If you want a sales career with the freedom of remote work, becoming a remote closer might be perfect for you. The remote closing industry is booming, with lots of opportunities.
A remote closer is a sales pro who’s great at closing deals from their home office. In this article, we’ll explain what they do, what’s needed for the job, and provide info on salary and job prospects. Let’s get started!
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What is Remote Closing?
Remote closing, also known as “high ticket” and “inbound” closing, is a modern sales approach where individuals partner with online businesses to sell their high-priced offerings. In return, they earn a commission.
This unique industry emerged during the online course craze of 2013-2014 when digital entrepreneurs started selling courses ranging from $297 to $997. As the market got crowded, entrepreneurs shifted to offering pricier and more extensive coaching products, often labeled “high ticket” offers, priced between $2,000 and $10,000+.
Most potential buyers weren’t ready to invest in these high-ticket products through traditional online course sales funnels. They needed personalized 1-on-1 calls to address their questions and concerns. However, busy entrepreneurs couldn’t manage sales calls and run their businesses simultaneously. Hence, the birth of the remote closing industry.
What Does a Remote Closer Do?
Remote closers have diverse responsibilities that can vary based on their specific sales niche. Here, we’ll outline some of the key tasks that remote closers commonly perform:
- Lead Qualification and Follow-Up: Assess the quality of leads to determine their potential for conversion. Follow up with leads through phone calls, emails, or virtual meetings to nurture them through the sales funnel.
- Sales Presentations and Demonstrations: Conduct virtual presentations and product demonstrations to showcase the features and benefits of the product or service. Tailor presentations to address the specific needs and pain points of each potential customer.
- Negotiation and Objection Handling: Engage in negotiations to address any concerns or objections raised by potential customers. Provide solutions and reassurances to overcome objections and move the sale forward.
- Closing the Sale: Use persuasive techniques to secure a commitment from the customer. Finalize the sale by ensuring all necessary paperwork and agreements are completed accurately.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Maintain detailed records of interactions with leads and customers in a CRM system. Track the progress of each lead through the sales pipeline and update their status accordingly.
- Collaboration with Sales Team: Work closely with other members of the sales team to share insights and strategies. Coordinate with marketing and customer support teams to ensure a seamless customer experience.
- Performance Tracking and Reporting: Monitor personal sales performance against targets and goals. Prepare regular reports on sales activities, conversion rates, and revenue generated.
How Do Remote Closers Get Paid?
Remote closers typically get paid through a commission-based compensation structure, where they earn a percentage of the sales they close. Here are some common ways remote closers get paid:
- Commission-Only Pay Structure: Many remote closer roles are 100% commission-based, meaning their entire income comes from the commissions they earn on closed sales. The commission rate can vary, but it’s common to see rates between 10-20% of the sale price. For example, if a remote closer is selling a $5,000 product and earning a 15% commission, they would make $750 for each sale they close.
- Base Salary + Commission: Some companies offer a base salary in addition to commissions. The base salary is usually lower than a traditional salaried role, with commissions making up the bulk of the income potential. For instance, a remote closer could earn a $2,000 monthly base salary plus a 10% commission on sales. This provides some income stability while still incentivizing closers to maximize their sales performance.
- Tiered Commission Structure: Companies may use tiered commission rates based on performance milestones or sales volume. Higher commission rates kick in after reaching certain sales targets. For example, a remote closer could earn 8% commission on the first $100,000 in sales, 10% for sales between $100,000-$200,000, and 12% for sales over $200,000 in a given period.
- Bonuses and Incentives: In addition to commissions, some companies offer bonuses or incentives for top performers, such as cash bonuses, vacations, or other rewards for exceeding sales quotas or achieving specific milestones.
- Revenue Sharing: In some cases, remote closers may earn a percentage of the overall revenue they generate for the company, rather than just a commission on the initial sale.
While specific salary figures can vary based on experience and location, the average salary for a closer is around $80,824 per year. Keep in mind that your salary offer may differ if your experience is in a specific niche, and you apply for a closer position in a different field, such as healthcare to industrial sales.
How to Become a Remote Closer?
1. Gain Experience
Before applying for a remote closing job, you need to acquire some experience in sales or related fields such as customer service or marketing.
Entry-level positions like sales representative or appointment setter can provide valuable insights into the sales process.
Internships and volunteer roles can also be beneficial for acquiring practical experience and develop necessary skills.
2. Develop Essential Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial for remote closers. You need to convey your message clearly and persuasively through virtual mediums.
In addition, you need to learn and master various sales techniques, including cold calling, handling objections, and closing techniques. This can be achieved through formal education, online courses, or self-study.
Apart from that, you’ll have to develop strong negotiation skills to close deals and get familiar with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot), video conferencing tools (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet), and other sales-related technologies.
3. Obtain Sales Certifications
While not mandatory, obtaining certifications in sales techniques can enhance your credibility.
You may find relevant courses on Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and specialized programs such as the Remote Closing Academy.
4. Build a Professional Network
Engage in networking activities by attending virtual webinars, joining sales-focused online communities, and connecting with industry leaders. Building a professional network can help you find job opportunities and gain ongoing support and mentorship.
5. Set Up an Effective Remote Work Environment
Create a dedicated, quiet workspace with a reliable internet connection, high-quality headset, and sales and CRM software.
