Account Managers manage client accounts. They do anything from contacting and updating the client, to following up with internal teams on the status of their accounts or orders. In some cases they gather information and leads, generated from the sales team and attempt to expand the company’s client base.

They earn very good salaries and these are often dictated by the company size, their performance, working experience or location. Account Managers get bonuses, commissions, insurance, pension and health care benefits.

An Account Manager usually performs many of the following tasks:

• Following health and safety requirements
• Attending training sessions and workshops
• Meeting customers
• Monitoring competitor activities
• Following up with clients
• Planning marketing activities
• Forecasting industry demands

Expertise in the following areas is an asset:

• Customer service
• Managing projects that involve multitasking
• Being methodical and thorough with good ability to prioritize tasks
• Communication
• Writing reports in a proffesional manner
• Being collaborative
• Being confident, reliable and approachable
• Team work
• Organization and planning

A Bachelors Degree is essential in attaining an Account Manager position. Business Administration, Management, Marketing, Finance, Economics and Accounting degrees are very helpful. Candidates with MBAs or other Masters Degrees have an advantage as well.