Does it matter where you went to school for job search promotions etc in sales?

I notice more and more of these folks getting higher titles and a faster career advancement route due to where they went to school. I also know a ton of salespeople who went to these no name schools who have risen up the ranks pretty easily.


Do you think it matters? Yes? No? Slight leg up?


Curious to hear everyone's thoughts?

๐ŸฅŽ Training
๐Ÿค Networking
๐Ÿš€ Career Goals
3
Ras_Rebuttles
Contributor
2
Sales Consultant
Iโ€™ve literally only see companies allot more salary for a rep with bachelors and more for masters at one company but it didnโ€™t effet the interview or application process. Thatโ€™s all about exp๐Ÿ“ˆ
Pedge
0
Account Executive
I think the advantage comes in the hiring process, but production trumps education in most sales environments. (Assuming you are a culture fit in both instances)
Soiboi
Politicker
0
Account Executive, EIAS/Compliance
Connections are a powerful thing but ultimately if you put a great reputation behind your name and track record then anything is possible.ย 
wHaTyAgOtCoOkInG
Catalyst
0
Solution Consultant
nah, i think schools help from an alumni perspectiveย 
CuriousFox
WR Officer
1
๐ŸฆŠ
I don't believe my "business degree" is better than your "business degree." Your worth ethic and drive to back it up is what matters.
SalesAssassin
Praised Answer
0
Sales Executive
I dont think it can definitely give you a leg up on the inside competition.ย 



However, your work ethic and numbers speak volumes and can easily propel you to the next promotion over someone with a big name school.
AnchorPoint
Politicker
0
Business Coach
Sure it can help... so can being tall, attractive, having well to do parents or friends... but some things you simply cannot control.ย  Focus on what you can control, be the best you can be, and you will do just fine.ย  That is more true in sales than almost any other profession.
Selichimorpha
Celebrated Contributor
0
Growth Executive
I'm sure it helps to have a top school on your resume, but I don't think it carries as much weight in our industry.ย 

You can't get a degree in sales (you can do business or marketing, but we all know that's not the same.) Skills in sales are learned on the job, so I don't think education plays as much of a role.ย 
jwils
Politicker
0
Sales Manager
The only time Iโ€™ve seen it matter is for the first role out of college.

after that itโ€™s all based on your performance, references and interview skills.
1

Did your business school offer any classes that covered sales?

Question
13
6

If you were an undergrad looking for a sales job, where would you start and where would you want to work after graduation?

Question
11
7

Embarrassing to ask but how do you find a new AE sales job? I'm an AE (5 years exp)...

Question
9