How to Make Money Online as an Account Executive: 10 Actionable Ideas

In today's digital age, the role of an Account Executive is evolving. Traditionally, Account Executives (AEs) were primarily focused on client acquisition, relationship management, and sales in person. However, with the rise of remote work and the increasing reliance on digital platforms, AEs now have the opportunity to make money online in innovative and profitable ways. Whether you're an experienced Account Executive looking to expand your earning potential or someone new to the role, this article provides 10 actionable ideas on how to make money online as an Account Executive.

Offer Freelance Account Management Services

If you have a strong background in client management, you can offer freelance account management services to businesses that need help managing their customer relationships. Many startups, small businesses, and even larger companies often look for experienced professionals to handle their accounts without hiring full-time staff.

How to Start:

• Platform: Websites like Upwork , Freelancer , and Fiverr are great places to start offering your services. Create a compelling profile that highlights your expertise in managing key accounts, communication skills, and the results you've achieved in your previous roles.
• Market: Be specific about the industries you specialize in (e.g., tech, retail, B2B) and tailor your offerings to those niches. Having specialized knowledge can set you apart from the competition.
• Offer Packages: You can create different service packages based on the number of accounts you'll manage, the level of engagement required, and the time commitment.

Earnings Potential:

• Rates: As a freelance account manager, you can charge anywhere from $25 to $100 per hour, depending on your experience and the complexity of the accounts you are handling. Monthly retainers can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the scope of work.

Create and Sell Digital Products for AEs

Account Executives have a deep understanding of sales processes, client relationships, and communication strategies. This knowledge can be turned into valuable digital products such as eBooks, courses, templates, or guides. These products can help others in similar roles or those aspiring to become AEs.

How to Start:

• Identify Pain Points: Think about the challenges you faced as an AE and the tools you wish you had when you started. This could be anything from sales script templates, email outreach templates, or a guide on how to handle objections effectively.
• Platform: Use platforms like Teachable , Udemy , or Gumroad to create and sell digital products. You can also sell through your own website.
• Marketing: Leverage your network, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms to promote your products. Offer free resources such as blog posts, webinars, or templates to build trust before launching paid products.

Earnings Potential:

• Revenue: Depending on the quality of your digital products and the market demand, you could earn anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand per month. Successful courses or eBooks can generate consistent passive income.

Start a Sales Coaching Business

As an experienced Account Executive, you likely have valuable knowledge on how to close deals, build relationships, and meet quotas. This expertise can be monetized by offering coaching services to other sales professionals, including Account Executives, Sales Development Representatives, and Account Managers.

How to Start:

• Create a Coaching Program: Develop a structured coaching program that covers essential topics such as prospecting, relationship-building, negotiation techniques, and closing strategies.
• Platform: Offer your coaching services through platforms like CoachAccountable , Clarity.fm, or your own website. You can offer one-on-one coaching or group coaching sessions.
• Marketing: Promote your services on LinkedIn, Instagram, or other social media channels. Share testimonials, case studies, and success stories to build your credibility.

Earnings Potential:

• Pricing: Coaching can be priced anywhere from $100 to $500 per session, depending on the length and depth of the session. For long-term coaching packages, you could charge anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 per client.

Affiliate Marketing with Sales Tools

As an Account Executive, you are likely familiar with sales tools and software that help manage client relationships, streamline communication, and track performance. By promoting and recommending these tools through affiliate marketing programs, you can earn commissions from each sale.

How to Start:

• Research Affiliate Programs: Many sales software companies, such as HubSpot , Salesforce , Outreach , and LinkedIn Sales Navigator, offer affiliate programs. Research and find products that align with your audience's needs.
• Create Content: Write blog posts, create video reviews, or host webinars that demonstrate the benefits of using these tools. Include affiliate links in your content.
• Promote: Share your affiliate content on your blog, LinkedIn, or YouTube. Engage with your audience through social media platforms, email newsletters, or podcasts.

Earnings Potential:

• Commissions: Affiliate commissions can range from $10 to $500 per sale, depending on the product and the affiliate program. With a large audience, you can generate a significant income through affiliate marketing.

Develop a Personal Brand on LinkedIn

LinkedIn is one of the best platforms for Account Executives to showcase their expertise, build a network, and attract new business opportunities. By creating a strong personal brand on LinkedIn, you can attract job offers, consulting opportunities, and speaking engagements.

How to Start:

• Optimize Your Profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete, including a professional photo, a compelling headline, and a detailed summary of your skills and experience. Showcase your achievements and highlight your sales success.
• Create and Share Content: Regularly share industry insights, case studies, and tips on sales and account management. Engage with other professionals by commenting on their posts and participating in discussions.
• Grow Your Network: Connect with other Account Executives, sales professionals, and industry influencers. Attend LinkedIn events, webinars, and groups related to your niche.

