sales person cover letter sample

Sales Cover Letter Example for 2024 (w/ Templates!)

You've always had a knack for sales, but now you’ve come a long way from making cold calls and practicing your pitch in front of the mirror. 

You’re ready to turn your talent into a full-time gig.

There's just one hurdle left: writing that dreaded cover letter. Staring at the empty page that's supposed to sell your skills and experience feels a lot like standing in front of a tough client you just can't land.

But don't worry!

In this article, we're going to show you how to sell your professional skills, one sentence at a time.

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• What Makes a Great Sales Cover Letter Example
• 5 Steps to Writing the Best Sales Cover Letter
• 3 Essential Cover Letter Tips for Sales Pros

...and more!

So let's close the deal.

Sales Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Sales Cover Letter

You’ve seen what a great sales cover letter looks like. Now it's time to start writing your own . 

Simply follow these tried-and-tested steps:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Kick off your sales cover letter with your personal information right at the top, similar to your resume . Here's the lowdown on what to include:

• Full Name. Your whole name should sit at the top of the document.
• Job Title. Be specific about the sales role you're targeting (e.g. Sales Manager ). This helps the hiring manager sort through heaps of applications more efficiently.
• Email Address. Keep it simple and professional. Your old, quirky email won't cut it. For instance, [email protected] is a no-no, but [email protected] is good to go.
• Phone Number. Make sure it’s correct, and if you're aiming for a job in another country, add the international dialing code.
• Location. Usually, your city and country are enough. But if you're open to remote work or moving, say so.
• Relevant Links (optional). If you have a LinkedIn profile or a portfolio, this is a good spot to include those links.

Next up, list the hiring manager's details:

• Company Name. Put down the company you're looking to join.
• Hiring Manager’s Name. If you can find it, include the name of the hiring manager for the sales department. The company’s website and LinkedIn are good places to look.
• Hiring Manager’s Title. If you learn the hiring manager's official title, use that instead of just "Hiring Manager." For example, the person reviewing your application might be the “Head of Sales”.
• Location. Note the city and country, especially if the company is global. You can get more detailed with the street name and number if you want.
• Email Address (optional). If you manage to find it, throw in the hiring manager’s email as well.
• Date (optional). Include the date you’re writing the cover letter. It adds a touch of professionalism.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've laid down your contact information , it's time to address your cover letter to its intended reader. Skip the old ‘To Whom It May Concern’ —it's a snooze-fest.

First up, do a little digging. Look at the job ad, the company's website, or their LinkedIn page to find the name of the hiring manager for the sales role you're applying for. This way, you'll get their name and possibly their email too.

When it comes to addressing the hiring manager , it's good to be formal but not stuffy. Go for "Mr." or "Ms." followed by their last name. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, just use their full name. Like so:

• Dear Mr. Johnson,  
• Dear Emily Johnson,

If you hit a wall and can't find any details about who the hiring manager or the head of the sales department is, aim your letter at the department or the entire company:

• Dear Sales Department,
• Dear Sales Hiring Team,
• Dear HR Recruitment Team,
• Dear Sales Division Lead,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers usually only take a few seconds to scan each application. That means your opening paragraph needs to be as attention-grabbing as possible.

A good approach is to lead by stating why you're drawn to the sales job. A little enthusiasm for the field or that specific role can go a long way in catching a manager's eye.

Knowing a bit about the company can also set you apart from the crowd. The more clued in you are, the easier it is to show why you'd fit in well with their team. This signals that you're not just applying at random but are genuinely keen on this particular job.

If you've already got some experience under your belt, feel free to open with a big win or key skills that make you ideal for the role. 

That said, keep this part snappy. The aim is to hook the hiring manager into reading more about you, not going into depth about how you made your achievements happen.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The main section of your sales cover letter is where you should get down to business and elaborate on who you are as a candidate. 

Remember - this isn't a place to copy-paste your resume . Instead, aim to showcase why you're the ideal candidate for the sales role you're eyeing by providing additional information.

So, to begin with, avoid repetition. Don't regurgitate your resume; add color to it. Discuss the achievements that prove you're good at closing deals or retaining clients. Look at the job ad and let it guide you. If they're seeking someone who can work in a fast-paced environment, highlight a time you thrived under pressure.

Also, be specific. If the job focuses on B2B sales, point out how you've succeeded in that area rather than discussing your retail experience. This tells the hiring manager that you understand what they're looking for and can deliver on it.

And, as we already mentioned, knowledge of the company is a big bonus. If you understand their sales approach, competitors, or target markets, say so. It shows you're serious about the job and have done your homework.

Need more inspiration? Check out more cover letter examples in this article. 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Ending your sales cover letter on a high note is crucial. This is your last chance to make a lasting impression , so don't drop the ball here.

Start by summarizing why you're the right pick for the sales role. Reiterate your key skills or most noteworthy achievement(s). You've made your case; now wrap it up in a neat package.

Finally, add a call to action. Prompt the hiring manager to do something next, like contacting you for a further discussion. This proactive step can set you apart and enhance your odds of landing an interview.

Lastly, sign off the right way. Keep it professional yet personal. Here's an example of what this could look like:

I’m eager to discuss how I can contribute to your sales targets and team goals. Please feel free to reach out so we can set up an interview at your convenience.

Best regards,

If "Best regards" feels too played out for you, here are other sign-offs you can consider:

• Kind regards,
• Respectfully,
• Thanks for your time,

This last section is your final shot to resonate with the hiring manager. Make it count.

3 Essential Business Cover Letter Tips

You're now up to speed on the basics of cover letters. 

Next up, we'll dive into some must-know tips to take your sales cover letter to the next level, starting with: 

#1. Match Your Resume

Going for that sales position? Then having a sharp application matters.

For that exact reason, get your cover letter to match your resume in style and formatting. A mismatch might come off as unprofessional. 

Keep your information straight and clean on the page, and ensure your fonts are on point from top to bottom. Oh, and while you're at it, get those margins and line gaps just right. Let's keep that cover letter snappy and on one page. 

Pitch yourself perfectly!

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Want to skip all the hassle? 

Our cover letter templates are just the ticket. Use our resume builder while you’re at it, and then match your cover letter to the T. 

Not to mention, with input from global hiring experts, all our templates are top-notch and industry-approved.

Problem solved!

#2. Mention Qualifications

You can't skip talking about your qualifications in your cover letter, especially for a sales job. 

Qualifications aren't just a checklist for hiring managers; they're the building blocks that show you can do the job well. So, dig a little deeper than your resume. 

Sure, your resume says you led your team in sales for three quarters. But in your cover letter, you can say how you did it. Did you initiate a new customer engagement strategy? Or maybe you excelled at cold calls? Make sure to explain it. 

By expanding on your qualifications, you're giving the hiring manager a sneak peek into how you operate and what you could bring to their team. Trust me, they'll appreciate the extra insight, and it might just land you that interview .

#3. Add Any Relevant Links

As an extension of your sales resume , your cover letter is a great place to add any relevant links. 

Sure, your resume might have a section for your LinkedIn or portfolio, but why not make it easy for the hiring manager? 

Direct them straight to the good stuff. Add a line in your cover letter that says something like, "You can see examples of my sales achievements on my LinkedIn profile," and then hyperlink it.

Doing this sends a clear message: you're not just talking about your skills and achievements; you're showing them off in real time. It saves the hiring manager time searching for them and gives them an easy way to learn more about you right away. It's a small detail, but it could make you stand out in a crowded field.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap on what makes a great sales cover letter!

