sales interview presentation topics

Newly Launched - World's Most Advanced AI Powered Platform to Generate Stunning Presentations that are Editable in PowerPoint

Researched by Consultants from Top-Tier Management Companies

Powerpoint Templates

Icon Bundle

Kpi Dashboard

Professional

Business Plans

Swot Analysis

Gantt Chart

Business Proposal

Marketing Plan

Project Management

Business Case

Business Model

Cyber Security

Business PPT

Digital Marketing

Digital Transformation

Human Resources

Product Management

Artificial Intelligence

Company Profile

Acknowledgement PPT

PPT Presentation

Reports Brochures

One Page Pitch

Interview PPT

All Categories

Why is a Sales Presentation Interview Crucial?

The sales presentation interview is essential because it is a yardstick for a candidate's capacity for clear communication, rapport-building with clients, and deal-closing. How a candidate positions a product or service can make all the difference in convincing potential clients to choose their offers over rivals in the competitive sales world. A strong sales presentation indicates the candidate's mastery of the art of persuasion, their comprehension of the audience's demands, and their capacity to customize their pitch accordingly.

As these are essential qualities for successful salespeople, candidates must demonstrate their charm, product expertise, and sales acumen. Candidates can show off their abilities to think quickly under pressure, modify their strategy in response to audience input, and confidently handle objections during this interview. A strong sales presentation can make an excellent first impression on recruiters and pave the way for a candidate to succeed in a sales position.

Why Should You Use Sales Presentation Interview Templates?

Candidates can structure their pitch efficiently, resulting in a well-organized and compelling presentation, by using sales presentation interview templates. Instead of wasting time on formatting and content structuring, these templates provide applicants with a starting point and allow them to concentrate on improving their delivery. The templates serve as a guide, including best practices and tried-and-true tactics that have worked well in sales situations.

Candidates may create a polished and expert presentation that persuasively sells their message to prospective employers with the help of these templates. Additionally, templates speed up the preparation process, allowing applicants to invest more time studying and practicing. It encourages consistency in the delivery and ensures that crucial elements of the presentation—like resolving consumer pain areas, showing product features, and offering a persuading call to action.

Template 1: Concept Of Sales Presentation Training PPT

With the help of this template, applicants get to know the principles of sales presentations, including the significance of understanding the audience, outlining specific goals, and using persuasion tactics. It emphasizes the value of careful planning and in-depth product knowledge to provide an effective presentation. Candidates will learn how to organize their material to take the viewer on a discovery journey while showcasing the benefits of the good or service at each stop.

Click to download.

(Optimize your sales strategy with our Sales Activity Report Templates – the ultimate resource to track, analyze, and refine your sales efforts for measurable growth. Elevate your performance and achieve impactful results with data-driven insights.)

Template 2: Customize Sales Presentation Based On The Audience Training PPT

The template emphasizes the necessity of customizing the presentation to the audience's needs, problems, and preferences. It gives candidates helpful information on performing in-depth research on the target market and enables them to establish more personal connections with potential customers. Candidates can more successfully address particular problems and demonstrate how the product or service satisfies audience needs by personalizing their presentation.

Template 3: Sales Presentation Tips For Salespeople Training Ppt

A thorough manual that provides helpful advice on how to boost self-assurance, deal with anxiety, and make a sales presentation that stands out from the crowd. This template offers guidance on creating an attention-grabbing introduction, keeping the audience's interest throughout the presentation, and making an impactful conclusion. Candidates will learn strategies for combining storytelling, facts, and graphics to give the audience an engaging experience.

Things a Salesperson Should do Before a Sales Presentation

Template 4: Tips For Better Sales Presentation Training Ppt

This template offers tips on how to use visual aids effectively, construct compelling anecdotes, and take advantage of body language to create a riveting and memorable presentation. It also underlines how crucial it is to highlight the advantages of the service and show how it might alleviate the audience's problems. Candidates will pick up helpful advice on how to stay upbeat and excited during the presentation.

Template 5: Tips To Create Effective Sales Presentation Training PPT

Candidates can learn strategies for adequately structuring presentations, showcasing product features, and emphasizing consumer benefits to boost sales. The template emphasizes the value of concise, clear, and clear messaging and helps hold the audience's attention. Candidates can produce presentations that are simple to understand and have an impact on the audience by following these guidelines.

(Explore our Sales Objections and Response Templates as these are your toolkit for addressing concerns, building trust, and driving successful conversions through effective objection handling.)

