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This question is about account manager.
How do I get to become an account manager?
To become an account manager requires at least a high school diploma, certifications, and on-the-job training.
Educational Requirements
Degree requirements for account managers vary depending on the field, while experience in your industry is what counts to advance as an account manager.
Many account managers have bachelor's degrees in business administration with a minor in marketing. In fact, nearly 70% of account managers hold a bachelor's degree, and 5% have an associate's degree.
Conversely, almost 20% of account managers have just a high school diploma. So, educational credentials play an important role in getting a position as an account manager, but it is not always required.
There are many online certifications and account management programs to choose from for those aspiring to become account managers. There are many advantages for potential account managers to earn certifications related to account management.
Having certifications provides an account manager with a greater theoretical insight into the main elements of account management and tools to improve your business skills. Certifications can also advance an account manager's career by enabling them to be trusted with key accounts.
Common Qualifications for Account Managers:
Certified Sales Professional (CSP) (highly recommend)
Certified Management Accountant (CMA) (highly recommend)
Additional Specialization certifications depending on what industry you are interested in working for:
Property Casualty License
Driver's License
Life Insurance License
Class E
Certified Scrum Master
Real Estate Broker
Guard Card
Certified Employee Benefit Specialist
Insurance Producer License
PMP
FINRA License
Pesticide Applicator's License
On-The-Job Experience
Many companies prefer candidates with some experience in lower-level sales or marketing roles. Previous jobs or internships that involve direct customer interaction can prepare a candidate for a successful career as an account manager.
On-the-job training opportunities can be obtained for similar lower-level roles, such as assistant account manager or junior account executive. Many companies will train future account managers in the most critical job aspects, like ensuring existing customers are satisfied and finding new clients.
Once you have the educational background and job experience, the next step is to get an entry-level position as an account manager.
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