How do industry standards enhance your account management credibility?

1 What are industry standards?

Industry standards are the established norms, guidelines and best practices that define the quality, performance and expectations of a specific sector, product or service. They are often developed by professional associations, regulatory bodies, trade groups or industry leaders, and they reflect the collective knowledge, experience and innovation of the industry. Industry standards can cover various aspects of account management, such as ethics, communication, reporting, project management, contract negotiation, customer service, risk management and more.

2 Why are industry standards important?

Industry standards are important for several reasons. First, they help you deliver consistent and high-quality service to your clients, which can increase their satisfaction, loyalty and retention. Second, they help you align your account management processes and goals with the industry best practices, which can improve your efficiency, effectiveness and performance. Third, they help you comply with the legal and regulatory requirements that apply to your industry, which can reduce your risks, liabilities and penalties. Fourth, they help you differentiate yourself from your competitors, who may not follow the same standards or have the same level of professionalism and expertise.

3 How do industry standards enhance your credibility?

Industry standards can be an effective way to enhance your credibility as an account manager, demonstrating your knowledge and skills in your field, establishing your reputation and authority, building trust and confidence with clients, and creating a competitive advantage. By following the industry standards, you can show that you are up to date with the latest trends, innovations and challenges, recognized and respected by peers, partners and stakeholders, committed to delivering value, quality and satisfaction, and different from other account managers who may not meet the same standards or expectations.

4 How do you follow industry standards?

Staying up to date with industry standards requires you to be aware, informed and proactive. Research and identify the standards that apply to your niche and market, and understand their purpose, scope and benefits. Obtain any certifications or memberships that demonstrate your adherence to the standards, and showcase them on your resume, portfolio, website and social media profiles. Regularly update your account management skills, knowledge and tools, and take advantage of any training or mentoring opportunities that can help you meet the industry standards. Implement and monitor the standards in your processes, procedures and policies, making sure they are aligned with clients' needs. Communicate with clients about the industry standards you follow, how they can benefit from them, and solicit their feedback for improvement.

5 How do you leverage industry standards?

Leveraging industry standards can create value, opportunities and results for your account management career and business. Highlight and promote your industry standards compliance and credentials in your marketing, sales and proposal materials as a selling point and differentiator. Showcase your industry standards achievements and successes in case studies, testimonials and reviews as a proof of quality and performance. Network and collaborate with other account managers, professionals and organizations that follow the same industry standards to source referrals, recommendations and support. Seek new clients, projects and markets that require or prefer account managers who follow the industry standards to expand scope and reach. Finally, evaluate and measure outcomes and impact based on the industry standards to demonstrate value and return on investment.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?