What's the role of a sales manager?

I'm curious about what a sales manager does day-to-day. Is it more about leading a team or hitting sales targets personally? Considering it as a career path after graduation. Any insights or experiences would be great!

As someone who regularly interacts with sales professionals, I can elaborate on the role of a sales manager. Broadly speaking, a sales manager is in charge of leading and guiding a team of salespeople in a company. Their duties go beyond personal sales objectives and focus more on team performance and strategic planning.

Here are some key responsibilities:

1. Setting Sales Goals and Targets: Sales managers often set individual and team sales targets. They analyze market trends and competition to develop strategies that help the entire team meet these goals.

2. Training and Coaching: A significant part of the role is developing the sales skills of their team members. This could mean conducting formal sales training, mentoring individuals, coaching on effective selling techniques, and offering product knowledge.

3. Overseeing Sales Operations: They oversee the team's operations and sales processes to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. This could involve managing budgets, implementing new sales plans, or enhancing existing processes.

4. Performance Assessment: Sales managers track and report on sales activities and performances. They may also conduct performance reviews, providing feedback and areas for improvement to their team members.

5. Building Relationships: A critical part of the role is fostering and maintaining relationships with key clients. While not responsible for making every sale, they will often step in for high-stakes deals or to resolve significant client issues.

Every industry and company may vary in its specific expectations and structure, but generally, these key responsibilities are constant. It's a role best suited for people who are goal-oriented, strategic, and have excellent interpersonal and leadership skills. If you are considering it as a career path, internships or entry-level sales roles could be beneficial for gaining experience and understanding the role better.