Template 6: Avoid Delivering Memorized Speech as a Sales Presentation Tip

Information on balancing preparation and spontaneity so that the presentation seems natural and exciting rather than overly planned. This sample offers suggestions for flexibility throughout the presentation to handle any unexpected inquiries or audience responses. Candidates can develop a connection with the audience and create a sincere connection by adopting spontaneity and genuineness.

Sales Presentation Tip Practice but Don’t Deliver a Memorized Speech

Template 7: Tell A Story as a Sales Presentation Tip

This template emphasizes storytelling's ability to engage an emotional audience, strengthening the presentation's relatability and staying power. The positive effects of the product or service on customers can are analyzed using success stories, case studies, or personal anecdotes, which candidates encourage. Candidates can elicit feelings and motivate action from the audience by integrating storytelling elements.

Sales presentation interviews are essential to find top-tier salespeople who can propel company growth and cultivate long-lasting customer relationships. Candidates may improve their pitch, stand out from the competition, and raise their chances of getting their ideal sales job by using these best sales presentation interview templates and understanding the techniques offered. It's essential to remember that a candidate can stand out and succeed in a sales presentation interview by being prepared, flexible, and able to connect with the audience.

FAQs on Sales Presentation

1. what is the sales presentation.

A sales associate may present a good, service, or idea to prospective customers during a sales presentation to convince them to buy something or do something else. Successfully closing agreements requires clearly articulating the value of the offering and attending to consumer concerns. A sales presentation seeks to persuade the consumer to choose the offering by highlighting the good or service's advantages and unique selling points.

2. What should a sales presentation include?

A sales presentation includes a solid call to action with a clear introduction, a practical product demonstration, and addressing the audience's needs. Data, statistics, and testimonies can all help to increase the presentation's impact. Keep the audience's interest throughout the presentation by presenting the information well-organized and excitingly.

3. What are the five steps of a sales presentation?

The five steps of a sales presentation are preparation, rapport-building, presenting the good or service, dealing with objections, and concluding with a compelling call to action. Building trust, communicating the worth of the gift, and convincing the audience to act depends on each phase. In planning, you must recognize the audience to customize the presentation. The salesman must project a cheerful, assured tone during the presentation while concentrating on meeting customer demands and highlighting the product's advantages.

4. How do you prepare for a sales presentation?

Researching the audience, comprehending their problems, practicing the pitch, and developing persuasive visual aids that reinforce the message are all things you should do to get ready for a sales presentation. Candidates should practice their delivery to increase confidence and prepare to address any unforeseen difficulties. Candidates can position themselves as informed and dependable sales experts by being intimately familiar with the product or service and skilled at responding to frequent objections. To continuously enhance and perfect the delivery, seeking feedback and iterating on the presentation is crucial. Adopting templates for sales presentation interviews is helpful because they offer structure and direction for creating an engaging and powerful presentation.

Must-have Interview Format Samples with Templates and Examples
Elon Musk’s Top 10 Most Influential Presentations
Top 15 One-Page Product Review, Tracking and Sales Sheet Templates For Easy Follow-Up
Top 15 Elevator Pitch Templates to Present Extraordinary Business Ideas

Liked this blog? Please recommend us

Must-have Product Page Templates with Examples and Samples

Must-have Minimum Viable Product Templates with Samples and Examples

This form is protected by reCAPTCHA - the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Digital revolution powerpoint presentation slides

Sales funnel results presentation layouts

3d men joinning circular jigsaw puzzles ppt graphics icons

Business Strategic Planning Template For Organizations Powerpoint Presentation Slides

Future plan powerpoint template slide

Project Management Team Powerpoint Presentation Slides

Brand marketing powerpoint presentation slides

Launching a new service powerpoint presentation with slides go to market

Agenda powerpoint slide show

Four key metrics donut chart with percentage

Engineering and technology ppt inspiration example introduction continuous process improvement

Meet our team representing in circular format

Home Blog Presentation Ideas How to Give A Compelling Interview Presentation: Tips, Examples and Topic Ideas

How to Give A Compelling Interview Presentation: Tips, Examples and Topic Ideas

Interview presentations have now become the new norm for most industries. They are popular for sales, marketing, technology, and academic positions. If you have been asked to deliver one for your job interview presentation, prepare to build a strong case for yourself as a candidate.

Giving a general presentation is already daunting. But selling yourself is always the hardest. Spectacular credentials and stellar expertise don’t count much if you cannot present them clearly, which you are expected to do during your interview presentation.