An ergonomic setup with appropriate lighting and furniture is also important for productivity.
6. Apply for Jobs
Use job boards like LinkedIn, Indeed, and remote-specific platforms to find remote closer positions. Tailor your resume to highlight your sales skills, experiences, and interest in remote sales.
You can establish a strong online presence by creating a professional LinkedIn profile, participating in industry forums, and sharing valuable content related to sales and remote closing.
7. Continuous Learning and Improvement
Participate in sales and public speaking training, webinars, and online courses to continuously improve your skills. Mock calls and role-plays can also help refine your sales pitch and communication skills.
You may find a mentor who can provide feedback, guidance, and support as you navigate your career as a remote closer.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Remote Closer?
It generally takes anywhere from a few months to a couple of years to gain proficiency as a remote closer. This period includes undergoing training, acquiring necessary certifications, and developing skills through practical experience.
Having several years of sales experience and a strong history of closing deals can accelerate the process. Many remote closers develop their negotiating skills through prior sales roles, which can shorten the learning curve. For example, they usually start at entry-level positions in sales, customer service, or telemarketing to gain practical experience and understand the dynamics of remote sales.
While there are no strict educational requirements, having a bachelor’s degree in sales, marketing, business, or a related field can be beneficial and may expedite the process of becoming a remote closer.
You should also keep an eye on job boards and network if you want to shorten the time it takes to secure a job in this field.
What’s The Difference Between A Closer & A Setter?
Closely related but with distinct roles, here’s how a closer and a setter differ:
1. Closer
A closer is the final deal-sealer. They excel in sales and negotiation, with a primary mission of closing sales. Their expertise lies in overcoming objections, negotiating terms, and securing commitments from clients.
2. Setter
In contrast, a setter’s primary role is generating leads and arranging appointments with potential clients. Their focus is on cultivating relationships, building trust, and creating opportunities for sales. Setters lay the groundwork by fostering rapport, ultimately establishing a pipeline of leads for closers.
These roles may seem similar, but they each play a crucial part in the sales process, with closers sealing the deal and setters opening doors for potential sales.
Pros and Cons of Being a Remote Closer
The Pros
- High Income Potential: Remote closers, especially those dealing with high-ticket items, can earn significant incomes. High-ticket remote closers can make between $10,000 to $40,000 per month, depending on their performance and the value of the deals they close.
- Flexible Work Schedule: Remote closers have the flexibility to work from any location with an internet connection. This allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to travel or manage personal commitments alongside work.
- Global Reach: The role allows remote closers to engage with clients from different regions without the need for extensive travel. This expands the business’s market reach and allows closers to work with a diverse range of clients and industries.
The Cons
- Income Variability: The commission-based nature of the job means that income can be unpredictable. Earnings depend heavily on performance, the number of deals closed, and the value of those deals.
- High Pressure and Demanding Goals: Remote closers often face high-pressure situations and demanding sales targets. The need to consistently meet or exceed these targets can be stressful.
- Isolation: Working remotely can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation due to the lack of direct personal interaction with colleagues and clients. This can affect job satisfaction and mental well-being.
- Communication Hurdles: Effective communication can be challenging, particularly when dealing with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Misunderstandings and miscommunications can occur more easily in a virtual environment.
- Distractions: Home and remote workspaces often blur the line between personal and professional life, leading to potential distractions that can affect productivity.
- Cybersecurity Risks: Remote closers are often exposed to increased cybersecurity risks when accessing sensitive client information over unsecured networks. Robust security measures, such as using VPNs, are necessary to mitigate these risks.
- Need for Continuous Learning: Success in remote closing requires ongoing investment in sales training and skill development. Staying updated with industry trends and continuously improving sales techniques is crucial.
- Potential for Long Hours: Depending on the number of leads and clients, remote closers may need to work long hours to meet their targets and close deals, which can impact work-life balance.
Should You Make Money Remote Closing?
Whether you should pursue a career in remote closing depends on several factors, including your skills, career goals, and personal preferences.
Remote closers, especially those dealing with high-ticket items, can earn significant incomes. For instance, high-ticket remote closers can make six-figure salaries, with some earning between $10,000 to $40,000 per month.
The average salary for remote closers in the United States ranges between $45,000 to $100,000 annually, with the potential for higher earnings through commissions and bonuses.
As a remote closer, you can enjoy the flexibility to work from anywhere with an internet connection, which can lead to a better work-life balance.
However, the commission-based nature of the job means that income can be unpredictable. Earnings depend heavily on performance, the number of deals closed, and the value of those deals. Some months may be more lucrative than others, which can be a challenge for those who prefer a stable and predictable income.
Remote closers often face high-pressure situations and demanding sales targets. The role requires resilience and the ability to handle rejection, as not every lead will convert into a sale.
That said, if you are comfortable with the challenges and are willing to invest in continuous learning and self-improvement, remote closing can be a lucrative and fulfilling career path.
Anthony Smith is an internet entrepreneur. He created the Side Hustle Ideas Database to help people find side hustles for making extra money, with the potential of turning into a full-time income.
After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a business degree, he gained business experience at a consulting firm. At the same time, he tried various side hustles including freelance writing, blogging, and eCommerce. He managed to turn his side hustles into a full-time business, earning over $3 million. Now, he enjoys financial freedom and travels around the world as a digital nomad.