Sales Team Manager in Illinois Career Overview

As a Sales Team Manager, you play a key role in driving the success of your organization through effective sales strategies and team leadership. Your responsibilities include overseeing a sales team, setting sales goals, and developing performance strategies to target revenue growth and market expansion.

Here are some key aspects of the Sales Team Manager role:

  • Leadership and Development: You guide and motivate your team to enhance their performance and achieve sales objectives. This involves conducting training sessions, offering constructive feedback, and fostering an environment of continuous improvement.

  • Sales Strategy Implementation: You are responsible for designing and executing sales strategies that align with the company's goals. Your insights and decisions directly impact the team’s effectiveness in reaching target markets.

  • Performance Monitoring: You regularly track and analyze sales metrics to evaluate team performance. This data-driven approach informs your strategies and helps identify areas for improvement or adjustment.

  • Client Relations: Building and maintaining relationships with key clients is a primary function. You facilitate communication between the sales team and customers to ensure satisfaction and address any concerns that may arise.

  • Collaboration with Other Departments: You work closely with marketing, product development, and customer service teams to ensure a unified approach to market demands and customer needs.

  • Market Research: Staying informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and customer preferences is essential. Your ability to adapt to changes in the market landscape enhances your team’s competitive edge.

Overall, the role of a Sales Team Manager is integral to the operational success of an organization, as you not only drive sales but also nurture talent and contribute to a positive company culture. Your leadership directly influences the dynamics of the sales team and the broader business objectives.

Sales Team Manager Salary in Illinois

Annual Median: $74,170
Hourly Median: $35.66

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Sales Team Manager in Illinois

To become a Sales Team Manager, you typically need a combination of relevant education and training. Here are some specific college degree programs that can help you prepare for this role:

  • Business Administration and Management
    This program provides a broad understanding of business principles, including management practices, decision-making processes, and organizational behavior, which are essential in leading a sales team.

  • Business and Personal Financial Services Marketing Operations
    This program focuses on marketing strategies related to financial services, equipping you with knowledge about customer relationships and market analysis that can be beneficial in managing sales activities.

  • Business and Innovation Entrepreneurship Teacher Education
    This degree emphasizes innovative business strategies and entrepreneurship, preparing you to cultivate a dynamic sales environment and inspire your team.

  • Selling Skills and Sales Operations
    A degree in this area offers specialized training in sales techniques, customer interaction, and operational management, directly applicable to the responsibilities of a Sales Team Manager.

  • Marketing Management
    This program focuses on strategies for effective marketing and brand management, which are crucial for driving sales performance and managing a sales force.

In addition to a formal degree, gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in sales and management can further enhance your qualifications.

Best Schools to become a Sales Team Manager in Illinois 2024

#1Maricopa County

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891
#2Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#3Salt Lake County

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935
#4El Paso County

Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

In-State Tuition:$12,036
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,036
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:24,808
#5Maricopa County

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816
#6Lynchburg City

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
Sales Team Manager Job Description:
  • Directly supervise and coordinate activities of sales workers other than retail sales workers.
  • May perform duties such as budgeting, accounting, and personnel work, in addition to supervisory duties.

Sales Team Manager Required Skills and Competencies in Illinois

  • Leadership Ability: You must inspire and guide your sales team, fostering a motivating environment that encourages high performance and collaboration.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. You need to convey strategies, expectations, and feedback clearly, while also being an active listener to your team's concerns.

  • Strategic Thinking: You should be able to analyze market trends, understand customer needs, and develop effective sales strategies that align with organizational goals.

  • Negotiation Skills: Proficiency in negotiation is key to finalizing deals and maintaining relationships with clients. You must advocate effectively for both your team and the organization.

  • Analytical Skills: Being adept at interpreting sales data and metrics allows you to assess performance accurately and make informed decisions for improvement.

  • Time Management: You need to prioritize tasks effectively, managing your time and your team's time efficiently to meet sales targets and deadlines.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify challenges within the sales process and devise creative solutions is essential for overcoming obstacles and driving results.

  • Coaching and Development: You should have the capacity to mentor and train team members, helping them improve their skills and reach their professional goals.

  • Customer-Centric Approach: Understanding the importance of customer relationships and being able to foster those relationships is vital for long-term success.

  • Adaptability: The sales landscape can change rapidly; being flexible and open to change will help you navigate new challenges and opportunities as they arise.

  • Tech Savviness: Familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) systems and other sales tools is necessary for tracking performance and maintaining organization within your team.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport and trust with both your team members and clients is key to establishing a strong and cohesive working relationship.

  • Motivation and Drive: A strong personal drive to achieve goals, combined with the ability to motivate your team, will help sustain high levels of productivity and morale.

Job Duties for Sales Team Managers

  • Direct and supervise employees engaged in sales, inventory-taking, reconciling cash receipts, or performing specific services.

  • Monitor sales staff performance to ensure that goals are met.

  • Provide staff with assistance in performing difficult or complicated duties.

Technologies and Skills Used by Sales Team Managers

Customer relationship management CRM software

  • Oracle Eloqua
  • Salesforce software

Video conferencing software

  • Cisco Webex
  • Fuze cloud communications and collaboration software

Video creation and editing software

  • YouTube

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions
  • Understanding people's reactions

Job Market and Opportunities for Sales Team Manager in Illinois

The job market for Sales Team Managers in Illinois has demonstrated promising demand and growth potential, driven largely by several key factors:

  • Increasing Demand: Many businesses are prioritizing sales management as they recognize the importance of effective leadership in achieving sales targets and nurturing team talent. As companies strive to enhance their market presence, experienced Sales Team Managers are increasingly sought after to guide their sales teams.

