Advertising Sales Agents
Advertising Sales Agents sell advertising space, time, or media to businesses and organizations. They work for publications, TV and radio stations, websites, signage companies, and other media outlets. The job involves identifying potential clients, presenting advertising packages, negotiating contracts, and managing accounts to meet sales targets.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against advertising sales agents and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes prospecting new clients through phone calls and emails, meeting with existing and potential customers to discuss their advertising needs, preparing proposals and rate quotes, and negotiating contract terms. Sales agents track client campaigns, handle renewals, and troubleshoot any issues. Much of the work involves administrative tasks like updating customer databases, preparing reports on sales activity, and following up on leads.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECA. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy this work if you're enterprising—comfortable selling and building business relationships—and conventional, meaning you prefer structured environments and clear procedures. You're organized, detail-oriented, and motivated by measurable sales goals and commission potential.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $74,820 | $101,320 | $134,240 | 3,510 |
| New York | $67,300 | $98,360 | $134,140 | 13,570 |
| Massachusetts | $61,770 | $80,500 | $126,390 | 1,480 |
| California | $56,010 | $80,360 | $104,660 | 9,620 |
| District of Columbia | $66,740 | $75,030 | $107,810 | 320 |
| Utah | $43,820 | $74,260 | $116,750 | 1,110 |
| Colorado | $52,070 | $73,420 | $124,830 | 1,110 |
| New Jersey | $48,930 | $69,620 | $95,020 | 2,110 |
| South Carolina | $42,430 | $68,200 | $102,570 | 1,770 |
| Illinois | $47,620 | $66,290 | $99,010 | 3,790 |
| Michigan | $50,180 | $64,800 | $105,950 | 2,040 |
| Wisconsin | $48,660 | $63,270 | $83,510 | 1,290 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Advertising Specialist (CAS) — Promotional Products Association International
- Training Advertising Specialist (TAS) — Promotional Products Association International
- Digital Media Sales Certification — Interactive Advertising Bureau
- Master Advertising Specialist — Promotional Products Association International
- Master Advertising Specialist Plus (MAS+) — Promotional Products Association International
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against advertising sales agents and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 41-3011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.