Recruiting top-tier sales executives begins with an effective job description that attracts, informs and engages potential candidates. The right job description not only presents an overview of the role, but also provides a vivid picture of your company’s culture, vision and values.
Continue reading to understand how to write a sales executive jobdescription that captures attention and draws in the best talent. This article takes you through a step-by-step guide, top tips for success – and also the pitfalls you should try to avoid in the process.
A step-by-step guide to writing a standout sales executive job description
Step 1: Begin with a compelling job title
Your job title is the initial hook for potential candidates. It needs to be concise, yet accurately represent the nature and level of the job.
For example, instead of just “Sales Executive,” a more descriptive title might be “Senior B2B Sales Executive for the Tech Sector.” This title tells candidates that the job is a senior-level role, focused on B2B sales in the tech industry. Potential candidates know immediately whether they might be suitable for the role or not, and in turn you make a start on eliminating those who might not fit the position.
Step 2: Craft a compelling job summary
Your job summary gives potential candidates a snapshot of the role, company and your expectations. Be sure to outline what the sales executive will do, who they will work with and what they can expect to achieve. For example, a compelling job summary might read:
“As our Senior B2B Sales Executive, you’ll drive the expansion of our tech portfolio in the North American market. You’ll get to collaborate with a dynamic, goal-oriented sales team, and report directly to the VP of Sales. This role requires a passion for technology, a customer-centric approach and a proven track record in B2B sales.”
Step 3: List key responsibilities
When outlining how to write a sales executive job description, it’s crucial to list the key responsibilities. Clearly describe what the sales executive will be doing on a daily basis, who they will be reporting to and how their success will be measured. Make it detailed but concise. For example:
“The Sales Executive will be responsible for developing new business opportunities, building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, creating and presenting sales proposals, meeting or exceeding sales targets and providing detailed reports on sales metrics.”
Step 4: Detail the required skills and
qualifications
Specify the skills, qualifications and experience necessary for the role. These can include communication skills, problem-solving abilities, experience in a particular industry and educational qualifications. For instance:
“Our ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in Business or a related field, at least 5 years of experience in B2B sales within the tech sector, a strong understanding of CRM software and outstanding negotiation and presentation skills.”
Being precise at this stage also means candidates have the opportunity to demonstrate how they meet your exact requirements.
Step 5: Showcase your company culture
Use this section to describe your company’s culture, values and mission. This will help candidates determine if they will be a good fit and resonate with your organization’s goals and culture. For example:
“We are a fast-paced tech startup with a vibrant, collaborative culture. Our mission is to provide innovative technology solutions that disrupt traditional markets. We value transparency and continuous learning, and strive to create a supportive work environment where every team member’s contribution is recognized.”
Remember, the aim of writing a standout sales executive job description is to attract and engage the best candidates for your company. With careful crafting, your job description can serve as an effective tool in your recruiting toolkit.
Top 7 tips for writing a sales executive job
description
1. Use clear, concise language
Keep your language simple and direct. Avoid jargon that might confuse candidates or discourage them from applying.
2. Highlight the benefits and perks
Attractive benefits and perks can be a major draw for top talent. Highlight these to capture candidates’ interest.
3. List the compensation
Sales professionals tend to be money motivated. They have drive, tenacity and perseverance – but ultimately, they want to be
rewarded for their sales successes. At Hanover, we find that we get much higher response rates to job descriptions when compensation is listed.
Sales people don’t want to waste their time in conversations and interviews only to find out the position will not pay them what they are currently making. Listing your salary and OTE ranges will attract more qualified candidates.
4. Showcase opportunities for growth
High-level executives are often career-oriented. Showing potential for growth and advancement within your organization can make the role more appealing.
5. Showcase your product
It’s imperative to a sales professional that the product they’re selling is top-tier in the market or has a distinctive point of differentiation. Make these known in your job description. Since many sales professionals work from referrals and relationships, if they’re selling a sub-par product or the company can’t deliver on what they are selling, this could potentially harm their credibility as well as any future commissions or compensation.
6. Include the location of the job
Whether it’s a remote position, onsite or a mixture of both, be sure to include this information.
7. Proofread and review
Before posting the job description, proofread it for errors, clarity and completeness.
What not to include in a sales executive job description
In understanding how to write a sales executive job description, it’s just as important to know what to leave out as it is to know what to include.
Try to avoid overly long descriptions as they can be off-putting, and don’t include irrelevant responsibilities or qualifications. Also, steer clear of discriminatory language that may deter a diverse pool of candidates.
Need help recruiting outstanding sales executives to your firm? Contact us today to find out how our executive search experts can help you.
