Creating a Development Plan for Sales Managers: Your Path to Leadership Success

Why Every Sales Manager Needs a Development Plan

Feeling like your career’s on autopilot, just cruising along?

It’s easy to do.

But here’s the truth:

If you’re serious about becoming a stronger sales leader, you need a map—a plan that keeps you moving toward your big goals. That’s what a development plan does. It’s like GPS for your growth as a sales manager.

Now, don’t get me wrong—self-development is important too (I covered some good tips on that here). But adding structure, like specific goals and timelines, can turn those personal growth ideas into actual progress. Plus, having a clear path forward makes everything feel more doable.

Ready to create your roadmap? Let’s break it down step-by-step…

Step 1: Assess Your Current Skills and Areas for Improvement

First things first—figure out where you stand. Think of it like looking in a mirror and being honest with what you see. Take a little time to assess your strengths, and yes, your weaknesses too.

Ask yourself questions like:

• How’s my communication with the team?
• Am I leading effectively, or just managing?
• Do I really know my stuff when it comes to sales numbers?

Consider getting feedback from others, like your team or a mentor, because let’s be real—they see things we sometimes miss. Make a list (or if lists aren’t your thing, just jot down a few notes) of where you’re strong and where there’s room to grow.

Step 2: Set Specific Goals for Growth

Alright, now that you know where you stand, it’s time to dream a little—realistically, of course! We’re talking goals that are both inspiring and achievable.

Here’s a tip:

Go for SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound). Why? Because goals like “I want to be a better leader” sound nice, but… how do you measure that? Instead, try something like, “Increase my team’s monthly sales by 10% in six months.” Now that’s a goal you can track.

Don’t forget to mix it up. Set a few short-term goals (something you can tackle in the next month or two) and some long-term ones (6-12 months out). This way, you’ll see progress fast while still working toward the bigger wins.

Step 3: Identify Key Skill Development Areas

Next up—figure out which skills you want to sharpen. As a sales manager, there are a few areas that can really level up your game, like coaching, team motivation, strategic planning, and yes, even data analysis (I know, not the most exciting, but it’s useful!).

Pick a few skills to focus on. Let’s say you’re great at motivating your team but need a little help with planning sales strategies. Make that a priority. Each new skill you develop makes your job easier and your team stronger.

And if you’re looking for some extra ideas, check out my other piece on self-development for sales managers for a few growth areas you might want to dig into.

Step 4: Create an Action Plan with Timelines

This is where the rubber meets the road. A goal without an action plan? Just a wish. So let’s make sure you’ve got a real plan to get where you want to go.

Break your goals into small, doable steps. For example:

• - Schedule weekly check-ins with your team to boost communication.
• - Set aside time each month to analyze sales reports.
• - Mark quarterly review dates in your calendar to see how far you’ve come.

By adding specific timelines and mini-tasks, you’ll feel like you’re making progress—even if it’s just one small step at a time. And trust me, those small steps add up.

Step 5: Leverage Resources and Seek Support

Now, you don’t have to go this alone. In fact, seeking out resources and a little backup can make the journey way smoother.

Look for a mentor who’s been down this road before. Maybe it’s a seasoned manager, someone in your company, or a professional coach. Having a sounding board makes a world of difference.

Don’t forget about all those online resources too—sales training courses, industry certifications, books, and videos. Even quick, casual reads or podcasts can be goldmines for new ideas. And the best part? You’re showing your team that learning never stops.

Step 6: Review and Adjust the Plan Regularly

Here’s the reality:

No plan is perfect from the start. That’s why it’s key to check in and tweak as you go. Maybe every few months, sit down and take a look. What’s working? What’s not?

Maybe a goal feels less relevant now, or maybe you’re ready to up the stakes. Adjust the timelines, add new goals, and keep things fresh. Growth isn’t a straight line, and that’s okay.

Staying Committed to the Journey

The road to becoming a better sales manager isn’t always easy, but having a plan makes it so much more rewarding. Take it one step at a time, stay flexible, and remember that every small win adds up to big change.

With a clear roadmap, a bit of support, and the right attitude, you’re already on the path to becoming the leader you want to be. And if a few bumps come up? Well, that’s just part of the adventure.