So, let’s prime you up for the challenge. This post is action-packed with job interview PowerPoint presentation examples and will teach you the best way to do a presentation without stressing too much!

Table of Contents

What is an Interview Presentation?

What should an interview presentation look like, how to prepare for a job interview presentation: the basics, define your structure, what slides to include, how to come up with 15-minute interview presentation ideas, how to conclude your interview presentation, how to prepare for an interview: the final tips, what to do at the first interaction with the company elevator pitch for interview, presentation design tips, how to overcome presentation anxiety, tips on maintaining positive body language throughout the presentation, your final act.

An interview presentation, also known as a job interview presentation or interview portfolio, is a formal and structured way for candidates to showcase their skills, qualifications, and suitability for a specific job position during an interview. It goes beyond the typical Q&A format of interviews, allowing candidates to demonstrate their expertise through a prepared presentation. Employers commonly request interview presentations in various industries, such as sales, marketing, technology, academia, and management roles. These presentations serve several important purposes: assessing communication skills, evaluating cultural fit, measuring expertise, analyzing problem-solving skills, and observing presentation skills. While the specific format and requirements of interview presentations vary widely, candidates typically receive guidelines from the employer regarding the topic, duration, and any specific criteria to be addressed. In essence, an interview presentation is an opportunity for candidates to make a compelling case for their candidacy, showcasing their qualifications, experience, and suitability for the job. It requires careful preparation, effective communication, and the ability to engage and persuade the interview panel. A successful interview presentation can significantly enhance a candidate’s chances of securing the desired position.

Think of your interview presentation as a sales pitch.

Your goal is to convince the human resources team that you are the best candidate. The kick here is that you will present to a warm audience – you already impressed them enough with your resume to be called in for an interview. We recommend generating a strategy and presentation based on a 30 60 90 Day Plan .

Employers request interview presentations for a few simple reasons:

To assess your communication and public speaking skills.
To understand whether you are the right cultural fit for the company.
To develop a better sense of how well-versed you are in the domain .

So, your first job is ensuring your presentation fits the criteria. Review the company’s job description again and jot down all the candidate requirements. Take the time to read about their company values and mission. Be proactive and ask precisely what you should cover during your presentation.

Most interview presentations will differ in content and style, but here’s a quick example to give you more context:

[ Use This Template ]

Before you get elbow-deep in designing that PowerPoint for a job interview presentation, do some scouting and reach out to the HR team with a few questions.

You want your presentation to be on-point and technically accurate, so ask your contact the following:

How long should an interview presentation be? Fifteen minutes is the golden standard, though some employers may ask to cut it down to just 10 minutes or extend it to 20-25.
Who exactly will be present? A conversational presentation would undoubtedly be welcomed by your peers and a team leader but may appear too casual for the senior managers or board of directors.
Does the HR team have a particular agenda in mind? Ask some leading questions to understand what kind of skills/experience they want you to demonstrate. If needed, use a proper agenda slide to include your content.
What’s the IT setup? Should you bring your laptop? Do you need an adapter to connect to their projector? What kind of presentation software have they installed – PowerPoint, Keynote, Google Slides?

Everyone appreciates clarity.

In fact, 89% of professionals state their ability to communicate with clarity directly impacts their career and income.

Your presentation should flow, not rumble. Make sure that your story is easy to follow and your key message is easy to digest, remember, and pass on. If you want people to retain your main points, opt for the following structure:

3D Ladder with arrow PowerPoint infographic

Source: this infographic was created with 3 Steps Editable 3D Ladder Infographic

Here’s an interview presentation example styled in this fashion.

What is: The company’s presence in the Middle East is low. Only 15% of revenues come from the top markets.

Why this matters: The UAE fashion market alone is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21% during the next five years.

What could be: I have helped my previous employer open a flagship store in Dubai, have a lot of industry contacts, and am familiar with the local legislature. Your brand can expect a 17% revenue growth within one year of opening.

You can find even more ideas for designing your presentations in this post .

The choice of slides will largely depend on whether you are asked to talk about yourself or present on some task that you will be required to do as part of your job (e.g., create marketing campaigns).

Most interview presentation templates feature the following slides:

Opening Slide
Quick Bio/Personal Summary
Career Path
Education timeline
Key Skills and Expertise
Case studies/examples of the problems you have solved at your past jobs
Your vision for your future role.
What exactly can you bring in as the candidate (we will come back to this one later on!)

