Salesmen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งโ๐ผ
salesmen
[หseษชlz.mษn ]
Definition
job role
A salesman is a person whose job involves selling products or services to customers. They often work in retail or in a business-to-business environment, negotiating deals and providing information to clients. Salesmen are skilled in communication and persuasion, aiming to meet sales targets.
Synonyms
merchant, representative, seller, vendor.
Examples of usage
- The salesman pitched the new software to the company.
- She asked the salesman for more information about the car.
- The salesman closed the deal after several meetings.
- He has been a successful salesman for over ten years.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- In the 19th century, salesmen began traveling to promote products directly to consumers, marking the rise of the modern sales profession.
- Door-to-door sales became popular in the early 20th century, with salesmen visiting homes to sell everything from household goods to cosmetics.
Psychology
- Effective sales techniques often rely on understanding customer psychology, such as using social proof to encourage purchases.
- Salesmen are trained to build rapport, as establishing a connection can significantly increase the chances of making a sale.
Pop Culture
- The character Willy Loman in Arthur Miller's play 'Death of a Salesman' symbolizes the struggles and aspirations of the American salesperson.
- Television shows like 'Mad Men' showcase the advertising and sales industry, highlighting the evolution of techniques over the decades.
Technology
- With the rise of e-commerce, the role of salesmen has transformed, leading to the growth of online sales and virtual sales pitches.
- Sales automation tools now help sales professionals track interactions and manage leads more efficiently than ever.
Origin of 'salesmen'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'salesman' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'sale' (the act of selling) with 'man', implying a male seller.
- The term 'salesperson' emerged later as a gender-neutral alternative to include all individuals who sell, regardless of gender.
The term 'salesman' is derived from the compound word 'sale' and 'man', with its first recorded use dating back to the early 20th century. 'Sale' traces its origins to the late Middle English word 'salen', coming from the Old English 'sรฆlan', which means to give, to sell. The addition of 'man' designates a person engaged in this profession. Over the years, the concept of a salesman has evolved from a mere transactional role to one involving significant relationship-building and customer service skills, reflecting the changing dynamics of commerce and consumer behavior.