Log InSign Up
Article

What does a Sales Manager do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A Sales Manager is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating the activities of sales workers in an organization. They may manage a team of salespeople in a large company or they may be responsible for the sales activities in a small business.

Sales Manager job duties include:

  • Planning and achieving sales targets
  • Organizing and managing the sales team
  • Recruiting, training and appraising staff
  • Researching the market and identifying potential customers
  • Generating leads and following up on sales opportunities
  • Developing sales strategies and setting targets
  • Monitoring competitor activity and generating new business ideas
  • Regularly reviewing sales performance
  • Reporting to senior managers

Sales Manager Job Requirements

A Sales Manager is responsible for leading and managing a team of salespeople. They develop strategies and objectives to increase sales and grow the business. A Sales Manager should have a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field. They should also have experience leading and managing a team, as well as experience in sales. Certification in sales or management is also beneficial.

Sales Manager Skills

  • Communication
  • Motivation
  • Leadership
  • Teamwork
  • Persuasion
  • Negotiation
  • Closing skills
  • Time management
  • Organization
  • Strategic thinking
  • Creativity
  • Confidence

Related: Top Sales Manager Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Sales Manager

Sales managers are responsible for leading and managing a team of salespeople. They work to ensure that their team meets or exceeds sales targets. In order to become a sales manager, one must first have significant experience working in sales. Additionally, sales managers must have strong leadership and communication skills. They must be able to motivate and inspire their team to reach its full potential.

If you are interested in becoming a sales manager, start by honing your own sales skills. Work hard to increase your own personal sales numbers. Become a top performer in your company. This will show that you have the ability to sell, and it will also give you the credibility needed to lead a team of salespeople.

In addition to increasing your own sales numbers, start developing your leadership skills. Take on additional responsibilities at work, such as leading projects or mentoring other employees. If possible, join Toastmasters or another organization that can help you improve your public speaking and communication skills. These skills will be essential in leading a successful sales team.

When you feel ready to take on the role of sales manager, start applying for jobs. Look for opportunities at companies where you would like to work. Alternatively, you can also reach out to companies directly and inquire about open positions. Be prepared to sell yourself during the interview process – emphasize your experience, successes, and leadership abilities. If hired, remember that being a successful sales manager requires hard work and dedication. But if you are up for the challenge, it can be an extremely rewarding career!

Related: Sales Manager Resume Example

Related: Sales Manager Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles