Sales people are sought to become managers, but not all great sales people can manage such a diverse and dynamic business need to recognize this fact. Positive change has been slow. Initial advancement is based on successful passing of key metrics and testing, but there is little training in managing people and mentoring or in being prepared for further advancement. Much of your early career is a grind and learning on the go with minimal support or mentoring to get to the next opportunity. Many managers have never managed before, with most having only worked for this company creating a lack of creative thinking or understanding of other processes and methods that may work better. A lot of upper advancement beyond the branch manager is driven by political decision rather than education, experience and abilities. Unfortunately there is a serious gap between top management and middle management and where they are trying to get to. The top executives fortunately are recognizing they aren't getting good information and are reaching out more to the front line employees.There is an expectation of relocation in order to advance with little assistance or regard for the impact on families. A willingness to relocate with strong performance doesn't ensure an employee will be advanced as the need for strong producers causes these individuals to get stuck. Very long hours, can be difficult to get time off, often have to work even when not feeling well due to hours of locations, staff, and retention issues.
