The sales jobs market in Ireland is experiencing a dynamic shift, with both challenges and exciting opportunities as we step into 2024. Let’s take a closer look at the key trends shaping the landscape.
Challenges in Tech Sales
Impact of Layoffs: The tech industry has seen significant layoffs, which has made the market for sales professionals more competitive, from junior to senior roles. Employers must adapt to attract top talent, with a compelling offer that emphasizes the right work environment, compensation packages, and unique product offerings.
Flexibility as a Necessity: Flexible work arrangements have become crucial for attracting the best candidates. Companies offering no hybrid work options are struggling to attract skilled professionals. The demand for a blend of in-office and remote work is non-negotiable for many candidates.
Onboarding and Aftercare: As candidates often receive multiple offers, the onboarding process has gained significant importance. Effective aftercare and ensuring candidates feel valued post-hire is essential for long-term retention.
Shift Out of Tech Sales: A noticeable trend has been the movement of candidates out of tech sales due to industry instability, which presents both challenges and opportunities in other sectors.
Key Areas of Demand in 2023
Business Development and Hunter Roles: Companies are prioritizing candidates who can bring in new business or recover lost clients, making these skills highly sought after.
Account Managers with Relationship Management Skills: There is an ongoing demand for account managers who excel in relationship management, ensuring clients feel engaged and satisfied.
Degree-Educated Candidates: Sales roles in specialized sectors such as engineering, science, and construction continue to require a degree. The technical knowledge can be a significant advantage in these markets.
Industrial and Manufacturing Solutions Sales: Companies selling to industrial and manufacturing sectors are experiencing the highest growth in the sales market. There’s an increasing need for sales professionals in these fields.
Field-Based Representatives: While there’s a strong demand for field sales professionals, especially those targeting key accounts, there’s a shortage of junior candidates pursuing this career path.
Language Skills: Proficiency in languages, particularly German, Dutch, and French, continues to be a major asset for sales professionals, especially in multinational companies.
Salaries and Competitive Packages
Higher Salaries and Competitive Benefits: With talent in high demand, employers are offering increasingly competitive salaries, along with comprehensive benefits packages that include healthcare, pensions, and performance bonuses.
Counteroffers: Highly skilled candidates are receiving multiple offers, making counteroffers more common. Employers must ensure they offer an attractive candidate experience and clear career progression to remain competitive.
Company Cars and Electric Vehicles (EVs): Company cars remain a desirable perk, but candidates are scrutinizing the type of car, mileage, and Benefit in Kind (BIK) taxes, especially in light of new legislation. The rise of electric cars offers both opportunities and challenges, with candidates considering the practicality of charging infrastructure.
Demand for Remote and Hybrid Work
Hybrid Work as a Key Factor: The desire for hybrid work continues to be a driving force in attracting top sales talent. While fully remote roles are less in demand, candidates prefer a blend of in-office and remote work options. Employers offering no flexibility may find it challenging to attract candidates.
Commute and Location Preferences: The commute length plays a significant role in a candidate’s decision-making process, particularly in areas where public transportation is limited. Candidates are looking for roles that offer proximity to their home or good hybrid arrangements.
Team Collaboration and Social Connection: While flexibility is crucial, candidates still value in-person collaboration and team-building opportunities. Social connections and learning opportunities in an office setting remain important.
In Conclusion
The sales jobs market in 2024 will continue to evolve with a focus on flexibility, competitive compensation, and specialized skillsets. As employers and candidates adapt to these shifting dynamics, success will depend on offering compelling benefits, fostering positive workplace cultures, and embracing a flexible approach to work.
For sales professionals and employers looking to navigate these trends, Sigmar remains committed to connecting the right talent with the right opportunities. For all your sales job needs, feel free to reach out to us at sales@sigmar.ie.
