Account manager
Account managers act as liaisons between clients and the organization, ensuring client satisfaction and retention. They are responsible for managing client accounts, identifying growth opportunities, and providing exceptional customer service.
If you are seeking to hire an account manager, this article will provide you with valuable information to navigate this role effectively.
In this article, we will dive deeper into the duties and responsibilities of an account manager.
What is an account manager?
An account manager serves as a liaison between the clients and the organization.
Account managers are responsible for building and maintaining client relationships to ensure client satisfaction and retention.
They act as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing their needs, answering their queries, and helping them achieve their objectives.
Duties of an account manager
An account manager’s role encompasses various responsibilities aimed at managing clients of a firm. Some of them may include:
Building strong client relationships
Account managers develop a deep understanding of clients’ businesses, their goals, and challenges. They regularly communicate with clients to ensure their needs are met.
Managing client accounts
Account managers are tasked to oversee all aspects of client accounts. This includes negotiating contracts, providing solutions, and handling complaints or issues.
Identifying opportunities for growth
They are also experts in identifying upselling and cross-selling opportunities within existing client accounts. Most account managers collaborate with the sales team to explore new business opportunities.
Collaborating with internal teams
Account managers act as a bridge between clients and internal departments such as marketing, sales, and operations.
Monitoring account performance
Most importantly, account managers track key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the success of account management strategies.
Skills and requirements needed in an account manager
An account manager possesses various skills and requirements for them to be successful. This includes the following:
Relationship-building abilities
An account manager should possess strong interpersonal skills to develop and foster long-lasting relationships with clients. This involves being empathetic, listening attentively, and understanding clients’ goals.
Problem-solving skills
Account managers must be able to identify and resolve client issues promptly and effectively. They use strong problem-solving and negotiation skills to find mutually beneficial solutions.
Time management
Managing multiple client accounts requires exceptional organization and time management skills. Prioritizing tasks, meeting deadlines, and maintaining accurate records are crucial for success.
Industry knowledge
It is advantageous for them to be well-versed in the industry in which their clients operate. Understanding their industry trends and competitive landscape helps them provide valuable insights and tailor their strategies accordingly.
Sales and business acumen
Possessing a solid understanding of sales processes, business strategies, and revenue generation is beneficial for identifying opportunities and driving growth within client accounts.
Where to hire an account manager?
Here are some places where you can find exceptional account managers for your organization:
1. Online job sites
- Glassdoor. Glassdoor is a popular job site that offers comprehensive company reviews and a diverse pool of candidates looking for organizations to connect with.
- ZipRecruiter. ZipRecruiter is one of the leading online job portals, providing access to a wide range of candidates across various industries and skill levels.
- Talent.com. Talent.com is an expansive platform offering a vast array of job opportunities, including positions for account managers, and insights about various roles.
2. Freelance sites
- PeoplePerHour. PeoplePerHour is an online marketplace connecting businesses with freelance professionals, including experienced account managers, which can be hired on an hourly work basis.
- Fiverr. Fiverr is a platform where freelancers offer their services on a short-term or long-term basis, providing opportunities to find skilled account managers.
- Guru. Guru is an online freelance marketplace where you can find account managers with specialized skills and industry expertise.
3. Social media sites
- LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a professional networking platform ideal for finding and connecting with talented account managers. Utilize LinkedIn’s extensive search options and professional groups to narrow down your options.
- Facebook. Join relevant professional groups on Facebook and post job listings to attract potential account manager candidates.
Salary comparison for an account manager
According to data from Talent.com, the average salary for an account manager is around $60,000 per year. In the Philippines, meanwhile, an account manager earns an average of $7,556 per year.
The lower labor costs offshore as compared to the US is one of the reasons firms prefer to delegate this service to top outsourcing destinations.
Below is a quick comparison between the salaries in the two countries.
| Junior | Mid | Senior | |
| The Philippines | $5,862 | $7,556 | $12,790 |
| USA | $45,000 | $60,000 | $100,000 |
Tip: Get accurate estimates of salaries and expenses with our Outsource Calculator.
On-site vs. Remote setup for an account manager
The setup for an account manager can vary depending on the company’s policies and requirements. Both setups have their advantages and considerations.
On-site account managers benefit from direct in-person collaboration with colleagues, easy access to resources, and stronger team dynamics.
Remote account managers, on the other hand, enjoy increased flexibility, reduced commuting time, and the ability to work from any location.
Ultimately, the choice between on-site and remote work models depends on the specific needs and preferences of the company, the account manager, and the clients involved.
Account manager job description template
The role of an account manager is critical to maintaining strong client relationships and driving business growth.
With the right skills, experience, and qualifications, you can succeed as an account manager and contribute to the success of your clients and your organization.
Feel free to use this job description template to get started. Additionally, check out these interview questions to serve as your guide in screening applicants.
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