Manufacturer's Representative

Considered among the elite of sales professionals, Manufacturer’s Representatives are independent contractors who agree to represent various companies, and sell their products or services strictly on a straight commission basis. This Manufacturer’s Representative position is different than being on a traditional sales staff, where you would receive a base salary.

Whenever possible, you agree to sell for several non-competing companies with compatible products or services, with the goal of combining them and selling them to your customers as a package. For example, you might represent a furniture seller, a Carpet Dealer, and a lighting manufacturer, so if someone is doing interior design, there you are. This way, the customer gets everything they need from one person – you.

A typical day as a Manufacturer’s Representative (or Manufacturer’s Agent or Broker) might consist of checking out some new leads over coffee, delivering a sales presentation to a client, and making some sales calls. You won’t always be stuck behind a desk; you will spend much of your time visiting clients and attending trade show and conventions. You are constantly working to nurture your relationships with existing clients and seeking out new potential clients.

You may work alone as a self-employed Entrepreneur or within an agency with several other Salespeople and administrative staff. You use your familiarity with the local market to your benefit whenever possible, but sometimes traveling is necessary to earn those big commissions.