Account Executive (Chicago)

As an Account Executive at PartySlate in Chicago, you will be responsible for driving new business by identifying, prospecting, and closing memberships with event professionals and venues. Your role will also include developing a robust sales pipeline, executing cold outreach, and conducting both in-person and virtual meetings to present the value of our memberships. Networking events will play a key part in generating leads and enhancing brand exposure, while collaborating with the Customer Success team ensures a smooth transition for new members.

To become an Account Executive at PartySlate, candidates typically need 2–4 years of sales experience, ideally within marketplace or event sales. A proven record of meeting or surpassing quotas is vital. Exceptional relationship-building skills through cold outreach, persuasive communication skills, and familiarity with sales processes, forecasting, and tools such as HubSpot are preferred. Being organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated are crucial traits for success in this role.

The Account Executive role at PartySlate offers a hybrid work model for candidates based in the Chicagoland area. This flexibility means you can enjoy a mix of remote work and in-office collaboration, allowing you to balance productivity with the benefits of team interaction and networking opportunities essential for your success.

PartySlate is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for all employees, including Account Executives. We uphold values that ensure qualified applicants from various backgrounds receive fair consideration for employment, irrespective of race, gender, religion, or other characteristics. Our commitment extends to creating a workplace where every individual feels valued and respected.

To excel as an Account Executive at PartySlate, strong skills in relationship building, effective communication, and strategic prospecting are essential. Understanding the sales process, staying organized, and being adaptable in a fast-paced environment will also contribute to your success. Additionally, having a good grasp of industry trends and competitor landscape will help position you effectively within the marketplace.

When asked about your sales experience for the Account Executive position, focus on specific achievements such as meeting quotas, successful outreach strategies, and any marketplace-related roles you've held. Highlight metrics or examples that showcase your success, such as percentage increases in sales or notable client acquisitions.

Share your multi-faceted approach to prospecting, which may include identifying target markets, conducting research to gather insights, and leveraging networking events for lead generation. Be sure to emphasize your cold outreach strategies and how you tailor your messaging to connect with potential clients effectively.

Explain your systematic approach to sales target management, such as setting personal benchmarks, using CRM tools to track progress, and regularly reviewing performance metrics. Discuss how you prioritize tasks, maintain motivation, and adapt your strategies based on results to ensure you consistently meet or exceed your goals.

Discuss your method for handling objections by actively listening to the client's concerns and responding with tailored information. You could mention techniques like reframing the discussion to highlight benefits or providing social proof through client testimonials, making your case more compelling.

Share a specific experience where you effectively networked at an event. Highlight your preparation, how you engaged attendees, and the strategies you used to follow up with leads afterward. Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of personal connections in sales.

Articulate your insights on PartySlate's unique value proposition, such as its innovative technology solutions that connect event planners with vendors and venues. Discuss your perspective on how these elements create a superior experience for users in comparison to competitors and why you believe in the company's mission.

Highlight your proactive approach in staying informed about industry trends and competitors by subscribing to relevant publications, attending webinars/conferences, and engaging on relevant online platforms. Mention any particular resources you rely on to ensure you are well-versed in the latest happenings in the events space.

Share a compelling story about a successful client relationship, emphasizing the steps you took to establish trust and understand their needs. Talk about how you provided solutions that resonated with the client and the long-term outcome of that relationship, showcasing your ability to nurture and grow professional connections.

Explain how collaboration is crucial in sales, especially when working with other departments like Customer Success. Share your experience in utilizing teamwork to enhance client relationships, ensure seamless transitions, and meet overall business goals effectively.

Convey your passion for the events industry and how PartySlate aligns with your career aspirations. Share specific aspects of the company's mission and culture that resonate with you, and express your eagerness to contribute to the growth and success of the team while making a difference in the events arena.