Can’t figure out where to start? Check out our AI PowerPoint generator to create an entire interview slide deck in a couple of clicks, or just download a job interview template . Swipe down to learn from the either of the following job interview presentation samples.

Typically, a talent acquisition team will suggest broad interview presentation topics for you. For example, if you are applying for a sales position, they may ask you to develop a sales presentation for some product (real or imaginary).

Some employers will request a short presentation about you or your hobbies to understand whether you are a good “fit” for the team and share the company’s values. Remember this: your audience will be assessing your aptitude for the role, no matter which topic you were given.

In fact, the interviewers at this point don’t care that much about your experience and skills. They want to know how you can apply those to solve the company’s pressing problems – meet sales targets, improve ROI from social media marketing or help them earn more revenue.

Your job is to make an educated guess… predict the most wrenching problem, and pitch your “magic pill” during your interview presentation.

I know what you are thinking – but how do I find the right opportunity/problem to tackle?

Businesses across different industries pretty much struggle with the same generic challenges related to either of the following:

Your topic should clearly address one of these areas and offer a potential roadmap for solving some specific problem within it.

Let’s say that you are applying for a sales role. Clearly, you will want to tackle the “customer audience” set of problems. To refine your idea, ask yourself the following questions:

Can you think of a new customer segment the company should target? Who are they, what do they want, and how you can help the company reach them?
Do you have a network or experience to identify and pitch new clients?
Can you think of new collaboration opportunities the company could use to attract a whole new niche of customers?

So a sample job interview presentation about yourself should include a series of Problem & Solution Slides , showing exactly how you will address that issue if the company hires you.

Here’s another PowerPoint presentation about yourself for job interview example worth using – incorporate a case study slide, showing how you have successfully solved a similar problem for your past employer.

Wrap up your presentation by laying out the key steps the company needs to take. Give an estimate of how much time it will take to tackle the problem, and what changes/investments should be made.

Your conclusion should tell this: “Hire me and I will solve this problem for you in no time!”.

How to Prepare for an Interview: The Final Tips

Source: StockSnap

Dial-Up Your Power

Take a deep breath and strike a “power pose” before you enter the room.

According to her research, power posers performed better during interviews and were more likely to get hired. Another study also proved this theory: unaware judges gave major preference to the power-primed applicants. So yes, pep talks do work!

The first 30 Seconds Count The Most

What you do and say in the first 30 seconds will make the most impact. Psychological research shows that listeners form opinions about your personality and intelligence in the first 30 seconds of the interview. So be sure to start with a compelling opening, framing exactly how you want to be perceived.

Try To Appear Similar to the Interviewer

Lauren Rivera, a professor from Kellogg School, came to the conclusion that interviewers tend to hire “people like them” .

Even the top human resource management folks fall for this bias and tend to base their evaluations on how similar a candidate is to them, instead of trying to decide whether the person’s skill set is ideal for the position. So to be liked, you will have to act relatable.

Back up your statements with facts

To deliver a presentation with a bang, you can make use of pre-analyzed facts to support your hypothesis. Make sure to do your homework, study the company and its competitive landscape, and do the professional work you would have done as a member of the company crew. At some point in your interview presentation, you go “off the script”, and pull out a bunch of documents, supporting your statements.

For example, you can give away a quick plan indicating a number of things the employer could do today to save money, even if they don’t hire you. Make sure to be meticulous; your work will speak for you. But giving away this work will show the employer your commitment, skills, and focus.

And that’s exactly how to make your job interview presentation stand out. Most candidates just ramble about their skills and past career moves. You bring specificity and proof to the platter, showing exactly what makes you a great hire fair and square.

Within a selection process, there are many interactions (interviews and dynamics) that you must successfully complete in order to be the next selected candidate. One of your objectives in this first interaction should be to generate a great first impression in the company. For this, we recommend using the Elevator Pitch for Interview technique.

The Elevator Pitch for Interview will allow you to present yourself in a solid and professional way in less than 60 seconds, in order to generate an outstanding first impression.

What is an Elevator Pitch for an Interview?

The Elevator Pitch is a condensed speech about yourself that aims to generate engagement in no more than 60 seconds. Entrepreneurs widely use this type of speech to persuade investors and job seekers in job interviews. Your Elevator Pitch for the Interview will generate a great first impression to the employer and be better positioned than other candidates. If your goal is to make a convincing presentation in a job interview, your Elevator Pitch needs to be well crafted.

