Dear sales manager,
How many times have I heard you say that you want me to reach my full potential, exceed my quota, become a superstar. You might not believe it, but nothing would make me happier. Since we have similar goals, I would like to write down some ways you can help me.
- Give me products with fair prices and competitive features so that I have an equal chance to compete in the market.
- Provide me with the education and training I need to represent the company competently and professionally and not to make a fool of myself in front of clients. I realize I’ll learn a lot from actual experience, but get started right away.
- Provide me with the internal support I need to serve my customers in a way that leads to repeat business and long-term relationships.
- Set me realistic goals and quotas and reward me well when my performance is truly outstanding. I know the consequences of not cutting the mustard.
- Let me be clear about what you and the company expect from me so we all have a clear understanding of what good performance looks like. Let me add something to those expectations.
- Work with me on site to improve my productivity by watching me in action and giving me helpful feedback, even if it hurts a little. A little “point and tell” on your part would also be useful.
- Convince me that things aren’t as bad as they seem when I’m coming down. I don’t always see the big picture.
- Poke me when you know I’m saying goodbye. I may not like it, but in my heart I know I need it. Take care of me as a person without overly interfering in my personal life.
- Criticize my actions when I make mistakes, but don’t discount my personal worth. Show me what to do next time.
- Admit it if you screw it up, even you, my sales manager. It just proves that you are a real person and I will respect you more.
- Gift me with my successes, even if they may not be entirely due to my own efforts. It makes me feel good and sell better when that happens.
- Stimulate me with some strong competitions to compete in, have fun and win some prizes.
- Help me maintain a strong self-image in the face of countless setbacks, disappointments, and defeats.
- Make me feel part of a team I can be proud of and make me proud of my boss.
- Treat me as an individual and not just one of your crew.
- Be honest with me so I can trust you and your word. Keep me updated on our company, its plans and its long-term strategy.
- Speak up with the company if you think I have a good case – even if it’s unpopular with senior management.
- Respect my time – don’t ask me to cancel my plans at the last minute unless absolutely necessary.
- Help me to grow professionally by suggesting reading material, DVDs, sending me to training seminars, etc.
- Give me a chance to grow by allowing me to fail every once in a while – and learn from the experience.
- Try to see the world through my eyes.
- If we visit the account together, don’t relegate me to a supporting role. Show the client your trust in me by allowing me to run the show.
Sales manager, I know that none of us are perfect and you won’t always be able to do all of this, but I’m content with a genuine effort.
Article by Tim Scholze
Thanks to Tim Scholze | #open #letter #sales #manager
