This week we look at what it’s really like to work in sales with a FMCG firm. Whilst FMCG typically also offer careers in marketing, finance and engineering, we will focus on the sales department today, bringing you insights directly from employees themselves.
1. What do you do on a day-to-day basis?
‘A typical day involves lots of emails! I spend a lot of time talking to people across both my company and my retailer. I also spend lots of time looking at spreadsheets, manipulating data to give a realistic picture of the current retail landscape of my category and looking for areas in which I can grow my business.’
‘I interact with a large team of people from head office ranging from finance to sales. I spend the majority of my time meeting catering managers and business owners and building a network with reps and wholesalers.’
‘In a day, I may be liaising with other sectors of the business to organise events. I may analyse market data to gain and share category insights through presentations. I may communicate with customers in order to satisfy their needs or gain information needed by the business.’
2. What are the best and worst things about working in FMCG sales?
‘Responsibility early on. Being able to see results quickly. Flexible hours. The company car! Lots more excel than I had anticipated.’
‘It is a great company to work for, where you can gain a brilliant insight into a large professional business and its ways of working. The systems are a little out-dated and it hinders the efficiency of the workload. Due to the busy nature of senior staff, there is limited time for hands-on ‘mentoring’.’
‘Great exposure to customers from week 1. A deep and broad understanding of how the business operates Great environment and culture. Not many other schemes around that are similar to this one Rotation means you never stay in one place for too long, so if the role isn’t great, you will be moved. Lower salaries compared to opportunities in London. Job can get repetitive, lots of computer work.’
3. What are the average working hours?
8am – 6pm
£27,000 – £29,000
5. Do you have any interview tips?
“Have lots of ideas about when you’ve demonstrated certain skills during your life time: sports/music/other clubs/work. Be a team player.”
“Read the company books and ensure that you understand what the company stands for. It’s not just a drinks company, there is an ethos and philosophy that you have to fit if you want to work there. Be yourself: don’t stress, don’t act like something you’re not, just act like a normal human being and you should be ok.”
“Ask lots of questions, understand what the company does, globally as well as nationally. Smile and be open. Come up with suggestions or insights, if you have an idea or an opinion, express it. Demonstrate an ability to work as a team. Have an example of what you are committed to, a hobby or sport etc.”
6. Are there any jobs available now?
Take a look here for more information on jobs available now.
