What advice do you have for recent graduates that want to go straight into sales?

For recent graduates that want to go straight into sales, I will immediately high five them and say, "Hell yes!" Everyone is in sales whether you have a quota or not. You're selling your significant other that you want Mexican for dinner vs. sushi. You're selling your kiddos on why attending school is an advantage in the long run. Ultimately, it matters what you W2. Why work harder than your co-workers only to get paid the same as them? A career in sales pays you more for your hard work and growth mindset. Sales is the only careers where you can get up in the morning and determine how much you make.

For recent graduates aiming to jump straight into sales, here’s some advice to set you up for success:

1. Develop a Resilient Mindset – Sales is full of rejection, especially at the start. Learn to view “no” as part of the process and not as a personal failure. The ability to bounce back is key.

2. Hone Your Communication Skills – Whether it’s through calls, emails, or presentations, clear and persuasive communication is essential. Practice active listening and speaking in a way that makes your value proposition stand out.

3. Learn to Empathize with Customers – Understand the customer’s pain points, needs, and motivations. Ask the right questions and be genuinely interested in solving their problems.

4. Master the Art of Research – Sales involves knowing your product, the market, and your customers. Become skilled at researching industries, understanding trends, and positioning your product accordingly.

5. Be Open to Learning & Feedback – The best salespeople constantly improve. Listen to feedback from managers and peers, and seek out mentors who can accelerate your growth.

6. Build Strong Relationships – Networking is essential in sales. Cultivate relationships inside and outside of your company, and always aim to provide value in those interactions.

7. Embrace Technology – Sales is increasingly tech-driven, with CRM tools like Freshworks CRM, email automation, and data analytics playing a big role. Get comfortable using these tools to streamline your process.

8. Set Clear, Measurable Goals – Sales is about hitting targets. Break down your goals (calls made, meetings set, deals closed) into daily actions and hold yourself accountable.

9. Stay Persistent and Positive – The sales journey can be challenging, but persistence, combined with a positive attitude, will set you apart. Stay driven, even when it’s tough.

By focusing on these areas, you’ll lay a strong foundation for a successful career in sales.