Sales Managers

O*NET 11-2022.00 · SOC 11-2022

Projected Growth
+5%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$148k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
29k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

What You'd Actually Do

  • Set sales targets and develop territory strategies
  • Coach, mentor, and manage sales team members
  • Build and maintain key client relationships
  • Analyze pipeline data and forecast revenue
  • Design incentive programs and sales playbooks

Education & How to Get In

🎯
Job Zone 4
Considerable preparation needed (bachelor's degree)

A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Sales Managers roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Sales Managers? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
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Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
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Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
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LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Leadership — offices, client meetings, or hybrid

Work Style

Collaborative — frequent interaction with teams, clients, or patients

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Sales Managers involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningSet sales targets and develop territory strategies
MiddayCoach, mentor, and manage sales team members
AfternoonBuild and maintain key client relationships

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Enterprising (Persuaders)7.0
Conventional (Organizers)5.5
Social (Helpers)3.4
Investigative (Thinkers)1.7
Realistic (Doers)1.5
Artistic (Creators)1.4

Who Thrives as Sales Manager?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ESTJThe ExecutiveESFJThe ProviderENTJThe CommanderENFJThe Mentor

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Sales Managers Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

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Is Sales Managers right for you?

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