Why an Account Manager Is Important
What is an account manager, and why should emerging brands recruit the right specialist to succeed? Most entrepreneurs will address this question as they firmly believe that their solutions are determinants of their market performance. Meeting industry standards while introducing an original product or service ensures future growth. However, account managers play a critical role in reaching clients and maintaining customer relationships, which drives revenue growth.
What Does an Account Manager Do?
It is possible to illustrate the professional’s duties as a link between the product and clients. In this context, an account manager is responsible for customer relationships and sales on the client’s end, while the specialist actively communicates with the development team to align the product to customer needs. Through upselling and cross-selling, the company generates profits necessary for scaling. Moreover, an account manager builds brand awareness and credibility through long-term relationships.
Specifying the Role of an Account Manager in Tech Company
1. Business development
A fundamental part of an account manager’s job is to develop effective strategies for scaling. In turn, the specialist creates a strategic plan to secure new valuable partnerships while revitalizing the existing ones. The account manager also takes an active role in managing advertising campaigns.
2. Project Management
Some organizations may assign projects to account managers, as product optimization requires cooperation with a development team to implement changes. In this context, specialists use CRM in addition to project management tools to manage deadlines and goals. They also assign and track due dates to meet the customer’s request on time.
3. Sales
From negotiating to closing deals, a strong account manager should know how to gain a loyal customer base in addition to successful sales. This aspect is essential for tech enterprises as customer loyalty is the best marketing for services. Moreover, an account manager also develops sales strategies based on the company’s products and market trends.
4. Customer Service
This role may vary depending on the type of solution. However, an account manager must actively communicate with clients to provide the necessary support or resolve potential problems before they arise. This role has a direct impact on sales strategies as it affects customer satisfaction.
Essential Skills for Becoming an Expert
1. Communication Skills
An account manager is a skilled communicator who is capable of explaining complex concepts and terminology in simple terms. Active listening skills are also essential to build customer relationships, while the expert receives feedback for making improvements in the product. Professional verbal and writing skills are necessary for maintaining productive communication with internal stakeholders.
2. Market Awareness
The tech industry has a changing and disruptive environment. An account manager has to understand and foresee changes to adjust the strategies. This skill also provides a competitive advantage.
3. Time Management
As an account manager regularly deals with multiple tasks, it is important to be disciplined and able to meet deadlines. Indeed, CRM tools simplify task management. The specialist, however, must decide how to prioritize tasks and clients to achieve the best outcomes.
4. Problem-Solving Skills
An account manager should be ready for conflicts and crises. It is possible to admit that this competency requires all the abovementioned skills to provide a definite solution to unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, the professional must demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to resolve issues.
Career Paths and Lateral Moves for an Account Manager
The tech industry continuously integrates with other sectors, especially healthcare, logistics, telecom, and finance. While different companies allow junior account managers to become a product manager or a head of department, lateral moves are also possible for experienced workers. They include:
- Marketing Manager
- Industry-Specific Account Manager
- Technical Account Manager
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Solution Engineer
Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to learn responsibilities before applying for the desired position. Using networking opportunities is also a decent chance to change the industry or learn a new role. Thus, an account manager has the essential skills to make this move, opening new career opportunities.
Final Commentaries on Emerging Trends and Challenges
The article highlights that working as an account manager is an excellent chance to join the tech industry. While this position provides favorable conditions for professional growth, there are distinct challenges that may affect the described experiences. These nuances consist of:
- Data-driven Account Strategies
- Digital Transformation
- Disruptive Innovations
Consequently, account managers must be prepared for fast-paced and unforeseen shifts in the market to adjust their strategies. This position also requires work with data and software, which complicates the learning process. However, starting a career as an account manager means becoming a crucial part of the brand and joining a thriving industry.