  • Industry Growth: Various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, are experiencing growth in Illinois. These industries often require skilled sales teams to drive revenue and market expansion, creating a favorable environment for Sales Team Managers.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Chicago: As the largest city in Illinois, Chicago remains a major hub for commerce and industry. The diversity of businesses within the metropolitan area means a high concentration of opportunities for Sales Team Managers across various sectors.
    • Aurora: This city has witnessed significant economic development, attracting companies that seek to establish or expand their operations. The growing business landscape offers numerous prospects for sales leadership.
    • Rockford: Known for its manufacturing and healthcare industries, Rockford presents opportunities for Sales Team Managers looking to work in sectors that require strong sales strategies and team oversight.
    • Peoria: With a strong presence in manufacturing and agriculture, Peoria offers unique options for Sales Team Managers, particularly in sectors that value robust sales capabilities.

  • Networking and Professional Development: Numerous industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities in Illinois contribute to the growth potential for Sales Team Managers. Engaging in these events can lead to job opportunities and career advancement.

  • Remote Work Trends: The rise of remote work has created additional flexibility and opportunities for Sales Team Managers. Many employers are now open to hiring talent regardless of geographical location, allowing you to tap into a broader job market.

In conclusion, the job market for Sales Team Managers in Illinois is characterized by robust demand, promising growth, and strategic geographical hotspots. The evolving landscape emphasizes the importance of sales leadership in driving business success, making it a favorable time to pursue opportunities in this field.

Top Related Careers to Sales Team Manager 2024

Non-Retail Sales Coordinator
Inside Sales Supervisor
Client Relations Supervisor
B2B Sales Supervisor

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Sales Team Manager in Illinois

  • Sales Management Association
    An organization dedicated to sales management best practices, providing research, tools, and networking opportunities.
    Sales Management Association

  • American Association of Inside Sales Professionals (AA-ISP)
    A professional association focused on the advancement of inside sales practices, including leadership resources.
    AA-ISP

  • Sales Training Resources from HubSpot
    HubSpot offers a variety of articles, webinars, and courses tailored for sales professionals, including management techniques.
    HubSpot Sales Training

  • LinkedIn Learning: Sales Management Courses
    A platform offering various courses focused on sales management, team-building, strategy, and measurement.
    LinkedIn Learning

  • National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP)
    This organization provides certifications, training, and resources for sales professionals aimed at improving sales techniques and managerial skills.
    NASP

  • Sales Hacker
    An online resource hub featuring articles, podcasts, and events focusing on innovative sales strategies and leadership.
    Sales Hacker

  • The Sales Enablement Society
    An organization focused on the alignment of sales and marketing, providing resources, research, and community networking.
    Sales Enablement Society

  • Books on Sales Management

    • "The New Manager's Handbook: 24 Lessons for Success in Your First Management Job" by Matthew Kelly
    • "Sales Leadership: The Essential Leadership Framework to Coach to Win" by Mike Weinberg
    • "The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation" by Matthew Dixon and Brent Adamson

  • Webinars & Workshops
    Check out organizations such as the American Management Association and Dale Carnegie for ongoing workshops and webinars on sales management skills.
    American Management Association
    Dale Carnegie

  • Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
    Provides resources and guidance for small business owners, including sales strategy and management.
    Illinois SBDC

  • Networking Groups on Meetup
    Search for local sales management or business networking groups in your area to connect with other professionals.
    Meetup

These resources will help you deepen your knowledge and hone your skills as a Sales Team Manager, guiding your professional journey and offering valuable insights into leadership and sales strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sales Team Manager in Illinois

  • What are the primary responsibilities of a Sales Team Manager?
    As a Sales Team Manager, you are responsible for overseeing the sales team’s performance, setting sales goals, developing training programs, and ensuring team members have the resources needed to succeed. You will also analyze market trends and create strategies to increase sales.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Sales Team Manager?
    Generally, a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field is preferred. Extensive experience in sales is critical, often requiring 5-10 years of experience in progressively responsible roles. Leadership experience is also valuable.

  • What skills are essential for a successful Sales Team Manager?
    Key skills include strong leadership and communication abilities, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and proficiency in data analysis. Additionally, a good understanding of the sales process and customer relationship management (CRM) software is beneficial.

  • What is the typical salary range for a Sales Team Manager in Illinois?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, industry, and location, but as of 2023, the salary for Sales Team Managers in Illinois typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, excluding bonuses and commissions.

  • What are the career advancement opportunities for a Sales Team Manager?
    You may advance to higher management positions such as Director of Sales or VP of Sales. Networking, continuing education, and obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your career prospects.

  • How can I improve my chances of being hired as a Sales Team Manager?
    To improve your chances, build a robust sales background with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets. Enhance your management skills through leadership training and gain experience in mentoring and developing sales staff.

  • What tools or software do Sales Team Managers commonly use?
    Sales Team Managers often utilize CRM software (like Salesforce or HubSpot), sales analytics tools, and communication platforms (such as Slack or Microsoft Teams) to manage their teams and track sales performance.

  • Is it essential to have industry-specific knowledge to become a Sales Team Manager?
    While it is beneficial to have industry-specific knowledge, especially in technical sales or specialized markets, many skills are transferable. Your ability to understand sales dynamics and lead a team can outweigh the need for deep industry expertise.

  • How often should a Sales Team Manager provide feedback to their team?
    Regular feedback is important. Aim for ongoing, informal feedback during daily interactions, supplemented by scheduled performance reviews—typically on a quarterly or biannual basis.

  • What challenges do Sales Team Managers typically face?
    Common challenges include meeting sales quotas, managing team dynamics, resolving conflicts, adapting to market changes, and balancing team strengths and weaknesses. Effective communication and a strong strategy can help address these challenges.