Career roadmap
How to Become a Sales Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a sales manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a sales manager: (1) succeed as a sales rep, (2) mentor others, (3) become a team lead, (4) build management skills, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years plus 3–5 years in sales. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a sales manager
Succeed as a sales rep
Exceed quota consistently.
Mentor others
Help train new reps.
Become a team lead
Lead a small team.
Build management skills
Learn coaching and forecasting.
Advance
Become a director or VP of sales.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field plus years of sales experience is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years plus 3–5 years in sales |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Sales Leader: Credentials for sales management.
- Certified Sales Professional (CSP): Sales credential.
- Salesforce certifications: CRM administration and analytics.
- Leadership development programs: Company or university leadership training.
Skills to build now
Start with sales forecasting, pipeline management, and coaching, and practice leadership and motivation. Learning the sales manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Sales Representative: Sell and exceed quota.
- Sales Team Lead: Lead a small team.
- Sales Manager: Manage a team.
- Director or VP of Sales: Lead sales organizations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Sales Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do sales managers need a degree?
Usually, though results matter most.
How long does it take to become a sales manager?
Most people need about 4 years plus 3–5 years in sales of training. A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field plus years of sales experience is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a sales manager?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical plus experience. Many sales managers are promoted for strong sales results, with or without a degree.
What certifications are available for sales managers?
Common credentials include Certified Sales Leader, Certified Sales Professional (CSP), Salesforce certifications, and Leadership development programs. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-2022 (Sales managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Sales managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.