Sales development representatives seek sales leads through marketing on social media, email, and phone calls. As a sales development representative, you determine if a sales lead has a good chance of purchasing the product or service you are marketing before sending that lead to a sales closer. This process allows salespeople to focus on closing the deal instead of prospecting. You speak with main buyers at companies or with prospective buyers who contact you after seeing your marketing materials, and you discuss their needs to see if your product is a good fit for their overall goals. Many sales development reps have a degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Others enter the role without formal education but with several years of experience in sales or marketing.