We hope that our guide has made you more confident about writing your own sales cover letter and that you’ll land your dream job right away.

But before we go, let’s recap our most important points from this article:

• Start your sales cover letter by including all your relevant contact information and then fill out the hiring manager’s contact information. Keep this factual, especially your email and phone number. Otherwise, you might miss an interview opportunity.
• Add hyperlinks to your cover letter for convenience. Even if your sales resume already links to your LinkedIn profile or a sales portfolio, you should add them to your cover letter and make it easier for the hiring manager to see them.
• The body of your cover letter is where you should go into detail about what makes you right for the job. Make sure you don’t skip your qualifications—they can make you stand out from other candidates and help convince the hiring manager you’re right for the job.
• Before you send in your cover letter, sign it off professionally. Pick an appropriate closing line and add your full name underneath before sending in your application.

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Sales Cover Letter Tips, Templates, & Examples to Land Your Ideal Role

Published: April 20, 2022

A strong sales cover letter can do a lot for you as an applicant — like demonstrate effective communication skills, show you're invested in the opportunity, and give you room to add some color to your application.

That said, stringing cover letters together is often one of the more grating, monotonous tasks job seekers have to put up with — but while putting a sound sales cover letter together can be a chore , it doesn't necessarily have to be a challenge . There are some key tips, strategies, and structures you can fold into your letters to make them as compelling as possible.

Let's take a look at some of those tricks, review how to arrange your sales cover letter, and see an example of what a solid one looks like in practice.

Sales Cover Letter Tips

Keep it concise..

You should aim to keep your cover letter between three to five paragraphs, and under no circumstances should it be more than one page. Employers fielding a high volume of applications could be leafing through hundreds of cover letters every day. If you're too long-winded — stringing together a multi-page history of your entire professional life — you're going to get overlooked.

Use a professional font.

A cover letter is a professional document, so it warrants a professional presentation. Don't get too cute with your font selection or colors. Go with something like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri — and always have the text be black.

Avoid flowery language without sacrificing flow.

You're not writing an English essay or preparing for a poetry slam here. Again, you want to keep things professional. Avoid flowery phrases like, " At your leisure " or " Please find attached herewith. ” That said, you want your letter to flow and sound natural, so try not to come off too stiff.

Highlight relevant skills.

Pore over the listing for the role you're applying for. What is the company in question looking for? What specific skills and qualities do they call out in the job description? Once you have those questions squared away, try to find ways to include those elements in your cover letter.

Reference quantifiable achievements.

In most cases, employers won't look at the skills you highlight and just take you at your word — you need to point to hard, quantifiable results that demonstrate you're the real deal.

How to Write a Sales Cover Letter

If you’re applying to a conservative company or work in a formal industry — like finance, healthcare, or law — include a full heading: Your name and address, followed by a space, the date, followed by another space, and the company name and address.

But if you’re applying to a less formal place, you can probably get away with simply writing your name and email address — followed by a space and the company's name and email address.

Maybe you’re not sure who will be reading your cover letter — but don’t write " To whom it may concern, " " Dear hiring manager, " or any other generic title. With a little research, you can usually find the hiring manager’s name.

Let’s say you’re applying for the SMB Account Executive role at Joyfull. Google "SMB sales manager Joyfull" and see if you can find the team’s leader on LinkedIn. When applying to a conservative company, write “Dear Mr./Ms. [Last name].” When applying to a startup or relatively relaxed organization, write “Dear [First name] [Last name].”

Your intro paragraph should highlight why you’re a great fit. It’s a high-level overview, rather than an in-depth exploration of your work history and qualifications, so keep it under four sentences.

The standard cover letter opening line is something along the lines of:

"I’m interested in becoming a sales representative on your SMB team " or " I'm excited for the opportunity to apply for the SMB sales representative role. "

While these sentences might not kill your chances of getting the job, they generally don’t help. You want to grab the reader’s attention and sell yourself from the very start — so don't be reluctant to try a personalized, compelling line that will draw the hiring manager in and make them want to read more.

Here are a few examples:

" I love working with small businesses — in fact, I’ve helped more than 300 in the past year at my current job — which is why I’m so excited about the chance to help SMBs discover Joyfull. "

" Every week, I write a blog post about a common SMB challenge. Helping SMBs overcome this obstacle isn’t just rewarding -- it’s also a great lead gen strategy. My passion for this type of work led me to your SMB Account Executive position. "

Do you know a current or former employee who speaks positively about the company? Mention them in your intro. In some cases, you might have their referral — either by submitting your application or connecting you with the hiring manager — but even if you don't, you can still drop their name.

For instance, you might say something like, "As a self-starter who thrives in autonomous, results-oriented environments, I’m drawn to the BDR role at Red Shelf. I’ve heard great things about the culture and learning opportunities from Sarah Grossman, who started as a BDR and now works on your L&D team."

First Body Paragraph

In this paragraph, choose a relevant work experience. What does "relevant" mean? You’re trying to show your existing abilities and knowledge map well to the role you’re applying for, so if you currently work in retail and you want to become a business development rep, you might write:

" As a floor associate for Wilson & Co., I help 60-plus customers every day with questions about brands, fit, quality, and more. This experience has taught me how to provide a positive customer experience and be helpful while driving sales — both skills I’d use as a HubSpot BDR. Finally, it’s made me comfortable approaching strangers and acting as a product expert, which would be invaluable when reaching out to inbound leads. "

Second Body Paragraph

The second body paragraph follows the same structure as the first. Take another relevant work or educational experience, and connect the dots to the role you’re applying for. Imagine you’re currently an AE applying for a manager position. Your second section could read:

“ In the past 16 months on the Pacific West team, I’ve taken several opportunities to grow my leadership abilities. I started a mentorship program for new reps, pairing them with salespeople who have been at the company for at least two years. This program has been a huge success — the half-year retention is 20% higher for participants versus those without mentors. As a sales manager, I’d continue to look for ways to support, mentor, and train my salespeople so they can maximize their potential. "

Third Body Paragraph

If you have another relevant experience, discuss it here. But you don’t have to add a third paragraph just for the sake of adding one — a lot of the time, a shorter cover letter is better, provided you can convey an appropriate amount of relevant information.

Let’s suppose you’re applying for a sales engineer role — a highly technical and demanding job that likely warrants a three-paragraph cover letter. You could say something like:

"After spending two years in customer support, I’m in my element when answering product-related questions. There’s nothing I enjoy more than getting a challenging ticket I can dig into — and there’s nothing more satisfying than finally solving it. As a sales engineer for HubSpot, I’d get the chance to talk to customers about the product on a daily basis and answer their most complex questions. In addition, I could use the communication skills I’ve honed as a support rep."

This section doesn’t need to be long or flowery. Many people end with unnecessary statements like, "Please let me know if I can provide any more information” or "Thank you for your consideration."

The problem with these? A hiring manager can safely assume you’ll give more info if asked and are appreciative of their time. You’ll seem like every other applicant who’s grabbed a generic template from the internet — which, okay, you might be doing, but they don’t need to know that.

Instead, reiterate your interest with a strong summary line like:

“The best days at work are usually the longest and most demanding — because I go home knowing I’ve helped multiple owners dramatically change the course of their businesses. Your hyper-loyal user base suggests being a Joyfull AE comes with even more opportunities to help young and growing organizations.”

