Career summary

Details for Parts Salespersons


Description

Sell spare and replacement parts and equipment in repair shop or parts store.

Tasks

  • Read catalogs, microfiche viewers, or computer displays to determine replacement part stock numbers and prices.
  • Determine replacement parts required, according to inspections of old parts, customer requests, or customers' descriptions of malfunctions.
  • Receive and fill telephone orders for parts.
  • Prepare sales slips or sales contracts.
  • Receive payment or obtain credit authorization.
  • Advise customers on substitution or modification of parts when identical replacements are not available.
  • Examine returned parts for defects, and exchange defective parts or refund money.
  • Mark and store parts in stockrooms according to prearranged systems.
  • Discuss use and features of various parts, based on knowledge of machines or equipment.
  • Demonstrate equipment to customers and explain functioning of equipment.
  • Place new merchandise on display.
  • Measure parts, using precision measuring instruments, to determine whether similar parts may be machined to required sizes.
  • Repair parts or equipment.
  • Fill customer orders from stock and place orders when requested items are out of stock.
  • Assist customers, such as responding to customer complaints and updating them about back-ordered parts.
  • Locate and label parts and maintain inventory of stock.
  • Pick up and deliver parts.
  • Maintain and clean work and inventory areas.
  • Manage shipments by researching shipping methods or costs and tracking packages.

Interests

  • Realistic - Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
  • Enterprising - Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
  • Conventional - Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.

Education, training, experience

  • Education - These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
  • Training - Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
  • Experience - Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.

Knowledge

  • English Language -Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Mechanical -Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Sales and Marketing -Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
  • Customer and Personal Service -Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Skills

None found.

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