If you’ve ever thought about switching gears and exploring a new path, 2025 could be the year to make a career change. And if you’re considering a drinks industry career, there’s no better time to dive into the exciting world of Field-Based Sales jobs. Let’s explore what makes a Drinks Field Sales career so rewarding, and how to prepare for the challenges along the way.

JME drinks field sales jobs

Why Choose a Career in Drinks Field Sales?

You’re not selling dog food or toilet roll. You’re representing premium drinks brands that, if you do your job well, end up in your local bars and restaurants where you take your partner, friends or family. Here, you all get to enjoy that delicious liquid in a perfectly served glass whilst the lovely GM & bar staff tell everyone what a great field sales agent you are. What an unbeatable feeling!

A Drinks Field Sales career offers this level of satisfaction alongside unique challenges and growth opportunities. Whether you’re exploring graduate jobs in the food and drink industry or someone with hospitality experience browsing field sales vacancies in your area, this could be your perfect next step.

The Challenges of Field-Based Sales Jobs

Of course, no career change comes without its hurdles. While some people don’t reveal them, we do because Honesty is one of our core JME values. Plus, we want you to be well equipped for dealing with the challenges that come with the role. So here are some truths about the job, and how to prepare yourself for success:

1) Self-Organisation Is Key

Field Sales jobs, including Drinks Field Sales Management roles, come with a lot of autonomy. Gone are the structured hours of hospitality or office-based jobs. You’re in charge of organising your diary, planning your day, and hitting the road.

In your new world, preparation is key. Utilise all the available support via your business’ CRM & journey planning tools. Lean into the processes, they are there to support you, so take the time to learn how to use them effectively.

2) Embrace Your Independence

If you’ve worked in a team-based environment, especially in hospitality with team members and your line manager in close proximity, moving to a more independent role can feel isolating. But remember, you’re not alone. Becoming part of the JME Drinks Field Sales team connects you with a network of like-minded people, even if they’re not in your immediate area.

Stay connected through regular team check-ins and honest conversations with your line manager. Be truthful about the opportunities and challenges you face when meeting with your fellow field sales agents, they’re facing similar challenges and can provide invaluable support.

3) Build a Professional Network

Create a professional network in your new world. Drinks Field Sales is a friendly business so make sure you reach out to and connect with your rep ‘brothers & sisters’. Especially if they have noncompeting brands as you may be able to work together at some point. (e.g. spirits brands always need a complementary mixer brand at events!)

Also find the local bar that is ‘rep central’ (trust us there will be one!). This venue will be your gateway to making friends and long-lasting connections with your peers – we can’t stress enough how important this is for long term success.

4) Learn to Bounce Back from Rejection

“No” is a word you’ll hear often when working in Drinks Field Sales, so finding a way to deal with and manage rejection is absolutely key. We like to say it’s not a ‘no’ it’s just ‘not yet’, but that doesn’t help when you did your absolute best and it’s the third ‘no’ today!

Review your process, seek feedback from colleagues and your line manager, and strategise for your next pitch. That said, dealing with rejection isn’t just about strategy – it’s also about mindset. Identify people in your network who can lift your spirits and re-energise you. Whether it’s a teammate, mentor, or even a trusted friend, having someone to turn to who understands your challenges is an absolute gift and will help you move forward.

Why Make the Move in 2025?

It’s an exciting time to be a Drinks Field Sales Representative with JME, and the drinks trade offers incredible opportunities for growth. Whether you’re exploring sales jobs in the drinks industry for the first time or pursuing a transition into Drinks Field Sales Management, there’s a place for you. From graduate jobs in the food and drink industry to senior-level roles, the drinks industry is calling.

At JME Drinks Consultancy we are passionate about supporting professionals in the field, and especially giving people like you the support they need to get to where they want to be. We believe a confident, well-equipped team is a high-performing team. With our focus on expert Field Sales recruitment and Drinks Field Sales training, we’re here to help you thrive, and we’ll do what it takes to achieve it.

Ready to Take the Leap?

Curious about what a Drinks Field Sales career could offer you? Or looking to join a team that provides exceptional support and top-notch training? Email Jenny@JMEdrinksconsultancy.co.uk to find out how JME can help you make 2025 your year for a career change.

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