Working in the sales industry can be a highly challenging and also rewarding experience. Potential employers often look for sales reps who can produce fast results and bring in the most returns. To do this, the search process often includes a thorough interview process that seeks to find the best individuals with the best skills.
Common traits of top performing salespersons include modesty, conscientiousness, achievement orientation, curiosity and a lack of self-consciousness.
During the sales interview process, potential employers often look for individuals who are inquisitive and active with clients. Individuals should also be humble yet not egotistical.
Here are examples of some common sales interview questions you can expect during the interview process:
Tell me about yourself?
This question is often a stumbling block for many people. To avoid this, the best thing to do is focus on personal qualities such as your strengths and skills that make you well-suited for the job.
Why do you want to work in sales?
The interview will try to gauge your level of interest and passion for the job. When answering this question, focus on your sales history and passion. Include a success story and tie it in with why you still want to work in the sales industry.
What motivates you to sell?
This is often a question that sets the stage for highlighting your positive attributes as a sales representative. The question is designed to allow you to provide insight into your character. It lets your interviewer know whether you’ll be a good fit in the company and how to motivate you if you’re offered the job.
How do you generate, develop and close sales opportunities?
This question aims to uncover the maturity and suitability of your sales process. Be specific about your process, by addressing planning, preparation, targeting, engaging, how you provide solutions, how you resolve objections and how you gain agreement.
When answering any sales interview questions, make sure to be honest and resist the urge to embellish.