If you're wondering how to get out of sales and pursue a different path, you're not alone.

Sales can be a rewarding but demanding career. Whether you're feeling burnt out, seeking new challenges, or simply ready for a change, transitioning out of the sphere can seem like a daunting task.

However, it's entirely possible to redirect your path toward something that aligns better with your interests, values, and long-term goals. In this article, we'll explore practical steps and strategies to help you successfully navigate this transition.

What are the reasons to get out of sales?

There are several causes why professionals may decide to transition out of sales and seek a new career path.

1. Burnout and stress

The pressure to meet targets, deal with rejection, and constantly perform can lead to high levels of stress and burnout. This can make the job feel unsustainable over time.

2. Lack of work-life balance

The industry often requires long hours, frequent travel, and evening work to close deals, leaving little time for personal life or relaxation.

3. Repetitive nature

For some, the daily grind of cold calls, follow-ups, and pushing products can become monotonous and unfulfilling, leading them to desire a more varied or creative role.

4. Limited career growth

After reaching a plateau, some professionals feel they have few opportunities for advancement within their current organization or industry.

5. Desire for new challenges

Some people simply crave a career change to explore new skills or roles that offer intellectual stimulation, creativity, or a different type of satisfaction.

6. Job insecurity

Sales positions can be highly dependent on performance, which can result in insecurity and unpredictability. This lack of stability can motivate someone to seek a more stable, predictable option.

How to transition out of sales?

Assess your skills

Before making a career change from sales, it’s essential to reflect on your strengths and experiences. Many skills you’ve developed are transferable to other industries and roles. Identifying these abilities will help you target roles.

Sales transferable skills:

  • Communication
  • Negotiation
  • Relationship-building
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Customer service
  • Persuasion
  • Active listening
  • Conflict resolution
  • Project management
  • Adaptability
  • Networking
  • Presentation skills
  • Team collaboration
  • Research and analysis
  • Goal-setting
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Strategic thinking
  • Multitasking
  • Leadership

Identify what you want

Ask yourself:

  • What aspects of sales did I enjoy?
  • What did I dislike about my sales position?
  • Do I want to stay in a customer-facing role, or would I prefer something more behind the scenes?
  • What are my long-term career goals?

Upgrade your education

Depending on the occupation you’re aiming for, you might need to enhance qualifications. Consider taking online courses, workshops, or certifications to make yourself a more attractive candidate in your new field.

For example:

  • If you’re transitioning out of sales to marketing, learning about digital marketing or social media advertising could be beneficial.
  • Project management certifications like PMP can help you move into that field.

Network

Tap into your current network of colleagues, friends, and former clients who may know of job openings in your desired field.

Attend industry events, career fairs, and online meetups to broaden your connections and learn about potential careers after sales. LinkedIn is also an excellent platform for networking and job hunting.

Revise your resume

Once you have a clear direction, tailor your resume for each position to make it clear that you understand the requirements and have the necessary background to succeed.

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Prepare for interviews

Be ready to explain why you’re getting out of sales and what excites you about your new goal.

Practice answering common interview questions while emphasizing how your background in sales has prepared you for the challenges of your new role. Show enthusiasm for the change and demonstrate how your skills align with the position.

Seek support

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about the transition, consider working with a career coach. They can help you identify your weaknesses, refine your job search strategy, and give you the tools to succeed in your career change.

What are the alternative careers for salespeople?

Here are some popular jobs to get out of sales:

McDonald's Marketing Specialist Resume
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Client Account Manager Resume
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Construction Project Manager Resume
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Corporate Event Planner Resume
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Global Supply Chain Manager Resume
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Freelance Creative Small Business Owner Resume
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How do I get out of sales - conclusion

Career transition from sales can be a decision that opens doors to new opportunities and a work-life balance that better aligns with your personal goals and values.

By identifying your transferable skills, exploring alternative roles, and planning a thoughtful strategy, you can confidently step into a new path that makes the most of your strengths.

Remember, transitioning out of sales doesn’t mean leaving your abilities behind—it means applying them in a way that works for you and supports your vision for the future.

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