Can you describe what do you do on a day-to-day basis?
I come into work, settle in, and check my orders from yesterday to make sure there are no holds and everything is all set. Then I call the customers scheduled on my calendar to make sure they get what they need. After my calendar is cleared, I begin prospecting for potential new customers. While calling into customers and prospects, I also reply to emails regarding quotes/orders.
How did you become an Account Manager? What attracted you to this job?
I came from a background of construction jobs and just couldn’t do the physical labor and hours anymore. When a friend suggested Connection, I looked into it and gave it a shot. I attended a job fair and immediately knew this was the right fit. I couldn’t see myself living comfortably within five years of my old career, and it wasn’t worth the pay to work like that. At Connection, there are so many opportunities to lead you to the road of success, and that’s what attracted me. I knew if I succeeded in this role, then I could live the life I wanted to.
What are the most challenging aspects of your job?
Time management is easily one of the most challenging things I’ve encountered at this job. At first it was an adjustment and I got used to it, but then when you start tacking on orders, quotes, emails, customer calls, conference calls, training, and still trying to hit your dials and talk time while making time for prospecting, it isn’t easy. You just have to remember that it’s worth it.
What do you feel is the key skill/attribute needed to succeed in your role?
Being personable and using your resources. Being able to connect with your customer is what separates us from other vendors. Building the relationship with them shows you care what they’re looking for and shows them that we’re not just here to make money off of them. Using your resources is key as well because there are so many things Connection has to offer, we can’t be expected to know them all inside and out.
What would your advice for newcomers be?
Be consistent and patient. This job is challenging, mentally and physically. It can wear on you, but you need to just keep your head up and move forward. Don’t take anything to heart, and just stay positive because there will be days where you feel like you can’t do it. But that’s when you just pick up the phone and make the next call.
What would you do if you weren’t an Account Manager?
I’d probably work in a support role. Working sales, we receive inbound calls from time to time, and I enjoy picking them up to help whoever is on the other end. Maybe they’re trying to track an order or place an order, and the satisfaction of leaving them happy and helping them get what they need is a reward in itself.
What’s the best part about working at Connection?
The best part about Connection is that we’re not just a company, we’re a family. Everyone is here to help you and watch you succeed. The number of resources, specialists, and experts given to us is substantial, and the teamwork shown from co-workers and managers is the reason why Connection is one of the best. Everyone wants to see you grow.
One thought on “Inside the Life of a Connection Account Manager”
Terese Olson is my favorite part about ordering high powered and long lasting IT equipment. She and her team are responsive and deliberate and always take care of us. Connection is badass and I don’t care about my language 😉
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