I naively took a sales/marketing job last year that has gone south. I knew that the company was struggling but some promises were made to fix the biggest issues (mainly technology) and I grossly underestimated how badly things were with the new company. I innocently assumed and hoped that company was preparing to rebound and I would join them on the ride back up. I ignorantly figured that all companies were more or less the same and the pay was great and provided an opportunity to move back home. Unfortunately the technology and service issues have not been fixed and sales have gotten worse, especially in my territory and region which have been struggling for 6-7 years. In fact, shortly after I was hired and moved my family (at my own expense), the entire team was let go and asked to reapply for their positions. Luckily I was able to stay with the company (a very generous associate took early retirement to help me and my family) but I don't think I will be that lucky this time.

My results have been abysmal due to poor pricing, technology, and an average product. I realize my job is to sell but my sales techniques in the past have always focused on great service and relationships knowing these will bring long term success. I can't get the small wins or opportunities to serve with my current job and am struggling to re-build relationships or momentum. The executives will be visiting many of my clients and while I don't feel that I am responsible for most of the companies current failings the clients are frustrated and the executives are looking for fall guys and it's not going to be them. It appears that my boss has already been put on some sort of probation.

I know people in the industry and could probably land on my feet but that may require a significant pay cut (50% or so) on an already tight budget. A new job would likely require a 2nd new job as well to try and make ends meet.

As I see it I have one week to fix things or more realistically show that I have a great plan in place to get things fixed. Mainly I just feel discouraged and defeated but need to keep my chin up in an effort to support and help my family.

What great advice do you have CougarBoard?