The Software Role You Didn't Know Exists: No Coding Required
Written on
Chapter 1: What Is a Customer Success Manager?
Have you ever faced the awkward moment of explaining your job at a family gathering? I certainly have. I used to mumble, “I work in software sales, but not really.” It felt uncomfortable because my profession isn’t easy to articulate. Although I’m in the software industry, I don’t write code.
So, what exactly do I do?
I serve as a customer success manager, which is distinct from customer support, though the two are often mixed up.
Section 1.1: Clarifying the Distinction
Customer success focuses on ensuring that users effectively adopt and utilize products. Imagine teaching your grandparents how to navigate their iPhones and set up their home screens.
On the other hand, customer support deals with troubleshooting and resolving issues that arise with the product—like helping your grandparents reset their router when the WiFi goes down.
Both roles are crucial in the software landscape, yet one leans more towards technical knowledge, while the other emphasizes technical skills. You don’t need to be familiar with coding languages to pursue a career in customer success. Instead, you should excel in communication, grasp technical terminology, and possess a bit of sales acumen.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Nature of the Role
So, if coding and selling aren’t part of the job, what does a customer success manager actually do? Our main goal is to retain customers by demonstrating the product’s value.
In my role, I ensure that clients stay engaged throughout their contract. A touch of sales insight helps me recognize that customers are unlikely to renew if they aren’t fully utilizing the product.
Consider this analogy:
If you have a Netflix subscription, what keeps you subscribed? Likely the appealing shows, user-friendly interface, and affordable pricing. That’s what you perceive as valuable.
I aim to create a similar perception for businesses. Once a client purchases our software, I train their team on how to incorporate it into their daily operations and continuously highlight its value throughout the contract period.
If you decide to cancel Netflix, it usually indicates that you no longer find it valuable—even though it may still be beneficial for others. The key is to ensure businesses recognize how our software aligns with their needs, and successful partnerships rely heavily on effective communication.
In simpler terms, my job is to assist clients in adopting software products without any coding being involved.
Section 1.2: No Experience? No Problem!
You don’t need prior experience in customer success to qualify for this position. Instead, leverage the skills you already possess.
For instance, if you come from a media background, you could explain how you engaged an audience by delivering valuable content. If you have experience in education, you might describe how you simplified complex lesson plans.
It’s all about viewing your experience through a different lens.
I transitioned from broadcast journalism to the software sector, and it was one of the best choices I ever made. You can make a similar change too.
This often-overlooked career path could be a perfect fit for you.
Chapter 2: Exploring Career Opportunities in Customer Success
Discover the top five six-figure tech jobs that don’t require coding skills. This video outlines various roles that allow you to thrive in the tech industry without needing programming expertise.
Learn about IT positions that either require minimal coding skills or none at all. This video breaks down job opportunities that could be perfect for you if coding isn’t your strong suit.