To get started as a freelance sales agent you will need to determine what types of products and/or services you would like to sell. For instance, if you are interested in electronics, a company that offers cell phones, one that offers computer sales and service, and a satellite television company would be a great combination, as none of these items would be considered a competitor of the other.

Once you have determined an area of interst, start by contacting the owner's/manager's of each of the types of businesses in your local area. Find out if they would be interested in an additional sales rep (which is the case for many small businesses) and explain that you would be interested in providing a few additional sales for them each week on a commission only basis.

When you have determined an interest, make appointments with each of the companies. Bring your own contract that states that you are an independent representative and that you will be paid on a commission only basis of 30% of each sale. If a company isn't willing to pay 30%, I suggest going to the next company. Working for a straight commission at any less than that is not worth your effort (time, fuel, etc.).

When an agreement is made, you will then need to collect as much sales material and information as possible to assist you in making sales. Find out everything there is to know about the product/service, this will be needed to answer any question your clients may have.

The method for finding clients will be determined by the types of products/services you are offering. However, unless you are an established sales rep in your area, cold-calling will almost always be the best way to start until referrals start coming your way. This can be done by phone or in person. I suggest starting with business-to-business options as this provides an easier route when making cold calls. Calling or stopping by businesses is a much easier strategy than doing so in a residential setting.