I SDR'd for over 2.5 years, so much of my activity was outbound. Then, I transitioned into an AM role for 6.5 years, where I focused on inbound and outbound, but also closing deals. At my company, I'm probably viewed as the most outbound focused. However, I get paid like an SDR. The upward mobility is nil, and the upside to closing deals is not high at all. Trying to hit my number here is a nightmare. Lots of internal issues with our process and logistics that prevent it. Getting an AE role has been super elusive because my quota metrics are subpar. I'm sure I could be doing more, but I'm swimming against the current here. One idea I had was to get into another company as an SDR. Typically, there's little experience required and upward mobility is there for AE's. Some SDR roles seem more lucrative than what I'm getting now. Do I sound crazy to want to go backward from an AM to an SDR to try and rebuild?
I appreciate the advice and support!
Not crazy at all. Just be ready to answer the question when the hiring manager suggests you're taking a step back.
Thank you! Yeah, I got that on lock. Not sure why a hiring manager to get an “experienced SDR” for a new role. Only a good thing for SDR teams, right?
It doesn't make a lot of sense, but for some reason there's always a stigma that someone who may be "overqualified" won't be a long-term hire. I hope they're reasonable during your interview. Good luck!
You should be able to get an SMB role with your experience
Given the situation you described, I don't think it's a bad strategy at all. Especially if you go to an org where they have a well-established path for promotion from SDR to AE. Just make sure that the org has a good RepVue score and strong quota attainment.