Often on the move for their work, nomadic salespeople or sales who manage large territories on behalf of the companies whose markets they develop are mistakenly regarded as mere tourists. Yet their professional lives are littered with demands, starting with preparation for their trips, time spent away from home, and challenges that don't always make these trips enjoyable.
Exciting, did you say?... At first glance, it may seem so, but the realities of business travel are frequently different from the idyllic image of tourism. According to a study by the Association Nationale des Vendeurs Nomades, the average length of a nomadic sales career is 5 years, with some people leaving for reasons such as "wanting to settle down and start a family". Generally younger than sedentary salespeople, most nomadic salespeople are aged between 25 and 35, and only 25% remain in their jobs for more than 5 years.
Although they travel to different cities, countries, etc., the sometimes long and uncomfortable journeys bring their share of stress and fatigue, not to mention late-night closures. Encountering a multitude of cultures is always a plus. Still, it also means adapting to one's environment, sometimes with staggered working hours, and being confronted with a different vision of business, which can also lead to difficult situations, such as failed negotiations or intractable customers.
Away from home, they are nonetheless obliged to avoid the obligations that fall to them, and this implies being organized enough to juggle their professional responsibilities (objectives to achieve, meetings to prepare, presentations to make, administrative formalities such as visas, passports, logistics) and their personal and family needs (not being able to be there for family and friends when needed). Unlike tourists, who can take advantage of their free time to explore and relax, nomadic vendors are often very busy. Their busy schedules generally leave them little time to explore tourist attractions or enjoy their stay to the full.
In conclusion, nomadic salespeople are no ordinary tourists. Long journeys, many challenges, and personal sacrifices mark their working lives. They recognize their contribution, and supporting their well-being while on the road is essential. By understanding and respecting the realities of their business trips, it is necessary to acknowledge their contribution to the economy and business development.
