How did Penny get the sales representative job at Bernadette’s office in The Big Bang Theory? Details explored 

How did Penny get the sales representative job at Bernadette’s office in The Big Bang Theory? (Image Via CBS)
How did Penny get the sales representative job at Bernadette’s office in The Big Bang Theory? (Image Via CBS)

In The Big Bang Theory Season 8, Penny starts working as the sales representative at Bernadette's company.

Initially, Penny wanted to be an actor. After struggling in the industry, bagging a few credits while also working as a waitress for years at The Cheesecake Factory, she ended up picking up a sales job with Bernadette's help.

She initially doubts herself because of her lack of a relevant educational background. However, Bernadette assures her that she has the soft skills required to be a good sales representative in The Big Bang Theory.


Here is how Penny got the sales representative job at Bernadette’s office in The Big Bang Theory

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For years, Penny worked as a waitress while also auditioning for acting roles. She gets to do some hilarious ads like a haemorrhoid cream commercial, an NCIS one-line role, and some small theatre gigs. Years down the line, she began to question her career path. She realized that she is not happy with the way she is working and wouldn't mind having some financial stability.

This is when Bernadette worked in a high-paying position at ZanGen Pharmaceuticals, noticed Penny's personable nature and persuasive skills. She persuaded Penny to interview for the sales representative job at her office. Penny initially doubts herself, but Bernadette tells her how the job is more about charisma and people skills and less about a degree.


By season 11 of The Big Bang Theory, Penny becomes the head of the sales team

How did Penny get the sales representative job at Bernadette’s office in The Big Bang Theory? (Image Via CBS)
How did Penny get the sales representative job at Bernadette’s office in The Big Bang Theory? (Image Via CBS)

In the early years of The Big Bang Theory, her career was all about being an aspiring actress, as mentioned. In season 7 episode 13, she thought of quitting waitressing and focusing on acting full-time, but failed auditions pulled her more towards more stable work. After talking with Bernadette and coaching under her, she eventually nailed the sales interview. Despite not having much knowledge about the field, she was able to sell herself effectively, building rapport with doctors and scientists.

In season 8, episode 15, she finally gets the sales representative position, marking her move into a well-paying job. This came as a surprise to both her and her friends. She often finds herself stuck in the guilt of leaving acting, something she loved and was passionate about.

Even at the job, she struggled initially, but was later called her Boss Dan's third-best salesperson. By season 10, she gets to work within a bigger territory, sliding into PR work like getting to escort Bill Gates. It is only by Season 11 and 12, she builds genuine confidence in herself as a professional by leading the sales team in the company. A rival firm also tries to poach her by offering higher pay, proving her calibre in the field, and value in the market.

Therefore, we can say that it was Penny's natural charm and Bernadette's help that landed her the job.

Edited by Nimisha