Independent sales representatives enjoy unique benefits in the sales industry and the job market as a whole. Though they may answer to a supervisor and must follow guidelines set forth by the company for which they work, typically independent sales agents are free to control their work environment. They still must uphold the objectives and integrity of a company, but they are usually paid a commission percentage and are considered independent contractors.

Set Appointments

Independent sales representatives are usually responsible for obtaining their own sales leads and for setting appointments based on those leads. Some companies line up customers, but the responsibility of setting appointments, staying in contact with the customer and showing up to appointments on time remain with the sales representative.

Present to Customers

Presentations may follow specific guidelines set forth by the selling company, unique to the sales representative or a combination of both. Regardless, an independent sales rep is required to present the product or service he is selling in an attractive manner. He must have intimate knowledge of the product or service and be able to answer any questions the customer may have.

Close Sales

Closing sales is one of the most important aspects of an independent sales representative's job. She must be able to turn a presentation into a sale for the benefit of her paycheck and to secure her position with the selling company.

Paperwork

Once a sale has been closed, the sales rep must get everything down on paper. He must be proficient in filling out the required paperwork and obtaining the proper signatures from the buyer. If this step is not completed properly, the sales rep could lose a sale. This translates into a loss of profits for the company as well as the sales agent. Above all, the representative must be able to do all of these things independently, as he is not surrounded by colleagues able to help out at a moment's notice.