Sales managers can work in retail or non-retail environments. Sales managers are accountable for day-to-day supervision of sales operations and sales associates. They might also have assistants. They are accountable for implementing the company's sales plans and sales strategies to achieve or surpass established sales targets.
They need to increase profits for the company without sacrificing customer satisfaction and, at the same time, provide an environment that is conducive to employees. Sales managers should be skilled and efficient salespeople. They should also possess the ability to manage and lead. Sales managers' responsibilities could include management of sales direct and monitoring inventory, reporting on sales and analysis of sales performance. They should be well-versed in the services or products their business sells. They should hold regularly scheduled meetings with the national or regional sales managers, whether in person or through video conference calls.
Employers demand that sales managers hold at least a bachelor's degree in business, finance, marketing or business, or any other relevant area. Some companies will consider candidates with a significant amount of years of experience instead of the bachelor's degree prerequisite. They should have exceptional customer service and interpersonal abilities. They should have excellent writing and oral communication abilities. They should stay current with the latest developments in their field. They could be asked to coach or mentor younger sales executives. They could be called upon to go on trips.