Sales Managers In LA Compete For Six-Figure Paychecks
Although they work long hours and the job can be exceedingly stressful, successful sales managers are those that work the hardest at leading organizations. Reaching the apex of this business discipline entails more than an expert ability to sell a product. The role involves strategic planning, interpreting data, in addition to devising and implementing an effective sales plan to help a company flourish and prosper. At the end of the year, a sales manager's toil can bring rewarding results. The annual median salary is $100,000, a 12-percent boost in the employment rate by 2020 is projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Experts say the fastest growing industries in Los Angeles currently seeking industrious sales managers include technology, medical, pharmaceutical and import/export.
"These are areas which have both high growth and are foundational industries in LA of which we have competitive advantages," said Van Anderson, director of corporate education and custom programs at UCLA Extension. "Sales management is an ideal career path to pursue due the job's flexibility, freedom and massive market opportunities with international integration."
What type of sales manager is landing the best job in LA?
"At this time, companies are seeking sales managers that are strategic, creative, competitive and analytical. These entrepreneurial candidates must also be able to communicate well and come to the interview table with project management skills."
What are you doing to help sales managers land high-paying jobs?
"UCLA Extension currently offers classes that utilize new customer relationship management tools and advanced technology. Sales managers also learn to negotiate, write, build relationships and think outside the box. We also offer boot camps to familiarize potential sales managers with an industry prior to working in it."
What should all sales managers know?
"Effective sales managers should know that success in sales is determinant on knowing your product, your market and yourself. The finance, management and leadership aspects round out the experience to become someone who takes ownership in everything you do. You must operate as if you are running your own business and hold on to that same level of determination and drive."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
