If you can't afford to employ a dedicated sales person but want to target new markets, a commercial sales agent could offer the solution. Naomi Marks finds out how recruiting an independent specialist could increase your reach A commercial sales agent is a self-employed sales person who will sell your goods or services in return for commission. Businesses usually appoint agents because they need specialist help in reaching markets in a particular sector or geographical location. "They suit businesses where personal selling methods are preferred to arms-length sales channels, such as mail shots," explains Paul Brown, managing director of sales agent consultancy Agent Base. "Agents can also help those with a fragmented customer base," he adds. "Many small firms use them to access domestic markets, but they can be particularly useful in selling abroad where different languages and customs can be an issue." Sales agents as a cost-effective so...