New research has found that 40 per cent of sales managers fail within their first year in the job because they lack the right skills.
In a bid to tackle this problem Metamorphose International, which conducted the survey, spoke to hundreds of employers to identify the key attributes they look for in a sales manager, Online Recruitment reports.
Communication came at the top of this list and those looking for a job in the profession were advised to always be clear and concise.
Next came leadership skills, which managing director of the firm Roy Bowles said is important because "a great sales manager guides the sales team to success when necessary, but also knows when to step back and let the team gain their own momentum".
Also in the top five were integrity, being inspirational and having a willingness to develop.
Firms recruit sales managers to ensure the team functions effectively and that everyone meets their sales targets each month.
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