Still not feeling confident 4 months into a new job as an Account Manager for a manufacturing company.

Anonymous

October 20,2022 at 7:13PM UTC

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Still not feeling confident 4 months into a new job as an Account Manager for a manufacturing company. How long does it usually take to start feeling confident? is it normal to get behind some activities? I am worried my company will think I am not capable... Although I have received some positive feedback lately. Any advices? should I work past time everyday or even weekends to catch up?

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AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 8:38PM UTC
Depends on the complexity and scope of the job. If simple and you had an identical job in the past, 3mhs. If it involves new complexities not previously exposed to sometimes 6 mths to a yr provided that you have a good lead/mentor and or learned and established connections of your go to SMEs to help you in areas you need to get spoooled up on. Don't be discouraged, learn who those critical SMEs are and know how to leverage them for help. I would not recommend working on the weekends unless it is just occasional to get caught up. Getting burned out, does not help you either.
AnonymousOctober 22,2022 at 5:01PM UTC
Thank you for the advise!!! While I want to be in control of the situation, I don't feel like spending 7 days a week working.
Jessica AmaralOctober 20,2022 at 9:28PM UTC
Hi there! Are you an Account Manager as in sales? If so, starting a new book of business takes time. It's all about networking, sharing knowledge with as many people as possible, etc. and sometimes you may need to do that up to a year to see concrete results. Have faith and keep up the work ethic!
AnonymousOctober 22,2022 at 5:02PM UTC
Yes it is Sales Account Manager...
I just don't feel very confident when negotiating new prices with my new clients.. I guess time will give me the answers to the struggle.
Thank you for the nice words.
AnonymousOctober 20,2022 at 10:20PM UTC
In the beginning of a new role I always work over and above whatever is regular hours so I can feel comfortable and organized. So while you may want to do your 8 hours, that will probably not allow you that extra investment to really get a handle on your responsibilities.
I love the feeling if really knowing my job and filling that role. That always requires me to work outside regular hours. I usually start to really fill out my roles in 6 to 8 months.
It's up to you but you can try making the extra effort and see if it helps you get on top of things. If after a few weeks you still feel overwhelmed maybe it's time to discuss getting some extra help and explore the fact this job may be a 2 person job.
AnonymousOctober 22,2022 at 5:04PM UTC
Yes.. I am working 1 extra hour everyday. Maybe I should stop the negative thinking and focus more on achieving the goals.
Thank you for your words!
Anne MatsushitaOctober 22,2022 at 8:47PM UTC
Aww, it sounds like you're being hard on yourself! My background is in HR and Career Coaching, and it takes most people a good year before they feel like they're in a groove in a new role. Give yourself grace to make mistakes, learn, and grow!
You can also ask your manager what their expectations are for say your first 6 months, 1st year, etc. so you know what to focus on, rather than trying to learn everything at once. Best of luck!