Landing a sales job is no easy task. It takes hard work, determination, and, most importantly, avoiding common mistakes. However, that can easily cost you the job of your dreams. Especially since you only have 7 seconds to make a good first impression. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 9 sales interview mistakes that you’ll want to avoid if you want to score your next dream job.
Not Researching Anything About The Job
During a sales interview, the interviewer wants to see that you have researched the company and the specific job opening. This shows that you are interested in the company and that you are a good fit for the position. If you’ve decided to do little research, the interviewer will likely think that you are not interested in the job. They’ll likely note that you are not a good fit for the company.
Companies can tell when an employee has not done their research. Especially since it’s one of the most common sales interview mistakes. This can come off as unprofessional and make it seem like you do not really care about the job.
To avoid this:
- Take some time to research the company beforehand.
- Look at their website, read any news articles about them, and try to find out as much as you can.
- Read the job description carefully and see if you have the skills and experience that they are looking for. If you do not have all of the qualifications, that’s okay.
- Just be prepared to explain why you would still be a good fit for the job.
Having this knowledge will help you answer any questions that the interviewer may have. Plus, it will make you seem more interested and excited about the job.
Arriving Late To The Interview
Arriving late for a sales interview is a huge mistake. This sends the message that you are not reliable and that you do not value the company’s time. It also lets them know that you’re not great about your time management skills, which are needed for sales positions Of course, there are exceptions when you may have an actual emergency. If you are running late, call ahead and let the interviewer know, so they are not left waiting for you.
To avoid being late altogether, make sure to allow yourself enough time to get to the interview location. Map out the route ahead of time and factor in traffic, parking, and any other potential delays. It is always better to arrive early than to arrive late. This way, you will have time to collect your thoughts and calm your nerves before the sales interview begins.
Forgetting To Smile
While this may seem like a small sales interview mistake, it can actually make a big difference. When you walk into the room, the interviewer should see that you are happy to be there and that you are excited about the opportunity to speak with them. If you forget to smile or have a blank expression on your face, this will send the message that you are not interested in the position. In fact, 40% of interviewers thought that a lack of a smile is a good enough reason not to consider a candidate.
This sales interview mistake is easy to avoid, so make sure to put on a smile as soon as you walk into the room. It’s important to note that this doesn’t mean you need to fake a smile or be overly friendly. Just act like yourself and let your genuine excitement for the opportunity show.
Answering Questions With Only “Yes” Or “No”
When you are answering questions during the sales interview, avoid giving short, one-word answers. This makes it seem like you are not really interested in the position or that you do not have much to say. Instead, take the time to explain your answers fully and give examples when necessary. This will show that you are engaged in the conversation and that you have thought about the question carefully.
For example, if the interviewer asks you why you are interested in the job, do not simply say, “I like sales.” You should instead take the time to explain what it is about sales that you enjoy and how your skills would benefit the company. This will give them a better sense of who you are as a person and whether or not you would be a good fit for the job. Remember, the interview is your chance to sell yourself, so make sure you take advantage of it.
Failing To Ask Questions
Toward the end of the sales interview, you will usually be given a chance to ask any questions that you may have. This is your opportunity to learn more about the company and the specific job opening. It also shows that you are interested in the position and that you have been paying attention to the conversation. You’ll want to avoid asking any questions that could have been easily answered by doing a bit of research on the company ahead of time. For example, you would not want to ask about the company’s history or what they do because this information is readily available online.
Instead, focus on asking questions that will give you a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities of the job or what the company culture is like. This will show that you are truly interested in the position and that you have done your research. Asking questions is also a great way to build rapport with the interviewer and make a good impression. Some questions you may want to ask include:
- How soon are you looking to hire someone for this role?
- What kind of training will I receive?
- Can you tell me more about the company’s sales goals?
- What does advancement look like at this company?
Asking questions also shows that you have done your research and that you are truly interested in the opportunity. So, make sure to take advantage of this sales interview mistake and come prepared with a few questions of your own.
Not Dressing The Part
When you are going on a sales interview, it is important to dress the part. This means wearing professional clothing that is appropriate for the industry. For example, if you are interviewing for a sales position at a bank, you would want to wear a suit or dress shirt and pants. However, if you are interviewing for a sales position at a more casual company, such as a start-up, you may be able to get away with wearing business casual attire.
The bottom line is that you want to make sure your appearance is professional. You want to look like someone who would be a good fit for the company. This sales interview mistake is often overlooked but makes a big difference in how you’re perceived. If you’re confused about what to wear, research the company’s dress code ahead of time. If you still can’t figure it out, err on the side of caution and dress more formally.
Saying Negative Things About Previous Employers
When asked about your previous employers, it is important that you speak positively about them. If you say negative things or badmouth your previous employer, this will reflect badly on you. It may even make the interviewer question your character. Even if you had a bad experience at your previous job, find something positive to say about the company. You may want to even rephrase the question in a way that allows you to avoid saying anything negative.
For example, if you are asked why you left your previous job, you could say something like, “I was looking for an opportunity to learn more about sales and to grow my skills.” This answer is positive and shows that you are motivated to further your career. On the other hand, if you say something like, “I hated my boss, and I couldn’t stand working there,” this will reflect poorly on you and may make the interviewer question your ability to get along with others.
Talking Too Much About Yourself
When you are in a sales interview, find a balance between talking about yourself and asking questions. If you spend the entire sales interview talking about yourself, the interviewer may question your listening skills. However, if you spend the entirety of the sales interview asking questions, this may make the interviewer think that you are not truly interested in the position or that you’re trying to avoid answering questions about yourself.
The key is to find a balance between the two and to focus on engaging in conversation with the interviewer. Try to ask questions that are relevant to the position you are applying for. That will give you more insight into the company or the role. At the same time, make sure to share information about yourself and your sales experience. For example, if you are asked to describe your sales experience, you could say something like, “I have been working in sales for three years and have experience managing a sales team. I am passionate about sales and always looking for new ways to improve my skills.” Then you could follow up with a question like, “What type of sales experience are you looking for in a candidate?”
Not Having An Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a brief, persuasive speech that you can use to describe your skills and experience. This sales interview mistake is often made by candidates who assume that the interviewer will already know everything about them. However, even if the interviewer does have a copy of your resume, it’s always a good idea to have an elevator pitch prepared. This will help you to stand out from the other candidates and to make a good impression on the interviewer.
When preparing your elevator pitch, try to focus on what makes you unique and why you would be a good fit for the sales position. For example, you could say something like, “I am an experienced sales professional with a proven track record of success. I am passionate about sales and have a strong interest in fashion. I believe that my skills and experience would make me a perfect fit for your company.” Remember, your elevator pitch should be brief, so make sure to keep it under two minutes.
Conclusion
By avoiding these sales interview mistakes, you will be on your way to impressing the interviewer and landing the sales job. Just remember to be prepared, follow our tips above, and have an elevator pitch ready. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to make a great impression in your sales interview.
If you’re looking for your next career move, contact us today at Sales Recruiters Denver, or browse through open jobs to find the position of your dreams!