Highlight your sales achievements with metrics

Hiring managers want to see the impact you've made in your previous roles. Use specific numbers and metrics to show your achievements:

• Increased revenue by 25% year-over-year, generating $1.2M in new business
• Exceeded quota by 20% for 6 consecutive quarters
• Managed a team of 10 sales representatives, improving team quota attainment from 80% to 95%

Avoid using vague statements that don't provide any context, like:

• Responsible for increasing sales
• Managed a sales team

Expand

   Tailor your resume to the specific role

Area Sales Manager roles can vary depending on the company and industry. Read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant. For example:

• If the role requires experience with a specific CRM system, mention your proficiency with that tool
• If the company sells technical products, emphasize your technical knowledge and ability to sell complex solutions

Customizing your resume shows the hiring manager that you've done your research and are a strong fit for the specific role.

   Showcase your leadership and team management skills

As an Area Sales Manager, you'll likely be responsible for leading and mentoring a team of sales representatives. Provide examples of your leadership experience and the impact you've had on your team:

• Coached and mentored 5 junior sales representatives, resulting in an average 30% improvement in quota attainment
• Implemented a new sales training program that reduced ramp-up time for new hires by 25%

If you don't have formal management experience, you can still highlight your leadership skills through projects, initiatives, or mentorship roles.

   Demonstrate your ability to drive growth and hit targets

Ultimately, the success of an Area Sales Manager is measured by their ability to drive revenue growth and consistently hit sales targets. Use your resume to showcase your track record of success:

Consistently exceeded sales targets, achieving 125% of quota on average and generating over $5M in revenue annually

If you're coming from a different industry or background, look for ways to translate your experience and show how you've driven growth or achieved ambitious goals in your previous roles.

   Highlight your industry expertise and network

Many Area Sales Manager roles require deep knowledge of a specific industry, market, or customer base. Use your resume to showcase your relevant expertise and network:

• 10+ years of experience selling software solutions to enterprise clients in the financial services industry
• Built and maintained relationships with key decision-makers at top accounts, resulting in a 95% customer retention rate

If you're new to the industry, highlight any transferable skills or experiences that show your ability to quickly learn and build relationships in a new market.

   Use a clear and concise format

While the content of your resume is important, the format and layout also play a key role in making a strong impression. Use a clear and concise format that highlights your key accomplishments and makes it easy for the hiring manager to quickly understand your background:

• Use bullet points and short paragraphs rather than long blocks of text
• Highlight key metrics and achievements with bolding or italics
• Use a consistent font and formatting throughout the document

Avoid using overly complicated or creative formats that make it difficult to find the important information.