Sales Cover Letter Template

Dear Jane Doe,

I’m passionate about [helping X type of customer, solving Y goal, working in Z industry] — which is how I found the [open position] at [company name]. The more I learned about [company’s] mission to [insert mission here, i.e. “improve the remote working experience,” “make personal finance easy”], the more excited I became. My [applicable skill #1 and applicable skill #2], as well as experience in [field] and knowledge of [related topic], would make me an asset to the [department, i.e. “Customer Development”] team.

As a [title] at [current employer or skill], I’m responsible for [doing X and Y]. This has helped me develop [ability] -- in fact, [insert proof of your skill, e.g. “my boss recently said I was one of the most resourceful employees he’s ever had” or “I’m known for my ability to stay collected and take the lead during high-pressure situations.”] I’d use [X skill] as your [job title] to [achieve main objective].

I’m also [skilled in X/possess Y and Z positive traits], which comes from my [previous work or extracurricular experience]. [In that role, on that team], I developed a knack for [skill/traits]. This was instrumental in [hitting specific milestones/exceeding expectations]. You’re looking for someone with [X skill/character traits], and I believe I’m a good fit.

Over the past [number of years], [company] has [accomplished X goal, such as “become a leader in the CRM space” or “used creative marketing and social media campaigns to become a household name in Colorado.”] It looks like you have ambitious goals for the future -- I hope I get the opportunity to contribute.

[Your name]

Sales Cover Letter Example

Why It Works

This cover letter is effective for a few reasons. For one, it speaks directly to how the applicant's hard, quantifiable achievements align with both the role's required technical acumen and the more abstract qualities needed to thrive in it.

By alluding to the fact that they're familiar with the vertical the role serves, the applicant establishes the relevance of their experience — and by touching on elements like their experience with mentorship, they're demonstrating their growth potential within the role.

If you're in the middle of a job hunt, odds are you're going to write your fair share of cover letters — so knowing how to put a compelling one together is in your best interest. It might be the difference between ultimately landing a sales role and not even popping up on an employer's radar.

Don't forget to share this post!

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Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

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Sales Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Selling your skills in a sales cover letter is an art. In this hustle-bustle of the sales world, we've got handy tips, success-proven examples, and ready-to-use templates just for you. It's time to skillfully display your accomplishments, showcase your expertise, and strategically position your skills.

In this comprehensive guide, we teach you everything you need to know about writing a great sales cover letter. Keep reading to learn about:

• Navigating real-world sales cover letter examples
• Formatting your sales cover letter the right way
• Creating your sales cover letter header and headline
• Including personalized information in your sales cover letter
• Writing a strong sales cover letter introduction to impress employers
• Showcasing your top skills and accomplishments as a sales professional
• Using powerful action words in your sales cover letter
• Encouraging employers to contact you in your cover letter conclusion
• Avoding common pitfalls in a sales cover letter
• Pairing your sales cover letter with a resume
• Understanding the average salary and job outlook for sales professionals
• Finding the best job search resources for sales professionals

Sales intern cover letter example

Why does this intern cover letter sample work?

• Strong academic record:  The candidate impressively highlights their strong academic record and active participation in extracurricular activities related to the field. This paints a picture of a dedicated, active learner.
• Detailed work experience:  There's a well-detailed section on the candidate's previous sales internship experience, explained with activities and achievements that is relevant to the position they're applying for.

What could be done better in this cover letter example?

• Length and clarity:  The cover letter's length is overwhelming and some sentences are over-complicated. Breaking down the long paragraphs into bite-size sections with clear, concise sentences would improve readability.
• Personalization:  The opening addresses "Recruiters" and could seem impersonal. If possible, finding the name of the hiring manager or specific department to address would be more engaging.
• Active language:  Although the applicant's achievements are impressive, they could be presented more energetically with active, compelling verbs. Rather than stating tasks completed during the internship, focusing on the impact of those tasks would be more powerful.

Sales coordinator cover letter example

What are the strengths of this cover letter example?

• Relevant experience:  The candidate effectively presents a strong background in Sales Coordination. Their reference to specific responsibilities paints a picture of a seasoned sales professional.
• Academics and language skills:  Including academic qualifications and language proficiency is a plus point, it provides essential information about their ability to handle the demands of a sales role.

What aspects could we improve?

• Responsibilities over achievements:  The candidate describes job responsibilities instead of highlighting achievements or contributions that affected the business positively. It would be better to use bullet points to spotlight impactful accomplishments, rather than responsibilities. 
• Lack of quantification:  The candidate doesn't specify any numbers in terms of sales growth or the successful outcomes of their strategies. This missed opportunity leaves the employer guessing their actual impact.
• Active language:  The cover letter could use more active language and power words to bring their sales initiatives to life. For instance, instead of 'prepared contracts', using 'spearheaded contract preparation' would sound more dynamic.

Sales lead cover letter example

What makes this cover letter sample effective?

• Bulleted achievements:  The applicant includes bullet points to detail their achievements rather than responsibilities. Highlighting achievements gives an empirical snapshot of their competence.
• Quantification of success:  The applicant provides concrete numbers and figures about the results they've achieved, providing a tangible sense of their contribution and success.
• Awards and recognition:  Mentions of awards and accolades, such as "Sales Lead of the Year," successfully showcase the candidate's recognized performance in previous roles.

Points to work on

• Generic salutation:  The opening "Dear Hiring Manager" could be more personalized. Addressing a specific contact would create a warmer, more personal opening.
• Long paragraphs: Although the letter includes great examples and achievements, the long paragraphs make it slightly more difficult to read. Breaking these down further would improve readability.
• Specific skill application:  While the letter mentions skills such as tenacity and negotiation, grounding these traits in specific examples within their sales experience could have made the assertions more compelling.

1. Properly format your sales cover letter

Formatting is for a cover letter what presentation is for a product — it sets the first impression and makes it shine amidst the competition. Below are some basic guidelines on how to make your sales cover letter smooth to read and easy to navigate:

• Choosing a professional font: Stick to traditional fonts like Times New Roman or Arial and aim for a standard font size between 10 to 12.
• Use of white space:  Break down your cover letter into distinct sections with clear boundaries and use bullet points where necessary. It makes the letter easier on the eye.
• Alignment:  Maintain left alignment throughout the document. It gives the letter a professional and streamlined look.
• Length:  Aim for a one-page document. Your ability to convey important information concisely is a virtue in sales.
• Margins:  Stick to a 1-inch margin on all sides. Nobody wants text cramped to the edges.
• File format:  If emailing, save your cover letter as a PDF file to preserve the formatting across various devices.

Remember, a well-formatted cover letter isn't just about making it look nice — it's about making it easy for hiring managers to spot your key selling points.

Let your cover letter write itself — with AI!

2. create an effective sales cover letter header and headline.

Writing a cover letter as a sales professional requires more than just eloquence — it also requires you to have a strong understanding of how to give a letter visual flow and appeal .

As a sales professional, you know that to win a sale, you must first hook the customer’s attention. The same goes for applying for a sales job. You must give your cover letter a strong structure, making it easy for employers to find the most important and relevant information that will convince them to hire you.

This task is achieved through the use of a cover letter header and cover letter headline .

Your header comes first, placed at the top of the document, and lists the following:

• Your name, along with your contact information including your email, phone number, location, and LinkedIn profile link
• The recipient's name and title, as well as the company name and the company's address. 

Bad cover letter header example

  Mary Allen , Sales Pro [email protected]

Why is it ineffective? This header falls short of professionalism through the use of a too-casual email address and missing key contact information such as phone number, LinkedIn profile, and physical address.

