Thinking about shifting gears in your career path? If you’re intrigued by the intersection of sales, marketing, CS and technology, Revenue Operations (RevOps) might be the ideal field for you. RevOps offers an opportunity to leverage diverse skills, no matter what (commercial) background you have. This mini guide outlines how to transition into RevOps, what steps to take, the expected timeline, and why it’s a move worth considering.
This is a highly personal topic as I had meandered for over a decade before landing on RevOps. Figuring out how to break in was quite a conundrum and so I hope what I’ve learnt can help you. Also, I’ve written about the typical RevOps career path if you’re curious.
Why Choose a Career in RevOps?
RevOps is an increasingly critical function that integrates sales, marketing, and customer service operations to maximize a company’s revenue potential. In many cases, it involves the partnerships department and working closely with finance too. It’s perfect for those who enjoy:
– Strategic Analysis: Utilizing data to drive strategic decisions that enhance business growth.
– Cross-Functional Collaboration: Working across different teams to ensure alignment and optimize workflows.
– Technology Utilization: Leveraging tools to streamline processes and improve efficiencies.
Transitioning into RevOps: Your Five-Step Action Plan
Embarking on a new career can seem daunting – trust me, I know. That’s especially why I recommend a structured approach, to make the transition smooth and rewarding.
Step 1: Identify Transferable Skills
Evaluate your current skill set to see how it can apply to a RevOps role. Commonly transferable skills include:
– Analytical Abilities: Crucial for data-driven decision-making in RevOps.
– Project Management: Helpful for overseeing initiatives that span multiple departments.
– Technical Acumen: Beneficial for managing CRM systems and automation tools.
Tip: Don’t worry if you don’t have a sales or marketing operations background. You absolutely have transferable skills, so identify them and capitalize on them.
Step 2: Acquire Necessary Knowledge and Skills
Fill any gaps in your skill set by pursuing relevant training:
– Data Analysis Courses: To enhance your ability to interpret and leverage business data, if this is where you think you’re lacking. A thorough working knowledge of SQL and Excel can never hurt so I’d recommend familiarizing yourself with these technologies no matter what.
– Understanding Sales and Marketing: Gain insights into these areas through workshops or online courses. There are a billion courses online… enroll for a few recommended courses and just learn. I think HubSpot academy is a great resource.
– Certifications: Consider certifications in CRM platforms like HubSpot or Salesforce or in project management methodologies. However, before spending too much time on certifications, figure out if it’s actually required. Depending on the kind of RevOps role and the size of the company, some of these certifications (skills) might not be needed to break in.
Step 3: Gain Hands-On Experience
Try to gain experience that is directly applicable to RevOps:
– Cross-Departmental Projects: Volunteer for projects that require collaboration between sales and marketing.
– RevOps Internships: Even short-term internships or shadowing opportunities can provide valuable insights and experiences. Forget your age and just swallow your pride. Think long term – this experience will pay massive dividends.
Step 4: Network in the Industry
Build connections with existing RevOps professionals:
– Professional Groups: Join networks or online communities focused on RevOps.
– Conferences and Meetups: Attend industry events to meet peers and learn from their experiences.
– LinkedIn: I think 99% of the right people you need to help make this transition are active on LinkedIn. Double down on networking via LinkedIn.
Step 5: Apply for RevOps Positions
Tailor your resume to highlight your newly acquired skills and experiences relevant to RevOps, and start applying for suitable roles. I believe in the concept of radical honesty and don’t think there’s any harm in being fully transparent. Inform recruiters upfront that you’re aware your resume might not fit the bill 100%, and stand your ground. Also, get creative!
At the end of the day, companies want employees to do things they can’t currently manage themselves. If you can, find a problem or a project that is interesting for the company and propose a solution as part of your application. If the company can see your value before they even interview you, your chances of landing the role are 10x higher.
Bonus Step 6: Get a Mentor
One of the fastest, sure shot ways to navigate the waters is having a mentor guide you. If you can get a seasoned RevOps professional to mentor you for free, you’ve hit the jackpot. If not, there are several platforms like MentorCruise and GrowthMentor which are more than worth the tiny investment. Especially when you look at the long-term impact a mentor can have in setting you on the right path and picking you up when you’re down, it’s a measly sum. I’ve personally used MentorCruise and it helped a great deal!
Real-Life Example: Tim
Consider Tim, a 30 something marketing specialist looking to transition into RevOps. Tim has excelled in digital marketing but wants to leverage these skills in a more analytical and strategic role. By following the steps above, Tim could start by taking courses in data analytics and learning more about sales processes. Participating in projects that involve both sales and marketing at his current job would also provide Tim with the cross-functional experience desirable in RevOps.
He would do well to network with people who are where he wants to be and leverage his existing skill set for a RevOps role. Tim doesn’t care that he’s “too old” and focuses on the long-term. He’s going to make this transition to RevOps a reality. Tim sees this as a marathon and not a sprint. Be like Tim.
Why Make the Transition?
Nothing moves a mountain like an inspiring WHY.
Transitioning into RevOps can offer:
– Professional Growth: RevOps roles are becoming more strategic and prominent, presenting significant career advancement opportunities.
– Broader Impact: Professionals in RevOps can directly influence the success and direction of their companies.
– Continuous Learning: The field requires staying on top of new technologies and strategies, perfect for those who thrive on constant development.
– Dynamism: No day is the same and the amount of creativity that RevOps offers for a commercial role is of huge appeal to many.
– Career safety: Unlike many careers, RevOps is relatively safe from the impact of AI on jobs. Because of how intertwined it is with every facet of the organization, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Automating it 100% is therefore a challenge that won’t be fully solved in the the coming decade at least.
Expected Timeline
I’m going to go out on a limb and say the transition typically takes about 3-12 months, depending. This timeline allows for adequate learning and gaining relevant experience while starting to build a professional network in the field. I also know people who just fell into RevOps without even knowing what it is, with no experience. Perhaps that could be you!
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a role that challenges you to use your analytical mind, strategic thinking, and love for technology, RevOps could be your ultimate career. Research, learn, network and don’t give up. If there’s a will, there’s a way and no matter what, you can make the transition.
