As you may know, I've helped a few people get better at sales and I'm pleased to say that many of them have gone on to become very successful sales managers, directors, VPs and a few MDs and CEOs. I remember one time, one of my clients asked what I thought about them becoming a sales manager. I answered him, but before I share the answer, I'd like to set the stage.

I wrote this article over a decade ago. RainMaker Wanted?

A few years later came How to be a Sales Rock Star in 2013.

Here's a couple of rainmaker stories that may make you wonder what's possible in your world, but as you read on, you may realize why so few people become rainmakers or rock stars.

Is this your sales manager?

So, first, I'm not judging. I'm not suggesting the rock star path or the manager path and I'm not suggesting that your employer is doing anything that I wouldn't do if I had their job, but OMG suggests that only 6% of salespeople are rock stars. Think about it. If you owned a company, would you try to grow rock stars or would you allow your managers to manage mediocrity to attain the company goals?

Moral of the story? If you want to be a rock star, it's on you.

BTW, whenever a client asks me if they should consider becoming a sales manager, I always give the same answer. Are you willing to give up the glory and spotlight of being a top producer and help your subordinates earn their glory and spotlight?

Thanks for reading. Fell free to share.