Good example of a sales cover letter header

Mary Allen , Sales Professional (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Troy, MI 48098 | linkedin.com/in/mary-allen

To: Peter Sales, Hiring Manager Logans Window Manufacturing, Inc. 1234 Street Address Savannah, GA 31302

Why does this example work?  It demonstrates a well-rounded header, providing a professional email address, phone number, address, LinkedIn profile, and clear recipient details. It offers multiple routes of contact and demonstrates attention to detail and personalization.

After you have completed your header, you will then write your cover letter headline .

A headline can serve many purposes, including:

• Hooking the reader’s attention
• Highlighting the most important points of the letter
• Creating separation between the header and main body text

Bad cover letter headline example

Sales Professional Seeking Exciting New Opportunities

Why is it weak? This headline is not awful, but it's generic, self-focused, and doesn’t provide any specific value the candidate brings to the company.

Good cover letter headline example

Sales Professional with a Track Record of 120% Quarterly Target Achievement

Why does it work? This headline catches attention by presenting a concrete achievement that indicates the candidate's capability and dedication. "120% Quarterly Target Achievement" quantifies their performance, making their success tangible and believable.

Selling starts right from the headline. So, ensure it reflects your ability to deliver results, leading the reader down a paper trail of your professional prowess.

3. Include personalized information in your sales cover letter

Think about the last time you received a letter. More than likely, the words contained in that letter were highly specific to your life and the relationship between you and the person who wrote it.

The same should go for your professional cover letters . Writing cover letters that are generic and non-specific won't impress employers enough to land you your ideal job. Instead, you should research the employer thoroughly to find exact details, such as company goals or values, that you can reference.

Moreover, you should always try to discover who at a company will read and review your cover letter. Once you have determined this, address your letter to this person directly in a personalized greeting .

Here are 3 examples of personalized sales cover letter greetings

• Dear Ms. Jane Doe,
• Dear Head of Sales Jane Doe,
• Dear Ms. Jane Doe & the Sales Team,

Should your detective skills fall short and the hiring manager's name elude you on LinkedIn, the company website, or any other sources, fret not. You can resort to these general, yet professional, salutations:

General greetings for your sales cover letter

Dear Hiring Manager,  Dear [Company Name] Sales Team,

And one more piece of advice: Although "To Whom It May Concern" may seem like a safe fallback, it's often perceived as outdated and impersonal. It can indicate that you didn't make the effort to find the hiring manager's name and makes your cover letter less targeted.

4. Write a strong sales cover letter introduction to impress employers

Just as the opening pitch in a sales meeting can make or break a deal, the introduction of your sales cover letter can decide your career future. The opening lines must pique interest, enticing the reader to venture further.

To make a cover letter introduction strong and compelling, it is essential to include:

• A concise summary of your professional history (always include specializations when possible!)
• A clear statement on why you are applying for this position
• A mutual acquaintance or reputable professional reference (mutual acquaintances make the best professional references, as the employer already knows and trusts them)

Bad example of a sales cover letter opening paragraph

I'm writing to apply for the sales position. I've spent many years in sales and I'm now looking for new opportunities. I feel confident that this job aligns with my skills.

Why is this example weak? This opening lacks specificity, fails to provide any measured performance, and seems more self-focused. It also doesn't leverage any connections to the company, making it a forgettable introduction.

Good cover letter introduction example from a sales cover letter

I am a sales professional with 5 years of specialized experience selling used and new automobile components to dealerships and auto mechanics. My mentor, Mr. John Johnson, is a dealership owner in your city and is a longtime client of your company. Mr. Johnson let me know about this opening at your company and strongly recommended I apply due to my highly relevant skill set.

Why does this opening hit the mark?  It delivers a concise yet detailed professional summary, mentions a specific reference, and specifies why the candidate is applying for the role. It's personal, tangible, and sets the stage for demonstrating the candidate's suitability for the role. It certainly is a compelling way to start a sales cover letter. 

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5. Showcase your top skills and accomplishments as a sales professional

Hooking the employer’s attention in your introduction is only the beginning. From here, you must write concise body paragraphs that delve into your top skills and accomplishments as a sales professional.

To keep your body paragraphs well-organized, make sure to use short sentences that are easily skimmable by the employer. Additionally, you can also organize some information with bullet points, such as a list of your most notable accomplishments in a sales role, to make it more readable and scannable.

As you describe your skills and accomplishments, make sure to include enough detail to make it clear why these specific qualifications are included.

For example, do not just say you have great customer service skills. Instead, explain what kind of communication style you possess and how it has benefited customers in your previous positions. Your goal is to show employers the value you can bring to their company.

Here are 6 skills to describe in a sales cover letter

• Sales account management
• Sales tactics
• Product and inventory management
• Communication (describe your exact communication style)
• Customer service

Skillful highlighting of your sales accomplishments can make your cover letter a persuasive pitch rather than a run-of-the-mill job application. Sequencing your abilities and successes in a logical structure can lend your narrative credibility and appeal. 

Here's an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a sales cover letter

As a sales professional at [Former Employer], I achieved the highest number of closed deals in the department, meeting my sales goals for each quarter by 125%. Additionally, I helped onboard 5 major new clients, increasing overall revenues by 30% annually.

6. Include powerful action words in your sales cover letter

In the sales world, as in your cover letter, words carry a lot of weight. Action words , or verbs, are particularly potent: they paint a vivid picture of you 'in action', showcasing your abilities and achievements in a dynamic and compelling light.

Weaving action words throughout your cover letter can bring your experiences and skills to life , making your case more persuasive. By choosing words that convey energy and initiative, you can create a greater impact, just like a successful sales pitch.

Here's a shortlist of power-packed action verbs for your sales cover letter

• Outperformed

Remember, it's not j ust about the words you choose, but the compelling sales story they help you tell. Let these action words lend you the verbal strength to close the deal on your dream job.

7. Build a strong sales cover letter conclusion

Your last key step in writing a sales cover letter is to encourage the employer to contact you quickly in your conclusion . While you don’t want to make the employer feel rushed, reiterating that you are excited to hear from them and how they can best reach you will help persuade them to contact you promptly.

Always include a formal sign-off in your conclusion to show respect and appreciation to the employer.

Bad cover letter conclusion example

Hope to get a response from you soon. Thanks for considering my application. Contact me anytime.

[Applicant Name]

Why does it fall flat? This conclusion lacks enthusiasm and doesn't provide specific contact availability. The tone comes off as indifferent, leaving the employer with a weak impression of the candidate's interest.

Here is an example of a good conclusion from a sales cover letter

It brings me great excitement to be considered for this position on your team and I look forward to hearing from you soon. The best time to reach me is between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. any day of the week. As I am eager to speak with you further about this opportunity, I plan to reach out next Wednesday afternoon if I have not yet heard back.

Kind Regards,

Why is this conclusion effective?  It reinforces the applicant's eagerness for the role, sets expectations about a follow-up and also provides a window of convenient contact time. It maintains a professional yet enthusiastic tone, showing respect and interest by planning a follow-up. The formal sign-off adds a finishing touch to a well-composed sales cover letter.

8. Avoid common mistakes in your sales cover letter

The trick to perfecting your sales cover letter lies as much in avoiding some common pitfalls as in including all the right elements. Here are a few mistakes you should steer clear of:

1. Being too self-centered: Remember, your cover letter is also about the company and how you can contribute to it.

• Bad example: "I am excited to apply to this job as it will be great for my career."
• Good example: "I am excited to apply my sales expertise to improve the already stellar performance of your sales team."

2. Leaving a passive closing: A salesperson is proactive. Show them that drive in your closing too.

• Bad example: "I'm looking forward to hearing from you."
• Good example: "I'm eager to further discuss how I can bring value to your team. I'll follow up on the coming Tuesday."

