You're looking for a technical sales job. How do you make sure you find the right one?

Have you ever been good at something, but you didn't enjoy it? Skills are important, true, but often times in a technical sales job, the "want to" is more important than the "how to". Do you want to do the role, help the company, move your career in this direction? If the answer is yes (or even, "Hell, yes!") that motivation can be a powerful indicator - and the first step in the pursuit of any goal. Assessing your skills can begin with a simple question: What do you need, right now, to take the next step? Do you need a better understanding of AI, or Microsoft's ecosystem, or Cisco's Meraki product line? The want to drives the how to. What needs to be done, right now, so that you can get one step closer to the opportunity? Start there.

To find the right technical sales job, you can follow these steps: 1.Self-assessment: Start by assessing your skills, experience, and interests 2.Research: Conduct thorough research on the companies and industries that interest you. 3.Network: Leverage your professional and personal network to connect with individuals who are already working in technical sales roles or are familiar with the industry. 4.Job boards and career websites 5.Tailor your resume and cover letter 6.Prepare for interviews 7.Evaluate job opportunities 8.Ask questions 9.Seek feedback 10.Trust your instincts By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding the right technical sales job that matches your expertise, interests, and career goals.

Assess Your Skills and Interests Start by taking a thorough inventory of your technical skills, sales experience, and areas of interest. Consider any specific industries or technologies you are passionate about. AI-powered career assessment tools can help identify your strengths and potential areas for growth.

Research can be useful, but remember: knowing all of the rules of the sport of boxing from 1871 through yesterday is not going to help you if you are about to get punched in the face. Don't let research stop you from accessing the number one tool in business today: the conversation. Engage in that conversation on LinkedIn, where you will find real-time information about your market, and the key players. Remember, companies are made up of people. Identify the people (the players) inside the game. And don't sit on the sidelines memorizing an org chart. Knowing salary levels is a good idea, but knowing your value is a great idea. Consider hiring a coach so that you are clear on that value - and how to ask for it.

Research the Market and the Companies Use market research to understand the demand for technical sales roles in your areas of interest. Look for industry trends and growth areas. LinkedIn, with its vast community of professionals and companies, is an invaluable resource for this research. Follow companies you admire, join industry groups, and engage with content to get a sense of the market.

Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter Your resume and cover letter should reflect the research you’ve done. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job and company culture. Use LinkedIn to find out more about the hiring managers and tailor your application to address the company’s needs and values. AI-based resume builders can offer suggestions for optimization.

A great way to prepare for the interview is to write down the five questions you hope you will be asked. These questions are "softballs" and allow you to really shine! Then, take a deep breath, and write down the five questions you hope you are never asked. Look at the tough questions, too. And consider working with a coach or a mentor to see if your questions are realistic. Then, take the next step: make sure your answers are superb. Get a feel for the interview before you go in on the big day - that way, you have coaching on your side, and an understanding of what to expect. Perhaps you will even find a coach that's good enough to help you prepare for the unexpected. The tougher the questions, the better your preparation!

Prepare for the Interview and the Assessment Technical sales roles often require a combination of technical knowledge and sales acumen. Prepare by reviewing common interview questions and practicing your responses. LinkedIn Learning courses can help sharpen both your technical and sales skills. Also, prepare for any assessments by understanding the tools or platforms that might be used.

Follow Up and Negotiate After the interview, use LinkedIn to send personalized thank-you messages to your interviewers. If you receive a job offer, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Use data from LinkedIn salary insights to understand the market rate for your role and location, ensuring your negotiation is informed and realistic.

Make a Decision and Celebrate Once you’ve received an offer that meets your expectations, it’s time to make a decision. Consider all aspects of the job, including work-life balance, company culture, and career growth opportunities. After accepting, celebrate your achievement and share your success with your LinkedIn network, thanking those who helped you along the way.

Feedback: Gather feedback from current or former employees of the company to gain insights into the work environment, management style, and overall satisfaction.

Remember, finding the right job is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and a proactive approach. Using AI tools and the LinkedIn community can significantly enhance your job search, providing you with insights, connections, and opportunities that align with your career aspirations.