The Sales team profiles are brief Q & A sessions with our Sales team which aim to give insight into the mechanics of the Publishing Sales industry, shed light on what it takes to be part of the Sales team at Oxford University Press South Africa, and give expert advice to anybody interested in joining the world of TVET Sales team in South Africa.
Every week we will be introducing you to a team member from our TVET division. This week we are chatting with Itumeleng Moremi.
Sales Consultant
Q: How did you find yourself following a career in Sales/Publishing?
I have been working in the Education industry for the past 10 years. As a result of that, with the communication skills I possess, I decided to start a career in Sales – specifically in the Publishing industry. I have acquired great knowledge while working in the TVET sector.
Q: Describe your work day – What does your job entail?
My job entails selling textbooks to colleges, researching and capturing information. I am multi skilled as I have to execute sales for the Trade division periodically.
Q: What key traits do you think make a good Sales Consultant?
A good Sales consultant should have good knowledge of the product and the markets they’re servicing and the ability to build good relationships with clients. Time management is critical as well as communicating effectively. Good listening skills and the ability to handle objection and rejection from the market.
Q: What part of your job do you enjoy the most and what would you say is the most rewarding part of your job?
I enjoy being out in the market and unleashing the knowledge I have to generate sales. The most rewarding part of my job is in the Trade market – where you walk in and leave the store with sales.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career in Sales/Publishing?
To have integrity. Be able to communicate fluently without any fear or favour. To be flexible as you have to spend a lot of time on the road travelling from one province to the other.
Q: On a personal note, what is your favourite book and why?
My favourite book is The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. It’s about survival and coming to terms with a horrific event and finding the beauty in life.
