Career Definition of a Telemarketer
Telemarketers are marketing representatives that make sales and do business strictly using a telephone. Telemarketers sell a wide variety of services, memberships and products directly to consumers. Most telemarketers use a long list of names, called leads, which they will call and give their sales pitch to in an attempt to make a sale. They must also keep well-organized records for client interactions, as well as seek out new clientele.
| Educational Requirements | Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent |
| Job Skills | Strong telephone and communication skills, strong problem-solving ability, varying levels of computer proficiency and good organizational skills |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $28,910 |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031)* | -18% decline |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Requirements
Since most employers of telemarketers offer on-the-job training, there are no set requirements for telemarketers. However, most employers require that a telemarketer have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. To help prepare for a career in telemarketing students can take classes in communications, sales and business.
Skills Required
Telemarketers must have strong telephone skills and be able to effectively communicate with people over the telephone. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, some telemarketers are required to have intermediate computer skills, in order to stay organized and provide information to potential clients. This may include proficiency in multiple software packages, like the Microsoft Suite. Strong organizational skills and problem-solving skills may also be useful in order to work with multiple different clients and analyze solutions for customer service issues.
Economic and Career Outlook
Telemarketing jobs are often available as part-time jobs and may also offer opportunities to work from home. Other jobs are located at large call centers. Telemarketers can find advancement opportunities as managers and specialists. Many telemarketers work on a commission basis and their salary is directly affected by the volume of sales they make. The BLS reported that telemarketers earned a median annual wage of $28,910 in May 2021. It was also reported that employment in the field would experience a 18% decline between 2021 and 2031, which may be due to companies relying on automated self-service options that do not require customers speaking directly to a representative.
Alternate Career Options
Those interested in pursuing a career in telemarketing may also consider:
Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representative
Usually, a high school education and on-the-job training are sufficient for this career, unless the products being sold are technical or scientific; those positions normally require postsecondary education. These sales reps make contacts with agencies, businesses and organizations, explaining products being sold by the wholesalers or manufacturers, answering questions and negotiating costs. The BLS projected the average job growth of 4% from 2021 to 2031. Sales reps, not including those who deal with technical and scientific products, earned a median annual wage of $62,890 in 2021, while those selling scientific and technical goods earned $102,680, the BLS noted.
Receptionist
With a high school diploma and training received on the job, receptionists answer phones, greet visitors and provide information about their businesses or organizations. Little to no change in employment growth of 0% was expected for this occupation during the 2021-2031 decade, according to the BLS. Receptionists earned a median salary of $29,950 in 2021.
