I am a painter & decorator
And I wrote based on my experience. We might be using the wrong word when calling order takers salesmen, but we do so to such an extent that most people don't realise the difference. I don't think my comment was unfair really as it was based on my own findings when dealing with salesmen (or order takers) in all walks of life.
It is popular to single out the motor trade, especially on a car forum, but I have found it to be true in other environments too.
Too many people in a selling situation are scared to say 'I don't know' and opt to make up something that seems to fit the customers requirements.