Choosing your Leadership Path: Different ways to be a leader in sales

There is no one-size-fits-all way to be in sales leadership. Being a leader doesn’t mean you need to hold an official title, nor do you need to be the smartest person in the room. Nowadays, leadership is exemplified by those who are willing to take risks, who don’t carry an ego, and who prioritize winning as a team vs personal success.Our panelists from Rapid7, Sarah Sidford (Sales Manager) and Jessica Rennie (Senior Enterprise Account Executive), shared different perspectives on how to pave your own path in sales leadership.

Leaders can't be afraid to take risks.

You need to be willing to practice what you preach and try new things. Whether you succeed or fail, those around you will benefit from the learnings which could forge new programs or offer fresh perspectives. By taking those risks, you pave your own path and entice others to follow you “into the sun”.

Your team is your customers.

Managers who prioritize the happiness and well-being of their team produce better results. When your team feels positive and supported, they're able to be their best selves for your customers. Generally, if you prioritize your team’s holistic happiness, their success and your team’s success will follow.

You shouldn't have all the answers.

The best leaders, regardless of the role they're in, know what they don't know just as much as what they do know. Leaders aren’t afraid to admit what they don’t know, and you’ll more earnestly be able to help those around you if you check your ego at the door and are always open to fresh perspectives.You don’t have to be managing a team to be a leader - you can be a leader through your behaviors no matter what your role is. If actual management is something you’re considering, remember that you should make the move because you want that specific role, not because you think you should or it’s the most logical next step.Want to learn more? You can stream the full event recording here.Thank you to all of the WISE sponsors that made this event possible and our panelists from Rapid7 for sharing their time and advice.