A Collab Manager is Simply an SDR
They have existed, functioned and scaled growth way before Web3 — An Opinion Post.
A common Myth is that Collab Managers are only relevant in Web3 because it is a Web3 Terminology amongst others.
Whatever these myths are, what is very true is Collab managers are one of the most crucial top-of-funnel Marketing roles utilised to generate leads, collate Wallets, and generate interest.
However, the role of a collab manager needs Structure and to build the structure for the role of a collab manager, we must knock down those myths because they are myths and nothing more and build up a structure for how we work.
Collab Managers Across Industries:
I’ve worked across 4 industries to date, primarily as a Direct Response Copywriter, Marketing Manager, Email Marketer, Content Creation Lead, Affiliate Manager, SDR, and currently Head of partnership. Working in Industries like:
- B2B (HVAC companies, Logistics and Transport companies)
- B2C (Pet Ecom Store brands, Dropshipping Brands)
- Course Creators and Sellers
- Now Crypto and Web3 (Rocket3, Binance, Nfinity Labs amongst 3 dozen other brands) and I can state one thing boldly
Collab managers have existed way before Web3.
Collab Managers as SDRs:
In the B2B industry, Collab Managers are known as SDRs or Sales representatives (Sales Men or Women). SDRs in Car Dealerships are simply amazing with their approach, follow and sales process, there are many others too.
In the B2C and Course Creator industries, they function as Closers and Cold Callers. These are more remote roles. We initiate conversions, followup etc for one goal, make a sale.
But the point remains — Collab managers are simply SDRs!
Who is an SDR:
A sales development representative (SDR) is a sales professional responsible for identifying and qualifying potential customers or clients for a company’s products or services.
SDRs typically work in the early stages of the sales process, reaching out to leads and conducting outreach through various communication channels, such as email, phone calls, and social media.
The primary goal of an SDR is to generate interest and set up meetings or appointments for the company’s sales team to close deals. They are responsible for building relationships with potential customers, understanding their needs and pain points, and determining whether they are a good fit for the company’s offerings.
Top Skills of an SDR:
The best sales development representatives (SDRs) possess a combination of skills that enable them to excel in their roles. Here are some of the top skills that the best SDRs have:
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skill
- Persistence and resilience
- Good time management
- Curiosity and a willingness to learn
- Attention to detail
- Adaptability and flexibility
How a CM Fits into This:
It starts with you understanding your goal as a Collab Manager. It is to:
- Sell a product, brand and promise
- Generate Targeted Leads — into the Discord Servers of our clients
- Generate Interest in the Product you are selling
- Set up Different tactics to execute Numbers 1–3. Via GAs, AMAs, Metaverse Events etc!
Your Job is not to close leads except you are part of the sales team. As a CM, you are part of the marketing team, not the sales team.
Conclusion:
Remember this Always: The primary goal of an SDR is to generate interest and set up meetings or appointments for the company’s sales team to close deals. They are responsible for building relationships with potential customers, understanding their needs and pain points, and determining whether they are a good fit for the company’s offerings.
SDRs are essential to a company’s sales strategy, as they help to build a pipeline of qualified leads and ensure that the sales team is spending their time effectively, focusing on high-value opportunities. They often work closely with marketing teams to develop targeted outreach campaigns and messaging that resonate with potential customers.
As a Collab Manager, This is your role as well.
