Is able to communicate effectively in training and/or presentation situations; handles questions and concerns with confidence and ease; has comprehensive product and technical knowledge to present facts clearly; is able to improvise when unexpected circumstances arise. Very good presentation skills are essential, as the Sales & Service Rep will frequently be called on to give product knowledge presentations to groups consisting of 2-10 sales associates, and occasionally to larger groups of 40-50 in-store sales associates. Creative, memorable presentations will leave a positive, long-lasting image in the minds of in-store associates and department managers, and will result in increased sales.
Customer Service Skills
Is easy to approach and talk to; anticipates customer needs; spends the extra effort to put others at ease; is sensitive to and patient with the interpersonal anxieties of others; builds rapport well; is a good listener; is cool under pressure; not defensive or irritated in difficult situations; displays maturity; can hold things together in difficult situations; handles stress well; not knocked off balance by the unexpected; doesn’t show frustration when resisted or blocked; is a settling influence when necessary; responds to external and internal customer requests in a timely manner.
Time/Territory Management
Manages travel efficiently to avoid incurring unnecessary expenses to the company; plans activities in advance; prioritizes activities and unexpected situations appropriately.
Organizational Skills
Selling Skills
Understands and uses sales data to identify selling opportunities and increase sales; anticipates and takes steps necessary to quell objections from store associates and end users concerning SWF products; effectively deals with unexpected objections as they arise; continually builds rapport with associates at all levels within the store setting (managers and sales associates); is familiar with the qualifying process and effectively communicates the benefits of all products
Product Knowledge
Has the product knowledge to do the job well; is able to effectively answer questions regarding features and benefits of all products; communicates technical information well with store associates and end users. Also has expertise regarding competitors’ products. Uses that knowledge effectively to present Springs products favorably and professionally, and at the expense of competitor products.
Mechanical/Machine Knowledge
This position requires the basic maintenance and repair of powered and non-powered machines to cut down stock products in the stores of retailers. Some mechanical aptitude is required, along with frequent use of hand tools and small electric tools, ie. pliers, hammers, screwdrivers, electric drills, etc. to maintain and repair machines, and correctly assemble and maintain displays.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
Cost Control
Physical Requirements
Representatives are required to lift stock, sample books, and display parts weighing from 1-15 pounds frequently during a typical workday. The ability to lift up to 50 pounds is sometimes required. When more than 50 pounds must be lifted, representatives are required to obtain assistance from store personnel.
Regular work in a “warehouse” store environment with exposure to fork trucks, noise, dust and somewhat variable temperatures is necessary on a daily basis.
There is often a need to climb stepladders and work from moderate heights while installing and maintaining displays.
Driving and Overnight Travel
Most incumbents will be required to drive for extended periods of time, and may drive between 15,000 and 40,0000 annually. Overnight travel may be required (between 2 and 15 days a month, depending on the territory.)
Computer/Communication Skills
Is able to effectively use technology, ie. e-mail, voice mail, hand-held digital assistants. Is comfortable using common office technology software, ie. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
