Sales Managers train, direct, and supervise their sales staff. They coordinate the operation of their sales department by establishing territories, goals, and quotas for their sales workers. Reviewing market analyses helps them to determine customer needs, sales volume potential, and pricing schedules that will meet company goals.

The specific duties of sales managers vary from company to company. In general sales managers hire, train, and are responsible for the sales workers. In some large companies specialized sales training managers perform these duties. In all companies sales managers assign sales territories, or geographic regions, to selling personnel. They also evaluate the performance of the sales workers. Sales managers represent their companies at trade association conventions and meetings to promote their products. Some monitor customer preferences and direct and supervise product research and development. They may also be in charge of recommending or approving budgets for product research and development.

The size of the company dictates the scope and responsibility of the Sales Manager's job. Small companies may have only one sales manager, while some very large corporations employ managers to direct each level of the sales operation. A large company may employ a general sales manager, home office and overseas sales managers, and regional sales managers.

A wide range of educational backgrounds is suitable for entry into sales managerial jobs, but many employers prefer those with experience in related occupations. For marketing, sales, and promotions management positions, some employers prefer a bachelor's or master's degree in business administration with an emphasis on marketing. Courses in business law, management, economics, accounting, finance, mathematics, and statistics are advantageous. Additionally, the completion of an internship while the candidate is in school is highly recommended. In highly technical industries, such as computer and electronics manufacturing, a bachelor's degree in engineering or science, combined with a master's degree in business administration, is preferred.

Salaries for Sales Managers can range between $65k - $150k+.

**Annual earnings are determined by a variety of factors including field, title, place of employment, level of education, experience and geography.**

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