Share This Article
Many people think that being a sales manager is very easy and this job suitable for everyone. There is a stereotype that those who can’t find themselves elsewhere try to become sales managers. But this is not true.
To become a sales manager, you need to communicate, be stress-resistant, know psychology, economics, and marketing. After reading this article, you will understand who a sales manager is and how much you can earn in this area. We will determine what professional skills and personal qualities are needed to become a successful specialist, and how to grow in this profession.
Who is a sales manager, and what does he do?
There is a stereotype that sales managers are arrogant manipulators who press, beg, and persuade to buy useless goods. But this is not the case.
At large companies, the sales manager is a valuable professional. He speaks favorably about the product’s advantages, knows how to communicate with picky clients, study their needs and offer them profitable solutions. Sometimes a sales manager has to process a return of goods, respond to complaints, or collect positive reviews from customers. The list of daily tasks depends on the specific company a sales manager works for.
Here are the typical tasks which a sales manager does:
- searching for new clients
- working with the client base: calling, personal meetings, etc.
- support: preparation of contracts, communication with clients and partners, etc.
Pros and cons
There are advantages and disadvantages while being a sales manager.
Pros:
- earnings depend on the sales volume, so there is no maximum wage
- you can choose an exciting business area and develop yourself in it
- it is easy to make valuable contacts
- age is not important
- you can improve communication skills
- you can reach the head of the department in the 1-3 years
- flexible schedule
- higher education sometimes is optional.
Cons:
- you need to call strangers constantly, and not all of them are polite
- in a seasonal business, there will be few sales for several months of the year, so that your salary will be not as big as you desire
- you have to fight for clients even with colleagues
- many companies have a dress code.
Skills required for a sales manager:
Desire is not enough to become a professional. A sales manager use knowledge from several areas while working: psychology, marketing, economics, etc.
Below are the skills that employers tend to mention in job descriptions:
- Knowledge of the product you sell. It is important that the manager can answer any question about the product.
- Knowledge of sales technologies. Depending on the problems and objections of the client, the manager applies the techniques of advisory, flexible or active sales.
- Ability to manage sales in CRM systems. You will have to draw up a sales plan, collect a customer base and manage potential deals in programs that help automate processes.
- Negotiation skills. Clients are different, and you always must reach a compromise.
- Cold calling skills. You need to call potential customers a lot and draw their attention to your product or service.
Do you find yourself as a Sales manager? If yes, do not forget to check out Jooble website with lots of unique positions.
