ClearPath Conversations

03 - What Does a CSM Actually Do?


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Most CSM job descriptions are a mess - half Sales, half Support, half Product Management, and somehow they still leave out what you actually do day-to-day.

In this episode, I break down the five real roles every strong CSM plays:

  • The Translator - Bridging the gap between product, sales, support, and customer expectations
  • The Stabilizer - Managing the energy and temperature of difficult situations
  • The Strategist - Planning ahead with account success plans, stakeholder mapping, and proactive risk mitigation
  • The Firefighter - Triaging escalations and stopping the bleeding when things go sideways
  • The Advocate - Balancing customer needs with company sustainability


I also cover what you don't own (even though it feels like you do), the mindset shift from "helper" to "leader," and why the best CSM work is invisible - until it prevents a churn.

Whether you're new to Customer Success or 10 years in, this episode will help you identify gaps, prioritize your time, and stop reacting your way through the job.

Key Takeaways:

  • The five core responsibilities of a high-performing CSM
  • How to lead without a title
  • Mark's Rule: "Proactive feels like overkill until reactive feels like drowning"
  • Tools and tactics that actually move the needle


Resources:Download the companion checklist at ClearPathCX.com.

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ClearPath ConversationsBy ClearPath CX