Companies with a dynamic portfolio in an agile field make the perfect working environment for sales staff, guaranteeing a diverse range of tasks and exciting new challenges. EBF is a prime case in point: it offers innovative and ever-changing technological solutions destined to play a key role in our future working lives. In sales, everything is centered around these solutions – which in turn means that each and every working day is different from the previous day. Not least because our customer portfolio goes from medium-sized businesses right up to DAX 30 companies, including both local and international firms across all sectors. This interview with Natalie Radic explains how the sales team tackle their day-to-day challenges.
So what does an Account or Key Account Manager do exactly?
Account management is all about marketing and presenting our products and services – whether we’re dealing with new clients or existing customers. A rich and varied working day is guaranteed, not least because of the wide range of places where we ply our trade. As Account Managers, sometimes we visit customers in their own offices, but we could just as well present our solutions in webinars, or even make new contacts at trade fairs or other events. We then guide these individuals through the whole process – from making contact in the first place, through drawing up an offer, to signing the contract. We usually do this by working closely with our colleagues in consulting and support. The sales team also work alongside the marketing team when launching new products and services to ensure that the necessary documents are available. And where would any self-respecting sales team be without facts and figures? Drawing up outcome surveys, forecasts, and reports is very much part of an Account Manager’s daily routine.
EBF also employs Key Account Managers who look after our major customers, making sure they have everything they could possibly need. Their goal is to maintain a long-term business relationship and become closely entwined with the customer’s fundamental business practices.
What made you choose this job over any other?
"I’ve always found sales to be an exciting place to work. My father also worked in sales and I always wanted to follow in his footsteps, even as a small child. So working in sales was a no-brainer for me really. I studied Organizational Sciences, majoring in IT, and ideally wanted to combine these two fields – which means that working as a Key Account Manager for EBF is the perfect job for me.“
Natalie
What’s the best thing about your work?
"The fact that I’m always on the go – there’s never a dull moment. Then there’s the fact that I’m really into mobile devices and working for EBF gives me the opportunity to access all the latest technology.“
Natalie
Why do you enjoy working for your current company?
"EBF operates in a dynamic and constantly changing environment. This keeps me on my toes and means I’m always learning new things and developing my skillset. Not only does EBF promote innovative technological solutions, it also allows its staff to use these systems and makes the latest technology available to staff within the company.”
Natalie
Why would you recommend EBF as an employer?
"EBF is a modern employer with great colleagues. It feels very much like a family. I love working as part of the team! Even the environment in which EBF operates is fascinating. And of course, EBF offers a great many benefits which make it a very attractive place to work: modern office premises, subsidized food in the canteen, free fruit and drinks, etc.“
Natalie
What attributes should an Account Manager bring to the table?
- An educational background in business or a comparable qualification
- The ability to work independently and to be driven by results
- Strong presentation and communication skills
- Relevant experience in selling solutions and services
- Solid IT background and extensive knowledge of the market and competitors
- Very good knowledge of German and English