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How to become an Account Executive

To begin with, you should have at least a bachelor's degree in marketing, advertising, communication and media, business and management, psychology or statistics. Although you don't necessarily need a special certification to become an account executive, many agencies prefer an advanced degree, such as an MBA.

Secondly, an account executive needs several years of experience in accounting (the number of years needed varies with the company). You should also have basic skills with spreadsheet software such as Excel.

Finally, your background should include customer service, creativity, attention to detail, strategic planning skills and solid sales skills. You should also be creative and able to work under pressure. Be prepared to offer examples from your professional and personal experience that demonstrate as many of these attributes as possible.

How to become: Account Manager · Outside Sales Representative · Business Development Manager · Sales Executive · Sales Representative
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Typical qualifications for an Account Executive

3/4
Your Indeed Profile has 3 of the 4 qualifications typically needed to be an Account Executive.
Indeed users who have worked as an Account Executive typically have these qualifications.
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Skills employers are looking for

Note this is provided for informational purposes only. Adding qualifications does not guarantee a job interview, opportunity, or an offer.
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Account Executive jobs in United States

Staffmark3.6
San Antonio, TX
View job details
4 hours ago
American ridge management
Dallas, TX
$40,000 - $75,000 a year
Full-time
4 hours ago
Capital Preferences4
Remote
$80,000 - $110,000 a year
Full-time
1 hour ago
Zenith Design + Build
Clive, IA
Full-time
1 day ago
YESCO3.7
Kennewick, WA
Full-time
1 day ago
View all Account Executive jobs

Career progression for Account Executive

Education levels for Account Executives

Based on the requirements of Account Executive job openings on Indeed in the United States within the last three years.
required level of educationpercent of job openings
Bachelor's degree3.0%
High school diploma or GED2.0%
Associate's degree1.0%
Master's degree0.0%
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Expected salary by experience

Based on resume data from Indeed users who reported working as an Account Executive in the United States within the last three years.
Years of experienceAnnual salary in USD
0 - 4$46,500
4 - 8$55,300
8 - 12$61,800
12 - 16$67,900
16 - 20$71,800
20 - 24$75,500
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Common questions about career advices for an Account Executive

What experience in other fields can help someone to become an account executive?

Experience as an advertiser, sales manager, accountant, or project manager can help with building the skills needed to become an account executive. Basic knowledge in these fields can be supplemented by on-the-job training specific to an industry.

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What skills make an account executive successful?

Successful account executives have the following skills:

  • Effective communication and organizing skills
  • Adaptable to various situations
  • Multi-tasking and time management skills
  • Empathy
  • Strong analytical and decision-making skills
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Which software do account executives have to be skilled in?

Account executives should have a basic knowledge of accounting software such as QuickBooks and Sage, as well as Microsoft Office and customer relationship management (CRM) software.

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What steps can someone take to become an account executive?

How many years does it take to become an account executive?

What are the characteristics of a successful account executive?

Do account executives need a college degree?

How can account executives improve their account management skills?

What should account executives include in their resume?

What are good keywords for an account executive resume?

How can someone with no experience become an account executive?

Is account management a good skill for account executives?

What are good certifications for an account executive to have?

How do account executives advance their careers?

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