For the average business, it’s easy to overlook the role of an account executive. After all, you probably have an accountant who files your taxes and a receptionist who greets visitors. An assistant or secretary is probably also available to take calls, schedule appointments, and perform other small administrative tasks. If you don’t work in an office, maybe you don’t need an account executive.
But that doesn't mean that no one on your team plays this role. In fact, if you own a business or are thinking about starting one, hiring an account executive might be very beneficial for your organization. An account executive is not the same as an accountant or secretary. These professionals play a key role within most businesses because they are responsible for selling their company’s services directly to clients with the goal of generating recurring revenue streams.
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| What Is an Account Executive |
What Does an Account Executive Do?
One of the first things to understand about the job of an account executive is that it is not a job for everyone. You might be wondering what an account executive does, but the truth is that everyone is different and has different strengths and talents. An account executive is responsible for identifying and reaching out to prospective clients and building lasting relationships. If sales is your thing, then account executive is a role that might fit you perfectly. An account executive might call on potential customers and try to sell them on your product or service. Or, they might go to a trade show to meet potential clients and get your product in front of many people at once.
Do You Need an Account Executive?
An account executive is responsible for generating revenue for your business. If you’re not generating revenue, you’re actually losing money. Depending on the type of business you have, hiring an account executive might be a good idea. An account executive is a great person to have on your team if you find yourself struggling to close deals. They’ll know how to talk to clients and understand their needs and pain points. An account executive is also a good person to have on your team if you’re not comfortable selling your product or service directly to clients. If you’re shy, an account executive can do most of the talking for you.
3 Things to Look for When Hiring an Account Executive
Before you hire someone as an account executive, you’ll want to make sure that they are a good fit for your business. Here are a few things you should look for when hiring an account executive for your business.
- Sales experience - Sales experience is essential for an account executive. You want an account executive who knows how to sell your product or service and make sure that your customers get what they want from your business.
- Sales track record - You want to make sure that the person you hire as an account executive has experience in generating recurring revenue for their organization. If they have a proven track record, you know that they are capable of selling your product or service.
- Fit within your organization - You want to make sure that the person you hire as an account executive is a good fit within your organization. Is the person outgoing? Do they have good people skills? Are they a good cultural fit for your business?
2 Signs That Show You Definitely Need an AE
If you’re still unsure whether you need to hire an account executive, you should look for signs that you probably need an account executive.
- If you find that your business is struggling to grow and make sales, then you might need an account executive. Businesses that struggle with growth generally fall into one of two categories. They either have a poor sales process that leads to few sales or they have a solution that no one actually needs. There are other signs as well that you might need an account executive.
- If you often find yourself accounting for your lack of sales by blaming your lack of marketing dollars or your lack of online presence, then you probably need an account executive.
2 Signs That Show You Should Think About Hiring an Account Executive
On the other hand, if you find that your sales are growing, you’re getting new clients to purchase your product or service. You might feel like you don’t need an account executive. However, hiring an account executive can make all the difference between a business that grows slowly, and a business that truly takes off.
- An account executive can help you reach potential clients in new places and expand your client base. They have the experience and know-how to generate sales for your business and make sure that you have as many customers as possible.
- An account executive can help you achieve your goals and make sure that your business continues to grow.
To Sum Up
If you run a business, it’s almost inevitable that you will eventually hire an account executive. This person can help you expand your client base and grow your business. So, if you aren’t sure whether you need an account executive, look for signs that you probably need one.