Sales Development Representatives

High School

You’ll need at least a high school diploma to work in most sales positions. In high school, take classes in marketing, sales, English, speech, mathematics, psychology, business, and economics to help build a wide range of knowledge and skills that will serve you well—whether you decide to go on to college or head straight from high school to a career.

Postsecondary Education

A growing number of salespeople have associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in sales, marketing, or related fields. Some areas of sales work may require specialized college work. Those in engineering sales, for example, usually have a college degree in a relevant engineering field. Other fields that demand specific college degrees include pharmaceuticals and drugs (biology, chemistry, biotechnology, or pharmacy), chemical sales (chemistry or chemical engineering), and office systems (accounting or business administration).

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificates in sales, marketing, communications, and other related fields. For example, Cornell University offers a certificate in sales growth to students who complete the following classes: Discovering Sales Growth Opportunities, Getting the Most From Your Sales Efforts, Winning With Your Key Accounts, Sales Negotiation to Maximize Value, and Managing Sales Performance for Growth. Contact schools in your area to learn more about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Many professional associations offer continuing education webinars, in-person classes, and other educational opportunities that help SDRs develop their skills and keep up with industry developments. For example, the National Association of Sales Professionals, offers Sales 101, an online, six-week program that “provides a psychology-based foundation for understanding, influencing, and transforming sales behaviors.” Visit https://www.nasp.com/programs/sales-101 for more information. The Manufacturers’ Agents National Association, Manufacturers’ Representatives Educational Research Foundation, National Association of Sales Professionals, The Sales Association, and Sales Management Association also offer professional development opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.