Breaking into Tech: How Women Can Transition into Tech Sales

As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's important to recognise the women who have paved the way for others—whether by fighting for the right to vote, access to work, or equal pay. One industry where this progress has been particularly evident is the tech industry.

In recent years, companies like Meta, Amazon, and Google led the way in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, driving change in hiring practices. However, with many organisations now scaling back their DEI initiatives, it feels like we're taking one step forward and two steps back.

While some companies may be deprioritising DEI efforts, this shouldn't discourage you from pursuing a career in tech sales. Opportunities still exist, and now more than ever, it's important to continue pushing for representation and success in the industry

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Wonder how to break into tech sales?

1. Identify Transferable Skills

You don't already need to be working in tech to break into tech sales. There are many transferable jobs/skills that can pave the way these include:

• Strong communication and presentation skills

• Problem-solving and active listening

• Relationship management

• Negotiation and persuasion abilities

• Adaptability and resilience

If you have experience in any of these areas, you’re already on the right track. However, it is important that while these are transferable skills, the ones that will probably take centre while interviewing will be your adaptability and resilience - why? Sales is a tough job and requires GRIT, if you do not enjoy leaderboards and competitions, sales might not be for you. However, if you find yourself pushing for more and enjoy a competitive environment, you already have one foot in the door.

2. Learn the Basics of Tech & SaaS

Get familiar with:

• Basic tech concepts: Learn about cloud computing, SaaS (Software as a Service), and cybersecurity.

• Common sales methodologies: Research BANT (Budget, Authority, Need, Timing), MEDDIC, or SPIN selling.

• Industry trends: Follow tech sales blogs, podcasts, and LinkedIn influencers.

Great free resources include HubSpot Academy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning.

3. Tailor Your Resume & LinkedIn Profile

Highlight relevant experience and position yourself for tech sales roles:

• CV: Focus on achievements that demonstrate sales, communication, or customer engagement skills.

• LinkedIn: Optimise your profile by adding keywords like "tech sales," "SaaS," or "B2B sales." Connect with sales professionals and recruiters.

4. Start Networking

• Join communities: Women in Sales, RevGenius, or Women in Tech Sales groups.

• Attend industry events: Sales conferences, webinars, or local networking events.

• Connect with professionals: Reach out to people in tech sales for informational interviews.

5. Apply for Entry-Level Tech Sales Roles

Roles like Sales Development Representative (SDR) or Business Development Representative (BDR), Market Representative  are great entry points. Even if you have worked in the past let's say as a real estate broker - tech sales is a different ball game and it will really help if you start with the basics.

6. Prepare for the Interview

Tech sales interviews often involve role-plays and questions about resilience and problem-solving. Be ready to:

• Explain why you're transitioning into tech sales.

• Demonstrate your ability to handle rejection and objections.

• Show how your past experiences make you a great fit.

7. Continue Learning & Growing

Once you land a role, keep developing your skills:

• Take sales training courses.

• Find a mentor.

• Set personal sales goals and track your progress.

As a sales recruiter, one thing I have found is that breaking into the tech industry is extremely challenging as it is a career with a lot of earning potential - there is a lot of competition but the candidates that have done the best in the recruitment process have been those that have demonstrated a growth mindset and particularly sales desire.

If you have experience in sales—whether in telesales, door-to-door sales, or real estate—you're already in a great position to transition into tech sales. However, it's important to set realistic expectations. For example, if you’ve spent five years as a real estate agent, landing a direct Account Executive role in tech might not happen right away. Instead, the best strategy is to start with an entry-level tech sales role (such as a Business Development Representative (BDR) or Sales Development Representative (SDR)) to learn the ropes and quickly prove your value.

If you are looking for your next role in tech sales get in touch hello@optimyze1.com