Earnings Potential:

• Opportunities: As you grow your personal brand, you may attract paid consulting offers, speaking engagements, or job offers. If you offer valuable content, businesses may reach out to you for account management services, leading to a steady stream of clients.

Create a Niche Blog or YouTube Channel for Sales Professionals

A niche blog or YouTube channel focusing on sales and account management can help you build a community of like-minded professionals. You can create valuable content such as tips for overcoming objections, how to nurture client relationships, or how to use CRM tools effectively.

How to Start:

• Choose a Platform: Start a blog using platforms like WordPress or create a YouTube channel. Decide on your niche---whether it's sales techniques, software tools, or personal experiences as an Account Executive.
• Content Creation: Produce high-quality content that offers solutions to common problems Account Executives face. Offer actionable tips, case studies, and real-life examples from your experience.
• Monetization: Once you've built a following, monetize your blog or YouTube channel through affiliate marketing, sponsored content, or ads.

Earnings Potential:

• Ad Revenue: With a large and engaged audience, you can generate ad revenue through platforms like Google AdSense or YouTube ads. You can also earn through affiliate sales and sponsored content. High-traffic blogs or channels can make anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per month.

Offer Sales Webinars and Workshops

If you're an expert in the sales field, you can offer paid webinars and workshops that focus on helping others succeed in their careers as Account Executives. These online sessions can be on a wide range of topics, from mastering cold calls to learning advanced negotiation strategies.

How to Start:

• Select a Platform: Use platforms like Zoom , WebinarJam , or GoToWebinar to host your webinars. Promote them on social media, through email newsletters, or via LinkedIn.
• Content Development: Develop a structured presentation that provides valuable insights, actionable strategies, and techniques that Account Executives can implement immediately.
• Pricing and Promotion: Charge a fee for attendance or offer free webinars with an upsell to a paid course or coaching program.

Earnings Potential:

• Ticket Sales: Depending on the topic and the number of attendees, you could earn anywhere from $500 to $10,000 per webinar. Offering exclusive content or follow-up coaching can increase your revenue potential.

Sell Templates, Scripts, and Resources

As an Account Executive, you likely have several templates and scripts that you use regularly---whether it's email outreach templates, sales scripts, or client onboarding checklists. These resources can be sold online to other sales professionals who need them.

How to Start:

• Create a Collection of Templates: Think about the resources you use most often in your sales process. Organize them into easily downloadable packages.
• Platform: Sell these templates on platforms like Gumroad or through your own website. You can offer them as one-time purchases or as part of a subscription service.
• Marketing: Promote your resources through your social media channels, LinkedIn, or email lists.

Earnings Potential:

• Sales: Depending on the popularity and usefulness of your templates, you can make anywhere from $100 to $1,000 per month by selling them online.

Join a Commission-Based Sales Program

If you're not ready to take the leap into full-time entrepreneurship but still want to make money online, consider joining a commission-based sales program. Many companies offer commission-only opportunities for Account Executives to sell their products or services remotely.

How to Start:

• Find Opportunities: Look for commission-based sales opportunities on websites like AngelList , Indeed , or LinkedIn Jobs.
• Sales Pitch: Tailor your pitch and approach to match the company's offerings. Use your knowledge of sales and client relationships to convert leads into paying customers.
• Flexible Hours: One of the main benefits of commission-based work is flexibility. You can choose when and where you work, and the more deals you close, the more money you make.

Earnings Potential:

• Commissions: Your income will depend on your performance. Some sales programs offer commissions of 10% to 30% per sale. Depending on the product and the volume of sales, this can result in anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per month.

Create a Sales Support Service

Many businesses and entrepreneurs need help with various sales-related tasks, such as lead generation, CRM management, and sales reporting. As an experienced AE, you can create a business offering these services remotely.

How to Start:

• Identify Services: Offer services such as managing CRM systems, lead qualification, cold emailing, or even preparing sales reports.
• Platforms: Promote your services on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer, or through your personal network.
• Automate: As your business grows, automate repetitive tasks using tools like Zapier or HubSpot to streamline processes and save time.

Earnings Potential:

• Service Fees: Depending on the scope of work, you can charge $25 to $75 per hour for sales support services. Long-term contracts or ongoing services can provide a steady income stream.

Conclusion

As an Account Executive, you have a wealth of experience that can be leveraged in many ways to make money online. By offering freelance services, selling digital products, coaching others, or engaging in affiliate marketing, you can diversify your income streams while expanding your professional expertise. The opportunities are vast, and with the right approach, you can build a profitable online business that complements your career as an Account Executive.

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