Pros
Under the original structure of this Direct Sales Representative role, in 2009, the position was a dream, a pleasure, & an honor to be committed to. A secure base salary, aggressive commissions, & a wealth of benefits. At 100% to target, a DSR would earn $77k in their 1st year, out in the field. An absolute dream job, for the autonomous, self-directed, committed, ambitious & persuasive sales pro, who can sell value with integrity. Top performers would also receive recognition & oftentimes supplemental bonuses or awards, during quarterly regional "pep-rallies." Supervisory & colleague support, initially, was plentiful. As with all things business, desire for even healthier profit margins, invokes change; at a cost to an essential driving-force of business...the sales team.
Cons
Over time, after the DSR's role inception, in 2009, it was discovered by "Corporate", that several top performers, were making far too much money [$85k - $100k+]. Changes were made to the DSR's commission structure, clearly reducing earnings, at the same performance levels. The essence of a successful sales pro, is the ability to network. Networking was NOT permitted! Bitter jealousy towards, & the alienation of top performers, from the rest of the core teams, was rampant. Favoritism amongst Supervisors, became painfully abvious; bending the rules for some, & not for others. Proof of said favoritism was revealed, however, since the investigating team for business practice issues, was handled by an internal team, the proof was "swept under the rug", per se. Opportunities for advancement, were few & far between.
