How to Become an Account Executive
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of an Account Executive
What does an Account Executive do?
The Account Executive pursues relationships with potential new accounts and seeks business expansion opportunities with current clients. Develops relationships with major clients in order to increase revenue. Being an Account Executive visits client locations periodically to ensure client satisfaction and promote ongoing contract renewal. Has detailed knowledge of products and services being offered and ensures that products and services consistently meet client needs. In addition, Account Executive provides sales quotations and responds to requests for proposals. Typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Being an Account Executive work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Working as an Account Executive typically requires 4-7 years of related experience.
Advertising account executives usually work for advertising agencies, but they sometimes work in advertising departments in large companies.
The advertising account executive acts as the liaison between the client and the agency.
After the plan and campaign are developed, the advertising account executive must then sell the idea to the client.
Although account executives generally are not part of the creative team — in other words, they do not write the campaign itself — they do work with the creative team to communicate the client's needs.
Executives must work with clients and pitch ideas, so strong interpersonal skills are also required, along with a professional appearance and demeanor.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become an Account Executive
Best tips for those who want to become an Account Executive
Here are some tips to become an Account Executive.
Include the Education and Certificates sections.
Visit bank websites and fill up the online application form.
Business networking is must—you can visit local or state chapters of mortgage banking or broker associations that can lead to opportunities in this field.
Experience in marketing and sales is must for this field.
Relevant Account Executive Experience.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Account Executive
Best colleges and universities for Account Executive
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be an Account Executive
Is being an Account Executive Worth it?
Must have a minimum 4-5 years of demonstrated agency experience managing a roster of lifestyle client accounts.
Experience working on client accounts in the lifestyle industry (food/beverage, hospitality, fashion/retail, tourism, health & wellness, real estate).
Generate strategic communication plans for selected accounts with an eye to developing smart, fresh and buzz-worthy ideas.
Oversee workflow, deadlines, budgets, and resources (both team and dollars) for selected accounts.
Minimum three years in consumer and corporate sector with current knowledge of lifestyle brands and key players including executive and brand profile expertise.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being an Account Executive
What skills do you need to be an Account Executive?
Management often looks to professional level roles for execution on their visions and goals, as such some specific skills are required. The workload of this role requires knowledge of: Account Management, Customer Acquisition, Customer Retention, Customer Satisfaction, Quoting, Relationship Development, Sales Strategy. If you highlight these skills during your interview process, you will be more likely to land the job!
Directed and delivered branch-wide account executive training for technical product knowledge, systems training, and sales effectiveness training.
Trained accounts in inventory management, product knowledge and sell through techniques with reward incentives for stylists.
Developed new business accounts by applying product knowledge, persistent call activity and aggressive closing skills.
Implemented a new process for training account managers, improving product knowledge and sales strategy.
If you have relevant sales experience from past jobs, you'll want to make sure your account executive resume highlights that experience.
Step 6: View average salary for Account Executive
How much does an Account Executive make?
The average salary range for an Account Executive is from $93,313 to $127,633. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Account Executive jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Account Executive jobs, and apply.
Looking for Account Executive jobs?
Here are some Account Executive jobs in the United States.