3. Submitting without proofreading:  Typos or grammatical errors can quickly tarnish the impression you're trying to build. Double, or even triple, check before you submit .

4. Rehashing your resume:  Your cover letter should complement your resume, not copy it. Use it to tell a story and showcase your strengths.

• Bad example: "As stated in my resume, in my previous role, I generated a 50% increase in sales."
• Good example: "In my previous role, I pioneered a new sales technique, leading to a 50% uptick in sales."

5. Being too vague: Be specific about your skills and successes. Numbers often speak louder than words in the sales world.

• Bad example: "I have a good track record in sales."
• Good example: "Over the past two years, I've consistently exceeded my sales targets by at least 20%."

6. Failing to match the company tone: If the company presents itself informally, an overly formal cover letter might feel out of sync. Research the company and adjust your tone accordingly.

7. Not addressing the relevant person: Always try to find a specific contact person. "Dear Hiring Managers" is a last resort, not a first choice of greeting.

Accurate self-presentation is key. So sell yourself just as thoughtfully and passionately as you'd sell a product. With a well-crafted cover letter, you're one step closer to closing the deal on your dream job.

9. Pair your sales cover letter with a resume

Just like a perfectly matched shirt and tie, your sales cover letter and resume make a powerful combination. They have distinct purposes yet complement each other when crafted well.

Here's the difference in a nutshell:

A resume is a factual summary of your skills, experience, and education. It’s a snapshot of your career highlighting the who, what, and where of your professional journey.

A sales cover letter , on the other hand, adds personality to these facts. It’s your opportunity to explain the why and how of your career path. Here, you can tell your story, express motivations, and articulate fit with the company.

Creating a seamless visual experience by using the same design, fonts, and color scheme for both documents is vital. Not only does it provide a sense of cohesion and professionalism, but it also fortifies your personal brand.

Remember, consistency in presentation fosters trust and recognition, both of which are crucial in sales. So, think of your cover letter and resume as a power couple, best when together, yet each holding their own individually.

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10. average salary and job outlook for sales occupations.

According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average yearly salary for sales professionals was $35,290 in May 2022. This salary reflects a range of sales roles, from retail sales workers to real estate brokers.

While the overall employment in sales occupations is expected to decline from 2022 to 2032, do note that this doesn't close the door to opportunities. Quite the opposite, in fact. An average of about 1.8 million openings are projected to appear each year within the same period.

While market fluctuations can impact sales job availability, the turnover rate in the industry creates constant new opportunities. Regardless of the changing dynamics, sales professionals who can adapt, upskill, and deliver consistently can definitely find promising opportunities.

11. Top job search resources for sales professionals

The journey to landing or advancing in a sales career can be complex and competitive, but you don't have to navigate it alone. A wealth of resources are available to assist, educate, and inspire you. Here are a few suggestions:

• Networking:  Engage with sales professionals in your field and broader industry. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to make connections. Sign up for industry conferences and seminars. You might learn about unadvertised opportunities or gain valuable insights.
• Professional organizations:  Join a professional body such as The National Association of Sales Professionals . Such organizations often provide training, certifications, and professional development opportunities.
• Job websites:  Leverage websites specifically designed for sales job seekers like SalesHeads.com  and   Rainmakers .
• Continued learning:  Keep expanding your knowledge. Online learning platforms like Coursera , Udacity , and LinkedIn Learning offer sales-specific courses. Remember, in a dynamic field like sales, continuous learning is key.
• Industry publications:  Subscribe to trade magazines and sales-focused publications like Selling Power and Sales and Marketing Management . These provide industry trends, tips, and success stories to learn from.

Remember, your career in sales is a journey of growth and adaptation. Keep exploring, stay curious, and continuously refine your hitting-the-target skills. Sales is about relationships — and that includes the one you have with the industry itself. Connect with it, learn from it, and let it guide you through your career progression.

Sales Cover Letter FAQ

Absolutely. Each job posting will have its own unique requirements and company culture. Customizing your cover letter to reflect those specifics shows the hiring manager that you've done your homework and genuinely care about this specific opportunity.

Start by maintaining a professional tone and language throughout. Then, weave in your personality through real-life examples of your achievements, work ethic, and passion for sales. Remember, you want to come across as a real person, not a robot.

It depends on the company and role. If your research shows a company with a more informal, fun culture, a touch of tasteful, professional humor might work. However, don't force it. Your main objective should always be to present your skills and experiences effectively.

Focus on transferable skills such as communication, negotiation, customer service, and leadership that are relevant to sales. Include examples of these from non-sales positions or situations. Show eagerness to learn and adapt.

If your research doesn't reveal a specific name, you can use a general but professional salutation. Aim for a title-specific greeting like "Dear Sales Team Hiring Manager" over a generic "To whom it may concern."

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as  The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.

Subcategories

• Account Executive
• Real Estate
• Sales Director
• Salesforce Administrator
• Sales Manager
• Sales Representative

All sales cover letter examples

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15 Sales Representative Cover Letters That Will Get Hired (NOW)

Are you are looking to write a cover letter for Sales Representative jobs that will impress recruiters and get you noticed by hiring managers? You need one to apply for a job, but you don’t know what to say.

Cover letters are a necessity when applying for a job. They give the potential employer insight into who you are and why you would be a good fit for their company. A cover letter can also help to ease the decision-making process by providing an explanation of your qualifications and why you would be a great fit.

Here are 15 amazing Sales Representative cover letters that are professionally written and will help you stand out and get that job!

Sales Representative Cover Letters

Each cover letter is written with a different focus. Review all of them and pick the ones that apply to your situation. Take inspiration from multiple samples and combine them to craft your unique cover letter.

Sales Representative Sample 1

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a Sales Representative with experience in marketing and sales, I am confident that my skills will contribute to the success of your company. I am passionate about helping people find the best solutions for their needs and am eager to work with your team. My goal is to provide excellent customer service while also identifying new opportunities for growth.

Sales Representative Sample 2

My name is _______________________________________ and I am interested in the Sales Representative position . My qualifications include:

Strong communication skills, including both written and oral. Willingness to travel extensively outside of the office. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Nimble mind for adapting to constantly changing demands.   Ability to work well in a team environment.

Sales Representative Sample 3

I am applying for the Sales Representative position with the ____ company. I possess a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on sales and management. My experience includes working for _____ company as a sales representative, where I create ads, cold call potential clients, and manage my territory to exceed goals. I am looking forward to developing new skills in this position and hope you will consider me for the role.

Sales Representative Sample 4

My name is ____________. I am writing to express my interest in the Sales Representative position you recently posted on ____________. My degree in Business Administration has taught me that relationships are key to success, both personally and professionally. I am eager to become part of a company that values excellence, teamwork, integrity, diversity and professionalism.

