Are you comfortable interacting with strangers over the phone? Do you consider yourself persuasive or charming? Those are the qualities you would need to land a telemarketing job.
Ranked sixth on the U.S. News and World Report’s 2022 Best Sales and Marketing Jobs list, telemarketing has high job satisfaction. That’s because of its flexible work schedule, varied responsibilities, and opportunities for advancement. So if you’re interested in becoming a telemarketer, read on to learn more about the position and the best way to find employment.
What Is Telemarketing?
Telemarketing is an invaluable service to businesses, especially in today’s competitive market. It basically promotes a company’s goods or services. By doing so, telemarketing helps increase customers and revenue for the company.
What Does a Telemarketer Do?
A telemarketer’s job is to make outbound calls to a list of prospective clients on behalf of a business. And since the company provides the list, the potential customers could be local or international.
The primary objective of a telemarketer is to convince those leads they need that company’s product or service. Job duties generally include:
- Using a computerized system to record calls
- Employing a sales script to provide information about the product or service
- Answering customer questions and making follow-up calls
- Completing sales using customized, targeted sales strategies
- Guiding customers through the purchasing process
- Entering customer information into the company’s database
- Fulfilling sales call quotas
Also, telemarketing jobs do not hold hours like a typical 9-5, and they can be performed at a call center or from home.
How to Become a Telemarketer
First, you should assess whether you have what it takes to become a telemarketer. Are you comfortable talking to strangers who may not appreciate your sales pitch during their dinner? Can you work well under pressure or follow instructions properly?
Once you consider if you have the right qualities for the job, you need to fulfill the educational requirements. Telemarketing jobs typically accept high school diplomas or GED certificates. And while it’s not required, completing any sales, communications, business, and basic IT courses can boost your hiring potential.
Next, build your resume to emphasize skills and experience relevant to the position. Telemarketers should have good basic phone and computer skills and some experience in sales or customer service. Additional requirements and qualifications include:
- Strong phone presence
- Quick learner
- Energetic and friendly attitude
- Professional demeanor
- Ability to work in a fast-paced setting
- Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office
- Can pass a background check and drug test
Make sure to demonstrate what makes you a good fit for the role. Even if you don’t have a ton of experience, you may be able to land an entry-level position and gain experience through on-the-job training.
How to Find Telemarketing Jobs
The best way to find employment is to type in “telemarketing jobs” or “telemarketing job near me” on different job sites. You can also sign up with employment agencies that hire a telemarketer. Searching the classifieds or using word of mouth may present opportunities as well.
Telemarketing Job Scams to Avoid
Whatever way you choose to look for a telemarketing job, make sure the employment offer is legit. Some red flags may include if they’re asking you to pay or if company information and job details are vague or nonexistent. Use reputable, well-known job sites and do plenty of research before giving out your information.