Cracking the employer's code on green career ads

What can a job description reveal about the candidates they seek?

April 01, 2025

Hey,

Welcome to Green Jobs Rising!✨ It’s April fools day! You might expect a prank, but no fooling here! This is a real job ad. If job advertisements sometimes feel like a puzzle 🧩packed with industry jargon, vague expectations, and unspoken requirements, this is the place for you. To help you confidently navigate postings, we’re breaking down a real job ad.

This guide will help you read between the lines 📖🔍 of job descriptions and understand what employers are really looking for. You’ll also find the latest job postings in the sustainability sector. 💼🌱

All the best in your job hunting! 🚀

⏳ Today’s reading time: 3 mins

Understanding this job ad: Telesales agent at SunCulture

Sun Culture is on a mission to empower smallholder farmers by providing off-grid solar solutions for water access, irrigation, lighting, and mobile charging. They are currently seeking a Telesales Agent to connect with potential customers, provide expert advice, and drive sales of their innovative products.

First things first

Before applying, take time to break down the key aspects of the job:

  • Understand the job title – What does a Telesales Agent do? What tools do they use? How do they interact with customers?

  • Research the company – What products does Sun Culture offer? Which markets do they serve? How do they operate?

  • Understand the expectations – What are the daily responsibilities? What skills and qualifications are required?

Let's break down the job ad:

The job description outlines the essentials, but there are key takeaways that aren’t explicitly stated:

  • High-pressure sales role. The mention of sales targets, conversion rates, outbound calls, and quotas indicates a results-driven environment. If you're uncomfortable with performance-based roles, this may not be the right fit.

  • Handling rejection and staying resilient. Expect a high call volume; some clients will be receptive, others will hang up immediately, and some may be rude. Can you handle rejection and keep going? Success in this role requires persistence, resilience, and grit.

  • Thinking beyond the script. Many telesales jobs use call scripts, but not every conversation follows a script. You’ll need to think on your feet, adapt to different customers, and answer unexpected questions confidently. Being a proactive decision-maker is crucial.

  • Fast learner needed. The ad mentions the ability to learn about products and services but doesn’t indicate formal training. This suggests that candidates must be self-motivated learners who can quickly grasp product details with or without training.

  • More than just sales - customer service too. You'll be responsible for handling complaints and troubleshooting issues, meaning this is not purely a sales role. Managing customer dissatisfaction can be stressful, so strong problem-solving skills and patience are essential.

  • Industry knowledge is a plus. The job ad hints at a "passion for irrigation" and an understanding of the industry, which means prior experience in agriculture or irrigation sales would be an advantage, even though it is not explicitly listed as a requirement.

  • Workload expectations. The requirement to "go above and beyond" the set talk time and the expectation to meet deadlines indicate that the job might demand long working hours or extended shifts.

  • The pay structure might be performance-based. While the job ad does not specify the salary structure, the emphasis on sales quotas and conversion rates implies that part of the pay might be tied to performance (e.g., commissions or bonuses).

This role is perfect for driven, goal-oriented individuals who excel in a fast-paced, high-pressure sales environment. If you’re resilient, adaptable, cool temper, and persuasive, Sun Culture’s Tele sales Agent position could be a great stepping stone in your career.

Would you apply? If so, be sure to tailor your CV to showcase your sales experience, track record of meeting quotas, CRM proficiency, resilience, and ability to engage and persuade customers. Good luck!

Guide to job posting in the renewables sector

Are you interested in sustainability and want to put the skills you’ve learned into practice? Below are some job listings for you to check out:

Explore more opportunities at the Shortlist job board

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The eagle does not hunt flies

Arican Proverb