I believe my skills as a salesperson would be an excellent fit for your organization’s needs. Specifically, I have eight years of experience generating new business through establishing rapport with potential customers on the phone or on site. Furthermore, I am committed to exceeding expectations by providing outstanding service at every opportunity while maintaining open communications with all stakeholders involved throughout the transaction process

Sales Representative Sample 5

Dear Manager,

I am writing to inquire about your Sales Representative position at ABC Company. I am a hard working and dedicated individual and would like to be considered for this position. My experience includes:      • Achieving an average of $1,000 in monthly revenue on my own

• Maintaining a professional appearance on the job at all times Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sales Representative Sample 6

I am a qualified Sales Representative with experience in the field. I have an intimate understanding of the market and am eager to work with your organization. As a Sales Representative for the past six years, I have handled complex sales contracts worth millions of dollars while managing an aggressive quota. My skills are geared towards developing new relationships while engaging current customers on new opportunities. I am committed to exceeding expectations by meeting deadlines and providing quality service no matter what it takes. Additionally, my interpersonal skills are excellent as evidenced by my ability to foster trust among individuals on both sides of the table. If you want more information about me feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or email me at abcdefg@

Sales Representative Sample 7

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing in response to your advertisement for the Sales Representative position. I am confident that my experience and skills would be an excellent match for this position. I have an extensive background in sales for both technology and business-to-business companies. My customer service is excellent, with many past employers praising me for understanding their needs and providing their clients with quick responses at all times of day. My passion is helping others succeed, which I believe would translate very well into the Sales Representative role at your company. Please consider me for this position so that I can use my skills to contribute to your company’s success. Thank you!

Sales Representative Sample 8

Dear ___________, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to become your next Sales Representative. I am knowledgeable, assertive, dependable and team oriented. Sincerely, My name is Jane Doe

Sales Representative Sample 9

I am writing to express my interest in the Sales Representative position that was posted on your website. I have 10 years of sales experience and am confident that I can deliver excellent customer service and quality products, which is one of the most important aspects of this role. I would really like the opportunity to interview for this position and discuss how my skills could be a valuable asset to your organization. Thank you for taking the time to read my inquiry and if you wish to learn more about me please feel free to contact me at (the email address).

Sales Representative Sample 10

Dear HR Manager, As a Sales Representative with a proven record of success, I feel I am a great candidate for the open Sales Representative position. My years of experience in customer service and sales have shown that I am excellent at developing relationships with clients and providing them with quality products. This is evidenced by my many loyal customers, who have been shopping from me for over seven years. In addition to understanding what customers want, I also understand how to create effective business partnerships in order to achieve our shared goals. My goal is to be the best Sales Representative possible for you and your company so that we can both succeed – please consider me as your next hire! Having seen the attributes in myself that make me a successful candidate for this

Sales Representative Sample 11

Dear Sir or Madam:  

I am writing to apply for the position of Sales Representative. I am a recent college graduate and have two years of experience as a customer service representative. I am confident that my educational background and professional experience make me an excellent candidate for this position, as my performance reviews mention that “he always goes above and beyond.” My attention to detail, strong work ethic, and enthusiasm for sales would be a great addition to the team.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and attention. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sales Representative Sample 12

My name is ________, and I am interested in the Sales Representative position you advertised on Indeed.com. I am very familiar with this market, as my previous employer was a small construction company that specialized in residential housing. My experience includes high-quality customer service, negotiation skills, and excellent organizational skills. I am confident that these skills would make me an excellent candidate for this position. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Sales Representative Sample 13

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to apply for the Sales Representative position you advertised. I believe my extensive customer service experience will allow me to be an excellent fit for this position. Moreover, I would like to share my recent resume with you so that you can see my qualifications in greater detail. Thank you for your consideration and I hope to hear from you soon.

Sales Representative Sample 14

Sales representative sample 15.

Recruiters and hiring managers receive hundreds of applications for each job opening.

Use the above professionally written Sales Representative cover letter samples to learn how to write a cover letter that will catch their attention and customize it for your specific situation.

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22 Sales Resume Examples That Landed Jobs in 2024

• Sales Resume
• Sales Resumes by Experience
• Sales Resumes by Role

Writing Your Sales Resume

Sales are the lifeblood of any growing company. Without sales, companies grow stagnant—or worse, fail. But with a good sales department, a company can truly thrive.

You know how to care for customers, present solutions to problems, and adapt to any situation. Unfortunately, getting a new sales job involves more than just a short resignation letter at your current job and being stellar at what you do.

You shouldn’t have to create an effective resume or write a sales cover letter alone, which is why we’ve analyzed hundreds of professional resumes and created 22 sales resume examples just for you. These examples have helped salespeople get hired by companies like Google and Facebook , and they’re here for you to achieve the next role of your dreams in 2024.

Sales Resume Example

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Why this resume works

• Whether your most significant impact was in total sales, conversion rate, retention rate, or lead generation performance, it doesn’t matter—numbers speak louder than words, so include them whenever you can!

Sales Assistant Resume

• Find a way to include metrics to really sell your skills!
• Don’t just say you used a certain skill; demonstrate how you used that skill. For example, did you use your organization skills to stock many items? 
• Pack your resume objective with proactive language that shows your eagerness for growth and improvement. If you’re looking for a career-building role, then say exactly that!

Entry-Level Sales Representative Resume

• Sales is a people management game. If you have charm and patience, that’s much more valuable in the eyes of the hiring manager than an impressive educational background.
• You can also include a  resume objective  to mention some of your accomplishments and skills right off the bat; if you choose to do so, make sure you tailor it for every job to which you apply.
• If your education is your strongest area, include your minor, GPA, and any relevant courses you’ve taken.
• If you’ve worked on several projects, make room to include them on your resume in place of work experience.

Experienced Sales Associate Resume

• Your true competence as a sales associate shines through the most when you mention how you effectively calmed angry customers and offered practical, compassionate solutions.
• If you’re not overly familiar with a skill, leave it out—honesty is the best policy, and many skills are easy to learn on the job.

Experienced Retail Sales Associate Resume Example

• If you don’t have past retail experience, don’t fret; use the positions you have to highlight transferable skills, like time management, customer service, and problem-solving.
• Instead of just listing responsibilities, include any achievements, too. Were you a top salesperson in your store? Did you increase your customer review rating? Did you cross-sell effectively and increase revenue? All of these are great examples to include!

Senior Sales Analyst Resume

• Include a  resume summary  (also called a career summary) if you can boast 10+ years of field experience. Make it a concise, customized snapshot of yourself by including your specializations, defining expertise, and mentioning the target business by name.
• You can include the number of employees you manage or mentor, the rate at which you’ve increased revenue, the rate at which employees have hit sales targets during your tenure, the number of departments you collaborate with, the number of monthly presentations you give, and any other metrics that showcase how you’ve improved company performance.

VP of Sales Resume

• A good example is the training program you initiated, which boosted team morale and overall productivity by 38 percent.

Executive Sales Resume

• The ATS, the gatekeeper of applications, has a thing for resumes with conventional sections (think work experience, education, certifications, and skills) sprinkled with keywords mentioned in the job ad. Eligible terms for a sales position range from Salesforce, Tableau, and LinkedIn Sales Navigator to Mailchimp.

Pharmaceutical Sales Resume

• Did you help expand market share? Did you leverage technology to help close more sales deals? Add all that in and sit back as your past success elevates your candidacy to the top of the shortlisted applicants.

Insurance Sales Resume

• Highlight how you’ve tapped InsurGrid, NowCerts, ClearSlide, etc. to improve customer service, and attract and retain customers. Also, back your competencies with realistic figures that underscore your impact.

Tech Sales Resume

• Be bold, like Asher, in showing off to what extent your skills and knowledge contributed to the company’s sales department.

Sales Representative Resume

• Make sure every section of your sales representative resume is easy to read and distinguish by either capitalizing them, bolding them, or using a colored font.
• Any mistakes will be easy to see and will hurt your chances of getting an interview. So, always  check your resume  before you submit it!

Sales Manager Resume

• Focus your work experience on your sales achievements and management expertise. Even if you have no sales management experience, you can still show off your sales skills and leadership qualities wherever it was that you worked. 
• When you can, include metrics that quantify your success. Saying you conducted meetings is one thing, but conducting meetings that resulted in a 14% increase in leads is another.

