On paper, you guys have it all:
- Solid product
- Competitive commission
- Benefits that don’t make people cry
A job ad live on 4 platforms…
And still, nothing.
Or worse, you’re getting applicants who list “PowerPoint” under achievements and ghost by stage two.
Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. But here’s the uncomfortable truth:
Good salespeople don’t apply for jobs, they buy into missions.
If your packaging sales role isn’t getting traction with top performers, it’s probably not the comp… It’s the pitch.
Most packaging job specs are still stuck in input mode
They read like a checklist written by procurement:
- “Manage key accounts.”
- “Achieve sales targets.”
- “Liaise with internal stakeholders.”
Honestly? You could slap those lines on a role selling folding cartons or filing cabinets.
Top-tier commercial operators are scrolling past faster than you can say “ISO accredited.”
Because here’s what elite salespeople want to know:
What’s the story? What’s the challenge? Where’s the commercial upside?
And most job specs simply don’t answer that.
Here’s how to reframe it
Instead of:
“Manage key accounts across the Ohio region.”
Try:
“Lead retention and growth for packaging solutions helping Ohio-based FMCGs cut costs, reduce waste, and hit supply chain targets.”
Now we’re talking.
That’s a challenge worth solving. A number worth chasing.
It positions the salesperson as a driver of value, not a glorified admin.
Great reps aren’t looking to babysit accounts.
They’re looking to build, influence, solve and scale.
Summary
Start thinking of your job description like a sales email.
You’re not just informing, you’re persuading.
Instead of listing what the rep will do, show them why it matters.
Show them the impact. The mission. The narrative they’ll be part of.
Because while average reps chase commission…the best ones chase meaning, and commission follows.
