If you’re looking for a fast-growing, high-reward career, tech sales might be the perfect fit for you. Whether you’re transitioning from another industry, fresh out of university, or simply curious about the field, learning how to get into tech sales is your first step toward an exciting and lucrative career.
Women, in particular, are making waves in tech sales, proving that success isn’t about having a technical background but about skills, adaptability, and persistence. In this guide, we’ll share the inspiring journeys of women who broke into the industry and give you actionable steps to help you start your own tech sales career.
Why Tech Sales? The Perks of the Industry
Tech sales isn’t just about selling software—it’s about problem-solving, relationship-building, and driving digital transformation. Here’s why so many people are drawn to it:
- High Earning Potential – Competitive salaries with uncapped commissions.
- Career Growth – Opportunities to advance quickly, even into leadership roles.
- Recession-Proof Industry – The tech sector continues to expand.
- Transferable Skills – Sales skills are valuable across industries.
- Flexibility – Many tech sales jobs offer hybrid or remote work options.
If you’re wondering how to break into tech sales without experience, the good news is that many successful sales professionals come from non-sales backgrounds!
How These Women Got Into Tech Sales
Hearing real-life experiences from those who’ve been in your shoes can be inspiring. Here’s how three successful women found their way into tech sales.
Penelope Van de Ven – Account Manager at Notified
“I didn’t plan to go into sales—I actually studied Veterinary Science and Biomedical Engineering! But I wanted to be part of something innovative, so I explored tech. I landed a role at an IT scale-up, and on my first day, I was thrown into cold calling. It was a steep learning curve, but looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Lesson: You don’t need a tech or business degree to succeed in tech sales—just a willingness to learn.
Matilda Phillips – Account Executive at Stripe
“I moved to Sydney from New Zealand after earning a degree in Communications. I hadn’t even heard of tech sales until a friend suggested it. They referred me for a Sales Development Representative (SDR) role, and I took a leap of faith. That one decision set me on an amazing career path.”
Lesson: Don’t underestimate the power of networking—referrals can open doors to tech sales roles.
Jasmine Gray – Customer Success Team Manager, APAC at Aircall
“At first, I was intimidated by the idea of working in tech, but the opportunities were too good to pass up. I took the job, pushed through my doubts, and now I can’t imagine being in any other industry.”
Lesson: Confidence comes with experience—take the chance and grow into the role.
How to Get into Tech Sales: A Step-by-Step Guide
Breaking into tech sales is achievable with the right approach. Here’s how you can start:
1. Build the Right Skills
You don’t need a technical background, but you do need strong skills in:
- Communication – Being able to explain solutions clearly.
- Resilience – Handling rejection and pushing forward.
- Problem-Solving – Understanding customer challenges and offering solutions.
2. Get Familiar with Tech Basics
You don’t need to code, but understanding SaaS (Software as a Service) and basic sales tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, and LinkedIn Sales Navigator will help. Free courses on Coursera or HubSpot Academy are great starting points.
3. Leverage Networking & LinkedIn
Many tech sales jobs come through referrals. Here’s how to get noticed:
- Connect with sales professionals on LinkedIn.
- Join communities like Women in Tech Sales or SaaS Sales Pros.
- Attend networking events and tech meetups.
4. Apply for Entry-Level Sales Roles
Start with positions like:
- Sales Development Representative (SDR)
- Business Development Representative (BDR)
- Customer Success Associate
Pro Tip: Many tech companies have training programs for new sales hires—take advantage of them!
5. Find a Mentor
A mentor can help you navigate the industry. Look for one through:
- LinkedIn Sales Groups
- Tech Sales Bootcamps
- Networking Events
6. Prepare for Tech Sales Interviews
Expect:
Mock sales pitches (role-playing).
Questions about handling rejection and negotiations.
Behavioral questions to assess resilience and communication skills.
Practice answering questions like: “Tell me about a time you convinced someone to change their mind.”
What’s the Best Part of Tech Sales?
- Penelope: “Helping businesses solve big problems and seeing the impact of digital transformation.”
- Matilda: “Learning skills that are valuable anywhere and being part of an innovative space.”
- Jasmine: “The fast-paced environment, great rewards, and endless growth opportunities.”
Final Thoughts: Why Tech Sales Might Be the Right Career for You
Tech sales is a field where anyone can succeed with the right mindset and skills. You don’t need a technical degree or years of experience—just curiosity, persistence, and the ability to connect with people.
Ready to start your tech sales journey?
Check out job opportunities at Salient Group and connect with industry experts!