Navigating the Shifting Landscape of Sales Jobs: The Struggles and Solutions

Most companies nowadays, specifically in medical and device sales, tend to hire people as 1099 contractors rather than as W2 employees because, why not? It saves the company overhead costs such as providing a salaried employee with benefits and also taxes associated.

And this certainly makes it a challenging job for career-oriented sales representatives. Contract positions delay compensation: it can be several months before an independent contractor has built a practice to bring in substantial returns. And independent contractors do not typically recoup business expenses.

Is this move to contract sales jobs a secular shift or just a temporary trend? And, what can salespeople do to get off the contract treadmill and into salaried jobs? Is there any wiggle room?

With these considerations in mind, sales reps can take the following measures to take charge of this difficult situation: Vice number two: Do your research in advance about the potential employers and identify potential firms who you know to be salaried, rather than contract-based. Vice number three: Establish a connection with other related industry professionals and request referrals.

What’s more, when interviewing for or negotiating a job, a sales professional should make it clear that it’s a salaried position with benefits. And some companies might be more willing to negotiate out of using 1099 contractors than others, especially if you make a strong case about the value and experience you will bring to the table.

In addition, a proven track record of success and an emphasis on the prospect of a long-term contribution can lead you towards the goal of getting someone hired on salary. The successful candidate can frame themselves as integral to the team by highlighting the role that a steady, committed sales representative can play in the total enterprise.

As prevalent as contract sales positions might be now, sales personnel should take early, strategic actions in their careers to seek the best available salary – whether based on commissions or a yearly wage. Utilizing industry contacts, networking opportunities, and honed sales skills, representatives should seek salaried work. In the end, as the labor market evolves, adaptability and perseverance will be character traits that will be helpful to us all, as we ride out the impending shifting employment markets that are sure to follow.

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