Summary
Client Relationship Managers are sales professionals who oversee one or more client accounts for a company. Although client relationship managers can also be called Account or Sales Managers, Customer Care Managers, or Corporate Services Manager, they perform the same responsibilities. They develop marketing strategies to increase sales and ensure the company satisfies the customer’s needs. The roles of Client Relationship Managers vary depending on the size of the company, but they may be assigned to oversee workers who handle administrative tasks to front end operations.
Duties
A Client Relations Manager’s tasks vary depending on the type and size of the company. They typically include providing help and suggestions to clients using the company’s products and services, as well as solving client issues and handling complaints from clients. Client Relationship Managers are also responsible for issuing refunds to clients, maintaining accurate records of discussions and correspondence with clients, while determining the level of customer service the company is providing through analyses of data and other statistics. They develop procedures for customer feedback and complaints, produce policies and standards of customer service for the company, and discuss possible improvements in customer service policies with other managers. Client Relationship Managers are also in charge of participating in staff recruitment and appraisals, supervising a team of customer service staff and training them to deliver a high standard of customer service. They keep updated about developments in customer service by reading relevant journals and attending special courses.
Education and Training Requirements
Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, Business Management, or other related field. A candidate may also possess a degree in the field related to the specific industry they specialize in, such as health care, computer science, engineering, accounting, or finance. Some industries require licensing or certification related to it, which may be acquired online or at accredited organizations such as the American Society of Employers.
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
A Client Relations Manager must have strong leadership, problem solving, and planning skills, as well as excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills. They must be highly organized with a strong attention to detail. Client relations managers must be good with project management and be knowledgeable about the company’s products. Proficiency in the use of computers is also necessary.
Working Conditions
Client Relations Managers usually work in a fast-paced office environment. They work an average of 40 hours per week, although overtime work in the weekends or evenings may be required to meet deadlines. There may also be a need to travel to meet clients, and thus may be exposed to varying weather conditions.
Salary
The median salary of a Client Relations Manager is $56,000 per year. Starting salaries are typically lower but experienced managers may receive an average of $72,000 per year. This varies greatly due to the size of the company and geographic location, industry, experience of the employee, and benefits. Their salary may also include commissions and bonuses based on sales and profitability.