Child safety product sales is a rewarding career in so many ways.
All it takes is a newspaper headline to remind the world of risks kids encounter every day. To combat potential dangers, a growth industry in child safety products has emerged. Your desire to sell these types of products benefits everyone: kids, parents and you. Apply due diligence to the product mix you'll represent as you embark upon your mission to keep kids safe, one child at a time.
Instructions
1. Choose between being a multi-line or single-line sales rep. If you decide to sell safety products for multiple manufacturers--Tyco, Fisher-Price and Disney lead-free toys, for example--you'll have a bigger product load to shoulder than you would if, for example, you're a company-dedicated Guard-A-Child ID kit salesman. Being a multiple-line professional requires juggling, so if you choose this path, be certain there are no conflicts of interest with anyone involved.
2. Set up a headquarters from which you'll operate your child safety product business. A small office with furniture, a computer and phone may be all you need if you'll have no hand in product distribution. On the other hand, bicycle safety helmets, shin guards and other child-safe safety sporting products could require a warehouse if you've contracted to run a distribution hub in addition to selling.
3. Communicate regularly with product developers and marketers at each company you represent. Explore each firm's philosophy, missions and goals. Attend regional and national trade shows held twice a year at major markets (New York, Dallas, Chicago, etc.) where innovative new child safety products are introduced. Trade shows offer insights into competitor lines and since floor space will usually accommodate more product than you'll be able to squeeze into your car for sales calls, these are ideal places to spend quality time with your customers.
4. Be prepared for problems. Whether you're selling child-friendly first aid kits to schools or child safety locks to car companies, keep abreast of safety news. Federal and state agencies are in the business of catching cribs that collapse, but you're on the one with the one-on-one relationships. If a product is recalled, it's critical that you get to your customers quickly so they hear the news from you.
5. Carry a wide range of merchandise so you're able to target a variety of retail outlets for the child safety products you sell. ID products (fingerprint, photo and DNA capturing kits) will find a home in stores catering to the parents of school age children while baby departments and boutiques are locations you'll target for cabinet latches, outlet covers and safety gates. The more diverse your safety gear product lines, the more stores you'll be able to penetrate.
6. Think beyond the sale. Innovate on behalf of the child safety products you represent so you're seen as a team member. If, for example, you have a great idea for a smoke alarm for kid's rooms that has yet to be explored by your company or another firm, don't be shy. You may not wind up with a royalty for licensing your idea, but you'll certainly catch the eye of higher-ups.
Tags: child safety, child safety products, safety products, safety product, safety products, your customers