First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers
First-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers directly manage and coordinate sales teams in settings like wholesale, manufacturing, or business-to-business environments. They handle team scheduling, performance tracking, and often manage budgets and hiring. These supervisors work in offices, warehouses, or field locations depending on the industry.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against first-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing sales reports, meeting with team members about performance and goals, and handling administrative tasks like payroll and scheduling. Supervisors may also attend meetings with upper management to discuss targets and budgets, resolve customer or personnel issues, and sometimes accompany sales staff on client visits. The balance between desk work and field activity varies by company and industry.
Who this work suits
Holland code ECS. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this role if you enjoy building business relationships and driving results—hallmarks of enterprising work. You're organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable with systems and procedures, reflecting conventional interests. You likely have strong communication skills and several years of sales experience before moving into management.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $88,380 | $121,780 | $159,180 | 16,870 |
| Massachusetts | $84,500 | $115,150 | $147,950 | 5,490 |
| Colorado | $81,940 | $110,450 | $158,760 | 8,230 |
| South Dakota | $84,680 | $105,680 | $131,260 | 680 |
| New Jersey | $81,170 | $99,030 | $132,980 | 10,370 |
| Virginia | $69,440 | $98,170 | $130,980 | 9,020 |
| New Hampshire | $72,730 | $97,470 | $132,910 | 1,460 |
| Washington | $76,320 | $95,150 | $130,560 | 4,830 |
| Wisconsin | $74,290 | $91,980 | $117,160 | 4,930 |
| North Carolina | $67,060 | $91,200 | $132,320 | 11,080 |
| Iowa | $62,750 | $89,640 | $120,440 | 2,530 |
| Illinois | $62,420 | $88,820 | $120,200 | 5,280 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Sales Compensation Professional (CSCP) — WorldatWork
- Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) — American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Institute
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 first-line supervisors of non-retail sales workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 41-1012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.