Looking for a career in sales can be a stressful endeavor, especially if you’re not sure what kind of sales job makes sense for you. We get it, so we will answer an important question that many prospective employees must ask themselves: are commission-only jobs worth it?

Commission-Only Jobs: What’s That Mean?

Let’s start with the basics. What does “commission” stand for? Commission means money an employee receives for completing a specific task or goal. Depending on the employer, some sales employees do not receive a base salary. Instead, employees generate their income based on an agreed-upon percentage of whatever they sell. This is considered a “commission-only” job.

Alternatively, some commission-only sales jobs have a base salary that employees will receive regardless of their sales performance. While they may receive some commission in the form of a percentage of the sale they made, the percentage will likely be much lower than for those who are paid exclusively through commission.

Does A Commission-Only Job Make Sense For You?

Simply put, it depends on the person and the job in question! AIFP knows that the best decisions are informed decisions, so here is what you need to consider before deciding if a commission-only job is a right move for you.

Consider Risk Tolerance

When deciding if a commission-only sales job is the right speed for you, you should consider your tolerance for risk. Commission earnings can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires a certain amount of leg work. While many commission-only jobs expose you to unlimited earning potential, they can also be subject to the risk of dry spells. For some, the stability of a salaried position outweighs the more limited monetary possibilities. For others, the potential to earn more money outweighs the potential flux in earnings.

Consider Your Personality

Sales are, well, sales. To succeed in sales, there are personality traits that are best suited to close deals and, reasonably, for the commission-only pay structure. Of course, anyone can become an incredible salesperson, but you may especially thrive if you are self-motivated, competitive, resilient, curious, and outgoing. These traits lend themselves exceptionally well to commissioned-based jobs. If this sounds like you, it is definitely something you should consider.

Consider Motivation

Motivation is vital for any kind of job. But depending on the industry, it can need to come from different places. Especially within the lumber industry, the commission-only pay structure tends to favor people who are individually motivated and, or, results motivated. With commission-only sales jobs, the harder and more effectively you work, the more you optimize your time, the more money you will presumably make.

Consider Preferences

Do you prefer routine or flexibility? Stability or growth potential? Independence or collaboration? When deciding if a commission-only based job is right for you, you need to consider your individual preferences and strengths and how they will serve you in your position.

Consider The Job

For this kind of position, you will need proper training and resources – of course! However, you should consider that not all commission-only jobs are created equal. You will want to choose a position that does not cap your earnings and provides you with competitive benefits. Additionally, you’ll want to consider who your sales audiences may be, who your competitors are, and what type of support you would receive from your company.

Commission-Only Jobs at AIFP

Have we convinced you? If so, consider starting your commission-only career with us at AIFP. We know what it is like to begin working in a new industry, which is why we have a system to get you primed and ready to be the best employee you can be!

At AIFP we know what it is like coming into a new company, a new industry, and having that feeling of being overwhelmed. That’s why we have a paid 24-month internship* where we provide the training and support you need to succeed at AIFP! This means you receive high-quality mentorship from experienced traders to help you begin building relationships with potential buyers. We’ve got your back! Upon completion of the trader training program, you are now in control of the success and earning potential of your business as you transition into a full-commission trader!

Send us your resume today to apply for a career as a lumber trader at one of the best places to work in Portland, OR! In the meantime, check out the AIFP blog where we cover everything from what we’re looking for in job candidates to the importance of company culture.

*The Trader Training Program is a standard 12-month program to help establish your business and trade, but may be completed earlier or later, depending on the individual.

Are Commission-Only Jobs Worth It?