A telemarketer's responsibilities vary slightly by field, but they are generally responsible for calling potential customers over the telephone using automatic dialing systems and/or other phone systems. They are responsible for persuading potential customers to buy services or products by following a prepared sales pitch with product information and price quotes. Once a sale has been made, the telemarketer is responsible for recording names, addresses, and other pertinent information. Telemarketers are also responsible for following up on previous calls, as the first call may not lead to sales. In all tasks, they are required to follow all organizational guidelines and policies.

This is generally not a physically demanding job, as the majority takes place on the phone and entering data into a computer. This may be either a full-time or part-time position, and telemarketers may make outbound and/or inbound calls. Typically, the telemarketer has an immediate supervisor to whom they report, as well as a daily or weekly sales goal.

Telemarketers typically need to have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Since this is often an entry level job, little or no work experience is generally required. Telemarketers must be self-motivated to meet sales quotas and be able to handle rejections on a constant basis. Having very strong verbal communication skills is a must. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Telemarketer Tasks

• Deliver prepared sales talks, reading from scripts that describe products or services, in order to persuade potential customers to purchase a product or service or to make a donation.
• Obtain customer information such as name, address, and payment method, and enter orders into computer.
• Explain products or services and prices, and answer questions from customers.