mpo

Sales Director

Career question

if this has already been asked I'd love to read the previous responses but I've been in B2B sales for 6 years now since graduating with my undergrad. I've been SMB the whole time and bounced around a bit until my current company where I've been for almost 3 years. Q4 last year I got promoted to management which I've wanted for a long time. question is: have I pigeon-holed myself to SMB leadership forever or could I move into management MM or ENT? just thinking about the current state of layoffs, etc and want to be ready to move if I need to.

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Kosta_Konfucius

Politicker

Sales Rep

I am not manager, but had Mid Market Sales Managers at my last two companies previously be Sales Managers in SMB.

I would assume its common to make that transition, at least from what I have scene

DungeonsNDemos

Big Shot

Rolling 20's all day

I imagine if a manager keeps their technical skills strong and knows their metrics well, there's no reason they couldn't move up unless it's a direct lack of experience.

Diablo

Politicker

Sr. AE

I don’t think you have pigeon-holed you self. It’s might not be the right time but I have seen SM grow from SmB to MM in my org.

fcmf

Valued Contributor

RSM

It's understandable that you might be concerned about the potential for layoffs and want to be prepared for the possibility of needing to look for a new job. However, it's important to remember that every company is different and has its own needs and preferences when it comes to hiring and promoting employees.In general, having experience in management in the SMB (small and medium-sized business) sector can be a valuable asset for any company, and it may not necessarily limit your opportunities for advancement. Many companies value strong leaders who are able to effectively manage teams and achieve results, regardless of the sector in which they have previously worked.That being said, it may be more challenging to transition into management roles at larger enterprises (MM or ENT) without previous experience in those sectors. In such cases, it could be helpful to highlight any transferable skills and experiences that you have that could be relevant to a larger organization. You might also consider seeking additional education or training to help broaden your skill set and make yourself a more attractive candidate for management roles at larger enterprises.

Lambda

Tycoon

Sales Consultant

Pigeon hole is the wrong word

Pigeon timing? Maybe

That said use the time to bolster your skills and become undeniable in the future when the opportunity or market is ripe for it

CuriousFox

WR Officer

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TennisandSales

Politicker

Head Of Sales

i dont think its impossible but it is not easy. the best bet would be to do it at your company.

If im hiring for management i want that person to have sold the deal size they will be managing.

now if you are in the SMB space and you KILL it as a manager, i think it would be easier for the current company to say "hey lets that person to ENT since its important and they do a good job"

SilkySlim

Executive

Senior Accounts Executive

It can be done, but pretty rare. If you are comfortable with it I would make a jump to an ENT AE then go for management.

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