Beginning the setup of your Amazon seller account can be an intimidating process.
Questions may flood your mind: How should we handle product fulfillment? What’s the deal with collecting sales tax? How do I even list a product? And what about setting up effective advertising? The reality is it’s perfectly normal to have only some of the answers right away.
In such a complex and vast marketplace, seeking guidance is natural. This is where hiring an Amazon expert or an Amazon account manager comes into play. These professionals can serve as your navigators through the intricacies of Amazon, providing the expertise and support you need to build and manage a successful presence on the platform.
In this guide, we’ll explore why hiring an Amazon seller account manager is essential for your success on the platform.
Who are Amazon Account Managers, and How do they Help?
An Amazon account manager is a seasoned professional who plays a pivotal role in helping you navigate and excel in Amazon eCommerce. They are your trusted partner in setting up, strategizing, and executing successful campaigns on the Amazon platform.
Let’s have a look at what they bring to the table:
Getting Started on Amazon
If you’re stepping into the Amazon marketplace, an Account Manager is your trusted guide. They assist with the nitty-gritty of setting up and managing your listings. From SEO and keyword research to ensuring a seamless product launch, they cover all bases.
Strategic Guidance
Your Amazon account managers are like your strategic compass. They work closely with you to understand your unique business objectives and tailor a comprehensive strategy to achieve them. For instance, if you aim to increase sales in a specific product category, they’ll craft a roadmap to make it happen.
Expert Advice
These professionals are well-versed in the nuances of Amazon’s ecosystem. They provide expert advice on everything related to your Amazon account. Whether it’s optimizing product listings for better visibility, understanding Amazon’s complex algorithms, or making data-driven decisions, they’ve got you covered.
Relationship Building
An Amazon account manager is not just a service provider; they’re your partner. They manage and nurture relationships with marketplace accounts, ensuring your business thrives on Amazon. They act as a bridge between you and Amazon, ensuring your concerns and queries are promptly addressed.
Listing Optimization
They’re the wizards behind optimizing your product listings. Analyzing keywords, images, and content ensures your products rank higher in search results. For example, if you’re selling eco-friendly kitchenware, they’ll make sure your listings are optimized for relevant keywords like “sustainable cookware.”
Data Analysis
Amazon account managers dive deep into your business data. They analyze sales trends, inventory levels, and customer behavior. For instance, if they notice a spike in demand for your products during the holiday season, they’ll help you prepare by optimizing your inventory.
Multichannel Management
Beyond Amazon, they can also assist with your presence on other eCommerce channels. They manage your online product listings, handle website management, and ensure your social media updates align with your overall strategy.
International Expansion and Diversification
Consider expanding to new marketplaces or diversifying your product offerings as your business grows. Account Managers offer invaluable insights into Amazon’s global selling and the intricacies of international sales.
Issue Resolution
When challenges arise, an Account Manager is your troubleshooter. Whether resolving account suspensions, addressing negative reviews, or filing reimbursement claims, they navigate Amazon’s complex regulations on your behalf.
In other words, an Amazon account manager takes the burden off your shoulders. They combine strategic thinking with hands-on execution to streamline your Amazon operations, allowing you to focus on growing your business while they handle the complexities of the platform.
Where to Hire Amazon Account Managers?
You have several options for securing a dedicated account manager to assist with your Amazon business:
Independent Managers: Independent Amazon account managers can be found on freelancing websites and platforms. These individuals often offer specialized services tailored to your specific needs. Hiring an independent manager allows for a more personalized approach.
Amazon Agencies: Amazon agencies are companies that specialize in providing Amazon seller account management services. They typically have teams of professionals with diverse skills and experience to handle various aspects of your Amazon business. Agencies can offer a comprehensive solution for your Amazon needs.
Strategic Account Services (SAS) Core Program: Amazon’s Strategic Account Services Core Program is an initiative by Amazon itself. It assigns SAS core account managers to Amazon vendors to help them excel in their businesses. You need an active professional selling account on Amazon to be eligible for this program. Amazon’s own program can provide direct support from dedicated account managers familiar with the platform’s intricacies.
Each option has its advantages and considerations. Independent managers offer flexibility and personalized service, while Amazon agencies provide access to a team of professionals. The SAS Core Program is an official Amazon program that can provide direct support, but eligibility criteria may apply.
