What do you do if you want to explore various career paths in Account Management?

1 Identify your strengths and interests

The first step to exploring various career paths in account management is to identify your strengths and interests as a professional. What are the aspects of account management that you enjoy the most and excel at? What are the areas that you want to improve or learn more about? What are the types of clients, projects, and industries that you find most appealing and rewarding? By answering these questions, you can get a clearer picture of your personal and professional goals and preferences.

2 Research different account management roles

The next step to exploring various career paths in account management is to research different account management roles and how they vary across different sectors, organizations, and levels. For example, you can look into the differences between account executives, account directors, account strategists, account coordinators, and other account management positions. You can also compare how account management functions in different fields, such as advertising, marketing, sales, consulting, and technology. By doing this, you can gain a better understanding of the scope, expectations, and challenges of different account management roles and how they align with your strengths and interests.

3 Network with other account managers

The third step to exploring various career paths in account management is to network with other account managers who work in different roles, industries, and contexts. You can reach out to your existing contacts, join online or offline communities, attend events, or ask for informational interviews. By networking with other account managers, you can learn from their experiences, insights, and advice. You can also discover new opportunities, trends, and best practices in account management and how to prepare for them.

4 Seek feedback and mentorship

The fourth step to exploring various career paths in account management is to seek feedback and mentorship from your peers, managers, clients, or mentors. Feedback and mentorship can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, improve your performance and skills, and set realistic and achievable career goals. You can also get guidance and support from people who have been in your shoes or who have achieved what you aspire to. By seeking feedback and mentorship, you can enhance your professional development and confidence as an account manager.

5 Try new projects and challenges

The fifth step to exploring various career paths in account management is to try new projects and challenges that expose you to different aspects of account management. You can volunteer for new assignments, take on more responsibilities, or switch teams or accounts within your organization. You can also pursue external opportunities, such as freelance work, side hustles, or certifications. By trying new projects and challenges, you can test your skills and knowledge, expand your portfolio and resume, and discover new possibilities and passions in account management.

6 Evaluate and adjust your career plan

The final step to exploring various career paths in account management is to evaluate and adjust your career plan based on your exploration. You can review your achievements, learnings, and feedback and assess how they match your career goals and preferences. You can also identify the gaps, opportunities, and risks in your current and desired career path and how to address them. By evaluating and adjusting your career plan, you can make informed and strategic decisions about your future in account management.