Sharing stories of leading teams and driving results helps you stand out in the competitive market for leadership positions.
Landing a sales leadership role can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You’re not alone if you’ve noticed opportunities seem scarce and often hidden. It’s frustrating—especially when you know you have the skills and experience to lead a team.
Don’t worry—there are ways to get these elusive roles and make yourself stand out.
Many talented sales professionals feel stuck trying to move into leadership. With fewer openings and many unadvertised roles, it can feel like the deck is stacked. Here are a few innovative strategies that can make all the difference in landing that coveted leadership position:
Start with executive search firms. A smart first step is reaching out to executive search firms. These firms specialize in filling high-level roles and often know about openings before they’re publicly listed. Connect with several firms to broaden your reach. Building these relationships takes time but can lead to powerful connections that open doors.
Connect with target companies. Think about where you’d love to work. Start connecting on LinkedIn with people in those companies—HR leaders, account executives, even the Chief Revenue Officer or COO. Send connection requests, and don’t be shy. They’re more likely to accept when you’re linked to their team members. This visibility can put you on their radar for future opportunities.
“You have the power to shape your career path—don’t wait for opportunities; create them!”
Showcase your unique value. When you can talk to someone in a target company, be ready to highlight what sets you apart. Think beyond listing qualifications. Tell a story. Share:
- The size and structure of sales teams you’ve led.
- Types of customers and industries you’ve worked with.
- Key accomplishments that prove your impact.
Embrace the challenge. Moving from individual contributor to sales leader is a challenging and exciting growth opportunity. You’re stepping up to inspire others and drive results. This shift requires a different mindset, one that’s about guiding others through change and growth. Share stories of resilience and innovation; these are qualities hiring managers seek in leaders.
Your future in sales leadership is bright. Start today by updating your LinkedIn profile, contacting connections, and attending networking events. Each step moves you closer to a leadership role that aligns with your vision. For personalized guidance or tips, contact me at +1 (703) 356-2190 or brock@cmicareers.com. Let’s unlock those opportunities together.