4 Signs You Need A New Software Sales Job

Sales offers more mobility than any other career, but it’s easy to settle into a role and stop thinking about your next move. These four signs that you need a new software sales job are good indicators that it might be time for a change.

Don’t turn in your notice tomorrow if any of these sounds familiar. Just be aware that there are other opportunities out there that might have fewer shortcomings.

You’re overachieving.

Exceeding quota, making President’s Club and maxing out your commissions are all good things, so why is it a sign you need a new job?

First, it means you’ve maximized the potential in your current role, which means you’re leaving money on the table by not tackling bigger challenges. Second, every software company on Earth is looking for top performing sales talent and you’re in a great position to find a more lucrative opportunity when you’ve got a couple of 100%+ years under your belt.

Your product isn’t in the cloud.

Okay, your product might not need to move to the cloud, but you don’t want to be the guy selling buggies after the Model T hits the road. If you notice your competition is innovating faster than your current organization or you hear rumors of some sexy startup that’s going to turn your industry on it’s head, you should start looking at your options.

You can – and should – share your competitive insights with your current employer. If they can’t, or won’t, make the adjustments your days might be numbered anyway.

You can’t work from home.

The age of the cubicle farm is over and your company’s culture should reflect that. It’s becoming more common for sales teams to work remotely a few days each week or develop flextime arrangements if you need to be in the office.

Even if you do have to work the standard 9 – 5 day in the office, you should feel like your employer is making an effort to engage you beyond a paycheck and free coffee.

You’re always cold calling.

Cold calling is a part of sales. That’s not going to change. However, a good sales professional is most valuable when they’re engaging qualified prospects, not when they’re leaving 100 voice mails. Your company should realize this and endeavour to get those qualified prospects into your hands.

If you’re just starting out you’ll need to cut your teeth on cold calls, but once you’ve proven yourself you should see some support from marketing or other resources. If it’s not forthcoming, you’re not making the best use of your skills.