and able to change their route when necessary to avoid traffic, accidents, and bad weather conditions.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Route Sales Representative with 9+ years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Manage a designated sales territory, visit existing customers, and establish new business relationships.
  • Deliver products to customers in a timely and efficient manner, ensuring accurate order fulfillment and inventory management.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and recommending appropriate products or solutions.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to monitor market trends, analyze sales data, and develop strategies to maximize sales and achieve targets.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Route Sales Representative, the following qualifications are required:

  • Excellent sales and negotiation skills to effectively promote and sell products to customers, meeting or exceeding sales targets.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal abilities to establish and maintain positive relationships with clients, resolving any issues or concerns.
  • Solid organizational and time management skills to plan and execute efficient routes, ensuring product delivery within specified timelines.
  • Physical stamina and ability to lift and carry heavy loads, as the role may involve loading and unloading merchandise from a vehicle.

Essential Skills For Route Sales Representative

1

Sales Strategy

2

Sales Technique

3

Management Skills

4

Optimization

5

Time Management

Career Prospects

The role of a Route Sales Representative, with 9+ years of experience in Canada, is crucial for sales and distribution functions. For professionals seeking alternative roles, here are four options to consider:

  • Sales Manager: A position that involves leading a sales team, developing strategic sales plans, and driving revenue growth.
  • Supply Chain Manager: A role focused on managing the end-to-end supply chain process, including procurement, logistics, and inventory management.
  • Business Development Manager: A position that entails identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, forming strategic partnerships, and expanding market presence.
  • Key Account Manager: A role responsible for managing and nurturing relationships with key clients, maximizing customer satisfaction, and driving sales growth.

How to Learn

The role of a Route Sales Representative in Canada is projected to experience steady growth in the market in the coming years. According to a 10-year analysis, the demand for this position is expected to increase due to the expansion of industries requiring sales and distribution services. With a growing emphasis on e-commerce and efficient supply chain management, the number of employment opportunities as Route Sales Representatives is likely to rise in the future. While exact figures may vary, Google data indicates a positive outlook for the growth of this job role, making it a promising career option in Canada.