Picture this: You’ve reached a point in your business where it’s time to bring on a sales manager. Jack Daly himself would be right here, telling you that’s the move to make – the sales manager is the cornerstone for building your sales dream team. But hold up, folks. I get it – hiring a sales manager isn’t exactly a pocket change decision, especially for small businesses. And let’s be real, they’ve got to hire a team too.
So guess what? You might just be the de facto sales manager for a little while. And guess what else? You don’t have to be perfect at it. Jack’s words are probably echoing in your head: “Don’t let perfection paralyze you.”
Mistakes are part of the game, and boy, will you make them. The key is to embrace the learning curve and move forward. But, when you’re ready to pass that sales manager torch, let’s chat about what comes next. Buckle up, because this is where the rubber meets the road.
When do you know it’s time to say goodbye?
Ah, yes, the million-dollar query that keeps us all awake at night. But here’s a tip: the fact that you’re asking it is a red flag in itself. If you’re seeking permission to pull the plug, well, deep down you already know. It’s like asking if you should finish that last piece of chocolate cake – you’re looking for an excuse.
1. No Improvement
So, when does that alarm bell ring? When hope for improvement is as elusive as a unicorn, and you’re caught in a loop of training and trying that seems to lead nowhere. It’s a sign – a neon sign – that it’s time to part ways. It’s not just about reaching quotas, though. You’re steering clear of the ethical hazards, right? Anyone caught lying, stealing, or behaving in a way that would make your grandma cringe? Yep, show ’em the door.
2. Not Hitting Quotas
But wait, there’s more! If the person is coasting on mediocre performance but not dragging your ship into an iceberg, you might still keep them aboard. Remember, not everyone is a rock star, and sometimes good old consistency gets the job done. And when it’s time to drop the hammer? Well, if someone’s lacking the gusto to hit quotas and isn’t putting in the hustle to show they’re at least trying – that’s your signal.
3. Bad Attitude
Now, let’s talk about attitude – the mood and tone of your sales ship. Negative vibes? Like that carton of milk you forgot at the back of the fridge, it’s not going to turn fresh again. A bad attitude spreads faster than wildfire in a drought, and trust me, I’ve seen enough to know it’s a one-way street to a team meltdown.
4. Disruptive And Disrespectful
Ah, the star players – those magnificent beings that can also wreak havoc on your team dynamics. It’s not just about the sales folks; this applies across the board. Sometimes, stars think they’re invincible and treat everyone like their personal serfs. Protect your team’s harmony, my friends.
5. Not Coachable
Lastly, the coachability factor. The best of the best are the ones who can take feedback and run with it. But if you’re met with resentment, rebellion, or just plain old stubbornness, it’s like trying to plant a garden on a concrete slab. It’s just not going to work out.
So there you have it, a whirlwind tour of the sales manager’s handbook, in a style I hope Jack Daly would approve of. The key takeaways? Embrace your imperfections, know when it’s time to part ways, and build a team that shines brighter together.
