Breaking into tech sales isn’t just about mastering cold calls or perfecting your pitch—it’s about building the right network. Whether you’re transitioning from another industry or climbing the sales career ladder, who you know can be just as important as what you know. The right connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, insider job referrals, and valuable industry insights.
So, how do you effectively network as an aspiring tech sales professional?
Here are some proven strategies to help you build meaningful connections and accelerate your career.
Your LinkedIn profile is often your first impression. A well-optimized profile helps recruiters, hiring managers, and industry leaders find you and see your potential.
✔ Use a professional headshot – First impressions matter!
✔ Craft a compelling headline – Highlight your goal
e.g., Aspiring Tech Sales Professional | Passionate About SaaS & Customer Success.
✔ Write an engaging summary – Tell your story, why you’re transitioning into sales, and what value you bring.
✔ Engage with content – Comment on industry posts, share insights, and publish your own thoughts on tech sales.
Bonus: Jaron Erickson, Sales Dojo’s founder, has a FREE mini-course on optimizing your LinkedIn profile. Get access here.
Reaching out to sales managers, SDRs (Sales Development Representatives), and recruiters can fast-track your career. When sending a request, include a
personalized message:
"Hi [Name], I’m looking to break into tech sales and would love to connect and learn from your experience. I admire your work at [Company] and hope to stay in touch!"
Remember, genuine engagement builds long-term relationships. Don’t just ask for job referrals—start by adding value to the conversation.
Live events are goldmines for networking. Keep an eye out for:
Pro Tip: When attending events, introduce yourself, ask insightful questions, and follow up afterward!
Connecting with like-minded professionals can fast-track your learning. Here are a few must-join communities:
Actively participate—ask questions, share insights, and contribute to discussions.
A mentor can help you avoid common mistakes, refine your skills, and introduce you to valuable contacts. Where to find one?
When requesting mentorship, be specific about what you need help with: “I’d love guidance on how to excel in SDR interviews.”
Want to stand out? Start posting on LinkedIn about your journey into tech sales.
Positioning yourself as someone eager to learn will attract opportunities and connections naturally.
Networking isn’t just about making connections—it’s about maintaining them. After meeting someone, follow up within 24-48 hours with a short message:
“Hey [Name], it was great connecting at [Event]! I enjoyed our conversation about [Topic]. Let’s stay in touch!”
Stay engaged—occasionally check in, share relevant articles, or congratulate them on new roles.
Networking in tech sales isn’t about collecting as many connections as possible—it’s about building relationships that open doors. By optimizing your LinkedIn, engaging with industry professionals, attending events, and nurturing your network, you’ll position yourself for success in the competitive world of tech sales.
Ready to take the next step? Connect with sales communities, start conversations, and put these strategies into action today!