I'm sorry to hear.
FYI- Sounds like you were laid off / let go. Being Fired (is for cause- you did something wrong). You're right that if the employer makes the decision to let you go, you can collect Unemployment. Don't quit if you can stand it (and need the unemployment or health insurance benefits).
Regarding Sales--and you may know some of this... there are so many types. Hard sales all about KPIs (and regular deadlines- quarterly, weekly, etc.) whether cold calls- first sales, upselling, etc. . Soft/consultative sales for subscription membership plans (less pressure on KPIs and quarterly goals). Customer success (soft sales or triaging sales calls upward to the "closers" on the team). Customer Service (similar to success), handling questions about products/services. Learning and Development/Training---tied to Customer Success especially if the product requires the user to learn.
If there are subjects, industries, types of jobs, salary ranges that you're interested in, that will help you search. If you hate sales, it may be worth asking what you like instead or what aspect of sales you don't like. For years I thought I didn't like sales, but it really was because I didn't receive training. Once I gained experience, I was the top seller (in Consultative /conversational sales it's all about Relationships, checking in on folks, relating, etc.). If you have strong relationship skills, you could pivot your Sales work to companies that have a softer approach, in house training, and equipment, as well as a team there to support you (they do exist). Another thing to consider is company organization. For smaller companies, you'll wear many hats. For larger ones, you'll have opportunity to learn, advance, and focus on an aspect of a job. For example, Check out the Customer Success Journey and Customer Success Lifecycle. Also check out the Employee lifecycle. Depending on where the customer / employee is on their respective lifecycles, there would be a touch point (either from computer, bot, or human). Typically, the earlier stages in the lifecycle can be where newbies learn.
Sometimes we have zigzag careers, especially in transition periods. Where, it may not be based on extremes like what we like or hate. Sometimes it's practical, like what can I do and how much do I need to earn---and esp. WHO do I know. Sometimes friends and neighbors hear of something and you give it a go and it's a great transition job.
Best of luck.
Share your insight
Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.
7 Comments
Join the conversation