How To Become a SAAS Account Executive: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a SAAS Account Executive, including education, skills, salary and more.
As a SAAS account executive, you will be responsible for managing and developing relationships with customers of a software as a service (SAAS) company. This can be a very rewarding career for those who are interested in technology and enjoy working with people. In this article, we discuss what a SAAS account executive does, the average salary and how to become one.
What Does a SAAS Account Executive Do?
A SAAS account executive is responsible for the sale of software products and services to customers. They work with new and existing clients to identify their needs and then offer solutions that meet those needs. In some cases, they may also be responsible for providing support to customers after a sale has been made.
The duties of a SAAS account executive include:
- Identifying potential customers and developing relationships with them
- Understanding the needs of potential and existing customers
- Offering solutions to customers that meet their needs
- Negotiating pricing and terms of service with customers
- Closing sales and achieving quotas
- Providing support to customers after a sale has been made
- Keeping up-to-date on the latest software products and services
- Generating reports on sales activities
SAAS Account Executive Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a SAAS account executive is $89,095. This figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the executive.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for SAAS account executives to grow at a slower than average rate over the next decade. This is due to many factors such as the growing use of data analysis in marketing. Companies often need the expertise of a market research analyst to gather, interpret and leverage that data into effective marketing strategies.
How to Become a SAAS Account Executive
Here are several steps you should take to become a SAAS Account Executive.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in business, sales, or a related field
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for this position. You can major in business, marketing or a related field and take courses in computer science, information technology (IT) or software engineering to be more qualified for this job. Coursework should include classes on statistics, economics, calculus, data analysis and project management.
If you are pursuing an IT-related degree, consider taking courses in network security, database design and programming. If your major does not have a concentration in sales, consider adding electives in that subject as well.
2. Gain experience in customer service and/or sales
While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for this position, experience in sales or customer service can help you stand out from other candidates. Consider working as a telemarketer, retail associate or waiter to develop your communication and people skills. You can also work as an administrative assistant or office manager to build your organizational and time management skills.
3. Consider completing an internship with a software company
Completing an internship can help you gain valuable experience and network with professionals in the software industry. You may be able to find internships through your college or university, but you can also search for internships on websites such as LinkedIn and CareerBuilder.
An internship can also help you decide if a career as a SAAS account executive is right for you. If you enjoy working in this field, consider applying for jobs at companies where you completed an internship.
4. Develop strong communication skills
Communication is an essential part of the job as a SAAS account executive. You must be able to clearly and concisely explain complex concepts to non-technical clients, such as business owners or managers. Additionally, you may need to communicate with software developers to ensure that their product meets your client’s needs.
5. Understand the features and benefits of various software products
Software companies offer a variety of products, so it’s important for SAAS account executives to understand the features and benefits of each one. For example, some software programs are designed for specific industries such as healthcare or manufacturing. It’s also helpful for SAAS account executives to know what their clients’ needs are and which product would best meet those needs.
6. Stay up to date on changes in technology
Technology is constantly changing, so it’s important for SAAS account executives to stay up to date on the latest developments. For example, a new app may have just been released that could be beneficial to your clients. You should also know about any changes in software platforms or updates that might affect your customers’ experience.
It can help to read industry publications and follow companies on social media to learn about these developments. Regularly reviewing this information will ensure you’re knowledgeable about the products you sell and able to provide accurate information to your clients.
7. Join professional organizations such as the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is a professional organization that provides educational and networking opportunities to individuals in the computing field. Membership with ACM can help you stay up to date on trends in technology, develop your professional network and earn professional development credits that may be required by some employers.
You can join ACM as an individual or through your college. If you are not currently enrolled in school, you will need to provide proof of a bachelor’s degree to qualify for membership.