Digital Sales Representative Resume

• A  good resume template  will help you structure your content effectively, but be aware of spacing—even a good resume template won’t help if your text is too tiny to read or spreads into the margins.
• If you’re stumped on what numbers to include, consider these options: response time, the number of active accounts, size of the average account, churn dollars, team size, ROI, social media post engagement, the number of products you know, and how many awards you’ve won.

Sales Strategist Resume

• There are many  good resume examples  if you know where to look, and they can help you break out of your writer’s block funk. Take a look and get some inspiration!
• Moreover, you can ask some co-workers to help you, too! They can help you decide what metrics to include and how to sound confident but not arrogant.
• For example, if you’re a senior-level employee, you don’t need to include much in your education section, but you should include more work experience bullet points.
• However, if you’re new to the field, you can include your GPA and educational awards while minimizing your work experience in favor of projects.

Sales Consultant Resume

• A strong network on LinkedIn indicates that you’re good at building professional relationships, which is an essential element of sales.
• If you haven’t updated your LinkedIn in a while, make sure you do that as soon as possible.
• For example, you can talk about unveiling events for clients, creating working relationships, and building up networks. These details demonstrate that strong customer rapport is, in fact, a skill you possess.

Sales Engineer Resume

• For example, if the job you’re applying to emphasizes the importance of using CRM software or building long-lasting relationships with customers, emphasize these skills in your skills section. 
• Focus on including hard skills similar to the ones used in the  sales job description .
• If you’re just starting your career in sales engineering OR transitioning to a different type of role, include an objective.
• If none of the above applies, leave it out in favor of more work experience.

Director Of Sales Resume

• Don’t forget to list accomplishments related to leading people and building customer relationships, starting by recording how many customers you helped or how many people you led. Then look for percentages relating to KPIs from there.
• If you’re stuck on what to include in your  resume skills section , go back to the  sales job description  and see what soft skills they require, whether explicitly stated or implied.

Outside Sales Representative Resume

• Good examples include the number of new accounts you opened, conversion rate, retention rate, lead generation performance, and overall growth.
• Sales revenue is the main statistic related to every sales position, but make sure you venture outside the box to include other metrics, too.
• You’d be amazed at what tiny typos and punctuation errors can slip through without your noticing, and employers will appreciate your attention to detail!
• Run your resume through a  resume checker  or spellcheck system, then proofread it again with your own eyes.

Software Sales Representative Resume

• For example, did you exceed your sales quotes, and if so, how many times? How much did you increase profits for the company? 
• Provide details that prove you can boost numbers at the next company you’ll work for!
• If you can, shoot for half and half between technical and soft skills, but if you’re an entry-level candidate, it’s okay to have more soft skills.
• As a software sales rep, you should include the programming languages you know, plus soft skills like “negotiation” and “interpersonal communication.”

Fragrance Sales Associate Resume

• For a successful career in sales, you’ll want your communication and persuasion skills to shine just as brightly as your technical knowledge. Be sure you include some of both in your fragrance sales associate resume .

Sales Development Representative Resume

• Sales are all about the numbers. When you’ve brought about tangible positive results at your past workplaces, it speaks to how effective you are as a salesperson and should be touted in your sales development representative resume .

Related resume guides

• Sales Associate
• Sales Representative
• Sales Manager

Proper formatting ensures your resume is readable, logical, and complete. If you neglect the formatting, you risk potential employers not taking your application seriously (or not even seeing your resume). When it comes to formatting, remember the following: 

• Choose one of three resume format options 
• Draw attention to your resume header 
• Make your sales resume accessible for the ATS and employers

Overall resume format options

Hiring managers’ preferences tend to change over time, but for 2024, it’s clear that three  resume formats  are the most popular:

• Reverse-chronological format:  This format emphasizes your most recent experience by placing work experience toward the top of your resume. Ordering your experience this way highlights career growth and development.
• Functional format:  A functional format stresses skills over work experience. This type of format may be appealing if you have little work experience or if there are gaps in your employment. 
• Combination/hybrid format:  This type combines reverse-chronological and functional formatting, placing equal weight on job history  and  skills, but it can be hard to read because of this.

Though all three types are popular,  hiring managers prefer   the reverse-chronological format . It’s easy to read, underscores career growth, and looks honest regarding your job experience. 

Draw attention to your resume header

Presenting your contact information may seem unimportant. However, this is the most important information in your resume; without it, how can you expect hiring managers to tell you “you’re hired?” Don’t make the mistake of underestimating the importance of an accurate and beautiful resume header.

Start by aligning your header either to the left or center. Then write your name in a large font size so you can see it from far away.

Right below your name, include your job title in a slightly smaller font. Then if you like, you can tastefully add some color to show your personality. (We love cobalt blue and buttercup yellow, but we’re a bit biased.)

Underneath your name and title, list your contact information. Keep the text the same font size as the body of your resume, and consider including a border (with or without color) to make it pop. This section should include:

• Your email (make sure it’s professional and not something like “[email protected]”)
• Phone number (with an area code)
• City & State (optional but recommended)
• Professional links to portfolios or sites like LinkedIn (optional but recommended)

Make your sales resume accessible to the ATS and employers

Once you upload your resume to an online job application, it won’t go straight to a hiring manager’s desk. Instead, it will go through the ATS, or Applicant Tracking System software.

This system uses keywords in your resume to determine your likelihood of being a good fit for a particular sales job. If you don’t pass the ATS scan, it’s doubtful you’ll get an interview.

To get past the software and reach human eyes, pay attention to:

• Margins:  Use standard half-inch or one-inch margins all around.
• Fonts:  Use professional, easy-to-read fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Georgia. 
• Font sizes:  The body of your resume should be the smallest font at around 12-point, your job title should be 20-point font, and your name should be approximately 24-point font.
• Header names:  Instead of adjusting font size for section headers, try bolding them or using all caps. 
• Skills:  You can list them in a horizontal or vertical list; we recommend using bullet points in a vertical list unless you lack space. 
• Logical order:  As we suggested earlier, we recommend a reverse-chronological format since it’s easy for the ATS to scan. 
• One page:  You must fill one page  exactly . You can slightly adjust fonts, font sizes (just a touch), vertical spacing, and margins to hit this target.

If you’re struggling to  build your resume  with enough content and proper formatting, remember this: the most important thing is to  ensure your resume is read . If you have to cut content to keep your formatting easy to read, do it.

Do you really need an objective or summary?

Contrary to sources floating around the internet, there  is  a difference between a  resume objective  and a  resume summary . Both are short paragraphs written explicitly for every application you submit, but there are a few key differences between them. 

An  objective  identifies why you’d like to work for the company under the specific job title for which you’re applying. A  summary  highlights the skills you possess and what achievements you’ve earned within your past positions.

Objectives and summaries are strictly optional, but there are a few instances where adding one would help.

• Consider including an objective if you’re seeking an entry-level role or are transitioning careers.
• Consider using a summary best suited if you have 10+ years of sales experience.

Customized resume objective:  Seasoned floor salesperson with 4+ years of experience hitting sales 7% above targets. Seeking a position with Neiman Marcus, where my specialization in high-end retail will continue the tradition of upholding the highest standard of luxury retail experiences for clientele. 

• This objective is specific to the job and includes a customized job title, quantified metrics, specific skill sets, and the company name. It adds real value and will impress any hiring manager.

