National Salesperson Day: Celebrating Service, not Stereotypes

National Salesperson Day: Celebrating Service, Not Stereotypes

“What do you do?” “I’m in sales.” … And they picture Lundegaard in the Trucoat scene from Fargo. Ha! (It’s linked below if you haven’t seen it).

Every year, on the second Friday of December, we observe National Salesperson Day—a moment to honor the individuals who drive commerce, build connections, and deliver solutions. With over 13 million Americans working in sales, this profession is one of the most significant forces in our economy. Yet, for all its importance, sales often carries a stigma, conjuring images of merrily skiing down slippery slopes and using pushy tactics, manipulation, and disingenuity. While there are certainly bad actors and toxic cultures in every profession, that narrative is generally anachronistic; the modern sales landscape is service- and client- focused, in alignment with the expectation of the modern buyer.

Sales is Service

True sales is not about pressure or deception; it’s about understanding and meeting needs. At its heart, the profession is one of giving – and of integrity. It requires compassion, consistency, creativity, authenticity, audacity, self-discipline, and a genuine desire to help. The best salespeople don’t just “sell stuff” —they provide tailored solutions that improve lives. They listen, empathize, and work tirelessly to meet the needs of the clients they serve.

A Hodgepodge of Hats

Many people don’t realize just how wonderfully challenging and multifaceted a career in sales can be. Sales professionals are not just selling; many are solopreneurs, responsible for their own KPI’s & success through client acquisition, strategizing, marketing, networking, professional development, sales, service delivery, financial management, administrative work, and more —often over extended periods. They face rejection frequently, requiring resilience and optimism. And in today’s world, they must master a host of technologies – like customer relationship management (CRM) systems, data analytics, & AI – to stay competitive.

The Human Side of Sales

Despite the rewarding aspects of the job, the human cost of a sales career can be significant. According to the 2024 State of Mental Health in Sales Report, 70% of salespeople report struggling with mental health issues, a number that has risen steadily over the past three years. Sales is in the top 20 of the CDC’s occupational suicide list. The pressures of meeting quotas, facing rejection, navigating toxic or antiquated cultures or leaders, and the need to maintain a positive demeanor under the weight of it all can take a toll.

But we do have a tool in our own hearts to elevate ourselves and our profession – our own values.

Research shows that aligning our values with our actions can have a profound impact on well-being. When sales professionals approach their work with authenticity and heart, focusing on service rather than pressure, they often find greater satisfaction—and success.

Looking for inspiration? Some of my go-to’s are Simon Sinek (Start with Why, The Infinite Game) and David Mattson (Selling to the Modern Buyer); inspiring sales podcasts like Selling From the Heart or How to Succeed (Sandler Sales Podcast); or the foundational CPSP certification course with the National Association of Sales Professionals – and i still follow their Daily Sales Inspiration.

• In fact, today’s NASP Daily Sales Success reflection is: The sales profession requires commitment in order to create a successful career and it’s important to assess what’s driving you and where you’ve placed your attention. Dedication drives purpose, absorbs responsibility, and dictates your actions. Think about what motivates your level of dedication to the company, to the customer, to the paycheck, to your team, and to yourself.

Alignment with values starts with self reflection and awareness. We can trace that basic concept back to thinkers of ancient Greece, where Γνῶθι σαυτόν (Know Thyself) was inscribed on the Temple of Apollo at Delphi.

Our companies have core values and mission & vision statements to guide them. What guides you? Reflect on your own inner compass:

• What are your core values?
  • Why are those your core values?
• What is your personal mission statement?
  • Do you apply that to daily decision making?
• What is your personal vision statement for your life?
  • Imagine many, many years down the road to your last day on earth. When you look back at your life, what did your your time here mean? What is the impact you had? Will you be proud of the difference you made?

BTW, You’re in sales, too.

Whether your actual profession is sales or not, you’re in sales. You help people every day find solutions, solve problems, and address concerns. Whether that is for your family, your friends, or your clients – or in an unexpected place. I recall interviewing for my current (first) sales role when i was asked about sales experience. None … Well, i once established a controversial diversity program in a conservative space. So i identified & understood a need, offered a solution, effectively communicated value to the institution, followed through with program development, and maintained a consistent increase of program participation.

What non-sales sales experience is in your background?

A Moment of Gratitude.

On this National Salesperson Day, let’s celebrate the sales professionals who embody the true spirit of the role: those who lead with empathy, innovate with creativity, and connect with compassion. Let’s also commit to supporting them, recognizing the challenges they face, and fostering a culture of care in the profession.

Sales is not about winning regardless of moral costs. It’s creating value for others and making a positive difference.

To all the salespeople out there who do this every day—thank you. Your work matters, and so do you.

In case you haven’t seen it (caution, contains adult language):