What Factors to Consider When Hiring An Amazon Seller Central Account Manager?
Hiring the right Amazon Account Manager is crucial for the success of your Amazon business. To ensure you choose a qualified and capable professional, consider the following qualifications and criteria:
Experience with Amazon: Look for candidates with a proven track record of managing Amazon seller accounts. Experience with different types of Amazon businesses (e.g., third-party sellers, vendors, agencies) is a plus.
Understanding of Amazon Policies: Your Account Manager should deeply understand Amazon’s policies, rules, and guidelines. They should help you stay compliant and avoid potential issues.
Strategic Thinker: An effective Account Manager should be a strategic thinker. They should be able to develop long-term strategies for your business, set achievable goals, and adapt to changing market dynamics.
Data Analysis Skills: Your Account Manager should be proficient in analyzing and using data to make informed decisions. This includes monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and adjusting strategies accordingly.
Listing Optimization Expertise: Look for candidates with experience optimizing product listings. They should understand the importance of keyword research, content optimization, and image enhancement to improve product visibility and sales.
Advertising Proficiency: If advertising is a part of your Amazon strategy, seek an Account Manager who is well-versed in Amazon advertising platforms (e.g., Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands). They should be able to create and manage effective ad campaigns.
Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential. Your Account Manager should be able to clearly convey strategies, updates, and recommendations to you and your team.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Amazon can present various challenges. Your Account Manager should be a problem solver who can address issues such as account suspensions, negative reviews, and inventory management.
Certifications: While not mandatory, certifications such as Amazon Advertising accreditation or Amazon Web Services (AWS) certification can signify expertise.
Adaptability: Amazon’s policies and algorithms change frequently. A qualified Amazon Account expert should be adaptable and capable of staying updated with Amazon’s evolving landscape.
Transparent Reporting: Ensure that the Account Manager provides regular and transparent reporting on the performance of your Amazon account, including sales, advertising metrics, and critical insights.
Industry Knowledge: It’s beneficial if the candidate understands your industry and target audience well. They should be able to tailor strategies accordingly.
Budget Management: If managing advertising budgets is part of their role, they should demonstrate proficiency in budget allocation and optimization.
Familiarity with Tools: Amazon Seller Central, third-party analytics tools, and inventory management software can be advantageous.
So, choose an Account Manager whose expertise aligns with your business goals and needs.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Account Manager for Selling on Amazon?
The cost of hiring an expert for Amazon account management can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the scope of services, the experience and expertise of the manager, and the specific needs of your Amazon business.
Here are some key factors to consider when determining the cost:
Scope of Services: The range of services Amazon Account Managers provide can vary. Some may offer comprehensive account management services, including listing optimization, advertising management, and inventory control, while others may specialize in specific areas. The more extensive the services, the higher the cost.
Experience and Expertise: Highly experienced and specialized Amazon Account Managers may charge higher fees. Their expertise can be precious for optimizing your Amazon operations but may come at a premium.
Monthly Retainer vs. Commission: Some Amazon Account Managers charge a monthly retainer fee, a fixed monthly cost for their services. Others may work on a commission-based model, earning a percentage of your sales or advertising spend. The choice between these models can impact your overall cost.
Business Size and Complexity: The size and complexity of your Amazon business can also influence the cost. If you have a large inventory and a high sales volume, you may require more extensive management, which can result in higher fees.
Additional Costs: Besides the manager’s fees, consider any additional costs associated with software tools or advertising budgets that the manager may recommend or manage on your behalf.
Contract Terms: The length of the contract or agreement with the Amazon Account Manager can affect pricing. Longer-term contracts offer cost savings compared to short-term engagements.
Geographical Location: The cost of hiring an Amazon Account Manager may also vary based on their geographical location. Managers in regions with higher living costs may charge more for their services.
Ultimately, the cost of hiring an Amazon Account Manager is an investment in optimizing your Amazon operations and potentially increasing your sales and profitability. It’s essential to balance the services you need and your budget to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Hiring an Amazon Account Manager is not just an option but a strategic imperative for sellers on Amazon. Their expertise, dedication, and ability to navigate Amazon’s complexities can significantly impact your sales, brand visibility, and long-term success on the platform. Consider the benefits outlined in this guide, and decide to boost your Amazon selling operations by hiring a skilled Account Manager.