Poor summary statement:  Dedicated applicant with experience in sales and marketing looking for a sales associate role to improve customer service skills. 

• This statement is anything but specific, and it could be on any number of sales resumes. More than just that, it doesn’t highlight any skills or qualifications beyond dedication. Major yikes.

Customized summary statement:  Results-driven sales associate with 13+ years of experience developing rapport and good customer relations. Leveraged top marketing strategies to yield results, performing in the top 5% of sales associates at all workplaces for over a decade. From informing customers about purchases to designing trending storefront decor, I am confident that my proven excellence in results-driven sales strategies would positively impact the movement of products at Decor 101. 

• This summary statement is customized and unique, including specific skills and quantifiable metrics to support their claims; this candidate is a top choice for an interview.

Know what to include in your job experience section

When writing your sales resume, you may be tempted to include every job you’ve had since you were 16. Though this may be an appropriate choice if you have limited job experience, we recommend including two to four highly relevant jobs on your sales resume if you have more experience. 

Write your work experience bullet points purposefully

When you write your work experience section, remember that space is crucial. To take up less room, use bullet points to break up chunks of text. Start each bullet point with an action verb, such as “oversaw” or “championed,” to drive your value (and cut filler).

Using action verbs will also lay the foundation for using active (rather than passive) voice. For example, a passive sentence like “The store was closed by the sales team” sounds weak and boring. Active voice gives agency to the subject and shortens the statement: “The sales team closed the store.” 

Avoid personal pronouns when writing about your experience, such as “I” or “we.” Ending punctuation is up to you—just be consistent. (Avoid having periods at the end of all your bullet points except for one, for example).

Finally, keep your verb tense in the past, and make sure it’s consistent.

Good bullet points can look like any of these examples:

• Executed an outbound calling strategy to warm leads, leading to a close rate of 16%, which exceeded targets by 50%
• Implemented and expanded the use of Salesforce, saving over 18 hours of weekly manual reporting time by sales staff
• Led initiatives for prospective home buyers to improve brand awareness and increase inbound customer interest, resulting in a $275,000+ increase in incremental revenue

These bullet points are successful because they start with action words, maintain an active voice, avoid personal pronouns, and are consistent with punctuation and tenses. 

Getting these things correct is tricky, but you can return to this guide anytime to review these tips!

Use numbers to your advantage

You may have noticed that all the bullet point examples we included contain numbers. Metrics are essential for any resume, but especially your sales resume. Words tell hiring managers you’re good at your job, but numbers show undeniable value. Include quantified metrics within at least 50 percent of your bullet points. 

Here’s how:

• Performance relative to targets:  Have you ever or do you consistently outperform sales targets? By what percentage do you exceed targets on average? 
• Improvements per customer:  Do your customers have higher purchase totals than others? Are they making more repeat purchases than customers helped by other sales associates? What’s your close rate? 
• Efficiency standards:  How many customers do you help on average, per hour, day, or week? How long does it typically take you to make a sale? How many seconds does it take you to greet customers? 
• Customer relations:  How many customers have reviewed you positively on customer surveys? Have any customers mentioned you by name in positive reviews?

It helps to see these tips in practice, so here are some examples: 

• Improved the shopper-to-customer conversion rate of the store by 6% by prioritizing immediate customer service of inbound customers
• Responded to customer questions with a detailed understanding of products, resulting in a customer satisfaction rating of 96%
• Recognized as a Top 5% Salesperson in the most heavily trafficked Kay’s store in Maine 
• Exceeded annual membership targets by 23% by encouraging a compassionate, customer-centered approach

Select appropriate sales skills for your resume

The skills section is one of the shortest sections on your resume and one of the most mysterious. Unfortunately, the ATS plays a big part in this section since it scans your resume for pre-selected keywords.

Not enough keywords? Not the right keywords? ATS wins, 1 to 0. 

We’re here to shed light on this mystery using a simple trick. When writing your skills, choose those mentioned in the  sales job description . Of course, don’t include every skill they list, but use the job description to guide your strengths.

Ideally, include a mix of both hard and soft skills for a total of six to 10 skills. Hard skills are easier to measure, so we recommend listing mostly hard skills. However, soft skills, such as “organization” and “customer service,” are critical in a sales role, so include a few that match your abilities. 

Let’s put this trick into practice! Here’s an excerpt from a sales job description: 

Seeking qualified sales associates! Our ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced work environment and can maintain a positive, upbeat attitude with co-workers and customers under stressful situations. Must utilize standard software to track and follow up with leads. Should be charismatic, comfortable with public speaking, and have a solid ability to memorize merchandise details and answer complex customer questions. We serve a predominantly Hispanic population, so Spanish speakers, please apply! 

From this job description, we can create a list of skills that would be particularly appropriate for this job position: 

• Salesforce and HubSpot CRM
• Bilingual (Native English, Fluent Spanish) 
• Customer relations
• Interpersonal communication
• Product knowledge 
• Sales demos and pitches
• Time management 

 No matter the job you’re applying for, you’re likely to see some of these skills: 

• Cold-prospecting 
• Negotiation
• Work stream management
• Trend forecasting
• Traditional lead-generation
• Presentations 

Education, certs, interests, and hobbies

In sales, employers typically only require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, specific educational requirements will vary widely in such a large field. Some employers will seek applicants with a bachelor’s degree in business or even an MBA. 

So in your sales resume, list your highest level of education. If you have a graduate degree, you can include both it and your undergrad degree.

If you have any certifications or additional training, such as software certification for a particular type of CRM, you can include that, too, although it isn’t required.

Typically, sales professionals don’t include an optional  interests and hobbies section on their resumes , but there are a few circumstances where it may be appropriate: 

• Hobbies can demonstrate that you’re the type of person a potential customer might enjoy chatting with, which is a bonus for employers.
• Use projects, like volunteering or academic extracurriculars, in place of work experience if you’re light on jobs. 

Here’s an example of what projects could look like on your sales resume:

Tailor your sales resume to the job description

Remember to customize your resume  every time  you apply for a job. Tailoring your resume to the job description is the best way to land an interview quickly.

Start by reworking your resume objective or summary statement (if you have one). Then adjust your skills section to include skills relevant to the role. Finally, adjust your job description bullet points to include relevant qualifications. 

For instance, if a job description mentions they’re looking for a sales representative who can begin giving presentations on day one, emphasize your comfort in public speaking roles. Highlight your previous presentation experience, and perhaps de-emphasize the data analysis skillset that is less relevant to this job. 

Pro tip:  You can keep a master list of bullet points for each job title in a separate document . Write down as many skills and responsibilities as you can for every job title, and organize them based on their emphasis (time management, customer relations, data analysis, etc.). Then you can pull from this document to create fully-customized resumes quickly. 

Edit and polish your sales resume

When finished  writing your resume , it’s tempting to submit it immediately, but it’s best to take a step away first. Give your eyes and mind a rest for a day, and send your resume to trusted family and friends for review. Then you can adjust your content and  check your resume  for errors before you submit; that way, you don’t miss the little details you may have inadvertently overlooked!

Ready for the Next Step?

The first step to having an interview-ready, professional sales resume is to take the time to research and prepare. Congratulations on helping out your future self by using our guide! 

Our easy-to-use  resume builder  will allow you to build your resume from the ground up with perfect formatting, so you can save serious time and focus on your next sales job. If you’re ready to find out how your resume stacks up, use our  resume checker  to give you AI-powered suggestions to polish your resume to perfection. 

We know that wherever you get hired, you’ll be helping customers and growing revenue in no time!

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