An open letter to my sales manager

eladmin August 6, 2022 General Leave a comment 731 Views

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.