I have discovered a passion for working with small to mid-size business owners to help them solve challenges or take advantage of opportunities. As a result, I am looking at transitioning my career to an inside B2B account management type role. While I have a solid background that includes corporate communications and customer service, I have found that I am not a competitive candidate for my ideal jobs due to a lack of proven sales or account management experience. What are the best ways to gain experience in the short-term to begin a successful, long-term career in B2B account management at a growing organization?
This is a great question. A transition I myself had to make several years back from having a background in civil engineering, into becoming the CEO of the UK division of a Canadian Software company.
There's no real one answer, but remember when its comes to sales/accounts you've got to make sure your voice is heard the loudest. If you're going to email people saying "I would like to change my career", I'd imagine most would pass as it sounds like more effort on the employer than the potential employee.
A good way to start would be to think of creative and different way to reach the 'decision maker', thus demonstrating your acumen.
I'd recommend teasing out the typical characteristics expected of an Account Manager from your current role and apply them. Oh, and be super knowledgable on the product. We used to get 'experienced' accounts managers apply, but hadn't bothered to work out what we do.
Best of luck. Happy to share with you my experiences.
Answered 7 years ago
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