Sales Consultant (IT)
Note: Completion of a TAFE SA course does not guarantee an employment outcome. Formal requirements other than educational qualifications (eg licensing, professional registration), may apply to some occupations.
| Job Prospects |
Average; employment for this occupation is expected to grow moderately to 2014-15. |
| Salary Range |
$25,000 to $50,000 plus |
| Brief |
To sell a computer is one thing. To be able to sell the customer the computer they need takes someone skilled in IT.
There are approximately 1,900 IT Sales Consultants in South Australia. Employment is largely full-time and most work in the Property and Business Services industry. Over half of persons in this occupation are males and most are employed in the Adelaide metropolitan area. The main age group for this occupation is 25-34 years. |
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TAFE SA courses that may be relevant for: Sales Consultant (IT)
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Introduction
Keeping track of what's available in the fastest changing industry in the world is always a challenge. The constant changes in hardware and software mean that it is necessary to spend time learning which components will and won't work together. It also helps to have a good knowledge of the latest releases, as there are always customers who want to keep up with the latest technology. IT sales consultants may also be asked to provide basic technical support to customers. Solving people's problems, which can be challenging and learning about new technologies are the most enjoyable aspects.
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Education Requirements
Of those currently employed 15% have Bachelor Degrees or higher qualifications, 10% have either an Advanced Diploma or a Diploma, 16% have either a Certificate III or IV and 53% have no post school qualifications.
TAFE SA offers the following courses to assist you gaining employment in this occupation:
Certificate I and II in Information Technology
Certificate II in Computer Assembly and Repair
Certificate IV in Information Technology (General)
Certificate II in Computer Assembly and Repair
Certificate II and III in Retail
For further information go to the TAFE SA website at http://www.tafesa.edu.au.
Career Path
An Adelaide IT recruitment spokesperson says while there always seems to be a demand for 'good' sales consultants (people who have a proven track record of selling IT products successfully), the level of experience required varies between employers. Several IT retail outlet managers also say that current and future employment prospects are favourable for IT sales consultants. Factors affecting the demand for IT sales consultants include the opening of new IT retail outlets, the expansion of existing outlets and the increasing demand for IT related products. Having gained experience as a sales consultant, it may be possible to advance into management positions.
Industry
Retail Trade
Interview
To be updated.
Nature of the Job
The best way to keep up to date with product information is through the Internet and by reading computer magazines. There are also supports from information technology marketing and advertising specialists. It is a demanding role that involves boosting the company's image through advertising and public relations activities, which increases the demand for equipment and services. Their selling can only be as good as the information and advertising 'pitches' they are provided with by the people in marketing and advertising. An interest in and understanding of computing is essential, as it is the sales consultant's role to help customers better understand the software and hardware sold by the company they work for. People who thrive on being in a constantly changing environment, who like dealing with the public, and who can be diplomatic, could be well suited to being an IT sales consultant.
Typical Physical Working Environment
For those people interested in becoming an IT marketing and advertising specialist, it is important to have excellent oral and written communication skills, and creative flair. You need to be able to meet constant tight deadlines and pay attention to detail. It is also recommended that people complete a marketing degree, if you want to climb the ladder. IT sales consultants generally work from a retail outlet or showroom, where customers are able to view the full range of available products. Hours are usually 8.30am until 5.30pm. Most retail outlets are also open during late-night trading and on weekends.
Typical Occupational Example
The majority of IT sales consultants work in the metropolitan area. The ever-changing world of information technology can make it very confusing for someone wanting to purchase a computer or a new piece of software or hardware. The job of the IT sales consultant is to provide customers with the information they need to make the right choice. Whether they are inquiring about a new game release, or purchasing a computer, customers are guided by IT sales consultants.
Earning Potential
The typical salary for sales consultants is in the $30,000 - $50,000 range. In addition, many are also paid bonuses or commission on sales, so successful sales consultants can make substantially more in a year.
Further Information
For further information about all TAFE SA Courses, phone 1800 882 661 or enquire online