Is Sales Operations a Good Career?
Sales operations is a job field with potential, but prospective employees may question whether it’s a good career choice for them. To help make an informed decision, here are some of the pros and cons of pursuing a career in sales operations.
Pros of a Career in Sales Operations:
- Ability to use strong analytical skills
- Opportunity to work with a diverse array of customers
- Allowance to work independently and collaboratively
- Excellent job security
- Potential for career growth
Sales operations professionals use their problem-solving skills and knowledge of sales and marketing principles and trends to oversee, analyze and improve sales functions within a company. They often develop and create sales strategies, monitor sales performance and design customer loyalty initiatives. As a result, the job entails independent and collaborative work, and presents employees the opportunity to use both their analytical and interpersonal skills. The job’s excellent job security and potential for career growth are additional perks.
Cons of a Career in Sales Operations:
- Relatively difficult entry-level criteria
- Stressful working environment
- Pressure to produce results
- May involve infrequent business travel
Gaining entry into the sales operations field requires at least a bachelor’s degree and some experience in the sales or marketing sectors. The degree requirement, capped with a stringent screening process, makes the entry criteria relatively difficult. Additionally, the fast-paced work environment can be stressful and intense. As a sales operations professional, you may be tasked with implementing company-wide strategies which require quick and on-target results. You may also be required to travel for client or project meetings, or to meet established goals.
Conclusion
Overall, a career in sales operations isn’t for everyone, yet those willing to take the higher educational and experience requirements, and the daily stress, will surely benefit from the job’s security, growth potential and vast variety of tasks.