How to Make an Elevator Pitch for an Interview

There are many ways and tips to make an excellent Elevator Pitch for a job interview. This section provides you with essential advice to make your interview more convincing.

Identify your target

You need to know to whom you are presenting yourself. Is it a recruiter? or an executive?. Your Elevator Pitch will change depending on the receiver.

Comprehend the needs of the hiring company

Make an advanced study about the search requirements for the job position. Identify your strengths. Highlight them. Demonstrate your experience. Identify your weaknesses. Show that you have a profile that seeks constant improvement

Create a clear, concise, and truthful Elevator Pitch

This point is critical. Your Elevator Pitch must be clear, concise, genuine, and impactful. Go from less to more. Generate a real hook in your audience. Try not to go off-topic or talk too much, and be brief in everything you want to say.

Speak naturally and confidently

If you can speak fluently and naturally, you can show a confident profile. Show you know what you are talking about and what you want.

Elevator Pitch Example for Job Seekers

This section illustrates an Elevator Pitch Example targeted to Recruiters. It will help you put together your own.

“My name is [NAME]. After graduating with a degree in Business Administration, I have spent the last five years accumulating professional experience as a Project Assistant and Project Manager. I have successfully managed intangible products’ planning, strategy, and launch these past few years. I was excited to learn about this opportunity in Big Data – I’ve always been passionate about how technology and the use of information can greatly improve the way we live. I would love the opportunity to bring my project management and leadership skills to this position.”

Ways to avoid common mistakes in your Elevator Pitch

Keep in mind the following points to avoid making mistakes in your Elevator Pitch for an Interview.

Don’t hurry to make your Elevator Pitch

The Elevator Pitch lasts approximately 60 seconds. Do it on your own time and naturally, as long as you make it clear and concise.

Do not always use the same Elevator Pitch for all cases

One recommendation is not to repeat the same Elevator Pitch in all your interviews. Make changes. Try new options and ways of saying the information. Try different versions and check with your experience which generates more engagement and persuasion.

Make it easy to understand

Articulate your pitch as a story. Think that the person in front of you does not know you and is interested in learning more about your profile. Don’t make your Elevator Pitch challenging to appear more sophisticated. Simply generate a clear and easy-to-understand narrative, where all the data you tell is factual and verifiable.

Don’t forget to practice it

Practice is the key to success. Your Elevator Pitch for Interview will become more professional, convincing, and natural with practice.

How to End an Elevator Pitch?

An essential aspect of ending an Elevator Pitch for an Interview is demonstrating interest and passion for the position. You have already presented yourself and established that you have the necessary background for the job. Closing with phrases revealing passion and attitude will help reinforce your pitch.

We recommend you use expressions such as:

“I have always been interested and curious about the area in which the company operates, and it would be a great challenge for me to be able to perform in this position.”

“I have been interested in moving into your company for a while, and I love what your team is doing in IT.”

“I would like to advance my career with an employer with the same values. I know that thanks to my profile and experience, I can make excellent contributions to your company.”

Keep It Visual: Use visuals like images, graphs, and charts to convey your points effectively. Visuals can make complex information more accessible and engaging. Consistency Matters: Maintain a consistent design throughout your presentation. Use the same fonts, color schemes, and formatting to create a cohesive look. Practice Timing: Be mindful of the allotted time for your presentation. Practice to ensure you can comfortably cover your content within the time limit. Engage the Audience: Incorporate elements that engage the audience, such as questions, anecdotes, or real-world examples. Interaction keeps the interview panel interested. Use White Space: Avoid cluttered slides. Use white space to create a clean and uncluttered design that enhances readability.

Presenting during a job interview can be nerve-wracking. Here are some strategies to overcome presentation anxiety:

Practice: Practice your presentation multiple times, ideally in front of a friend or mentor. The more you rehearse, the more confident you’ll become.
Visualization: Visualize yourself by giving a successful presentation. Imagine yourself speaking confidently and engaging the audience.
Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing can help calm nerves. Take slow, deep breaths before and during your presentation to reduce anxiety.
Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your qualifications and the value you bring to the role.
Focus on the Message: Concentrate on delivering your message rather than dwelling on your anxiety. Remember that the interviewers want to learn about your skills and experiences.
Arrive Early: Arrive at the interview location early. This gives you time to get comfortable with the environment and set up any technical equipment you use.

Maintain Good Posture: Stand or sit up straight with your shoulders back. Good posture conveys confidence and attentiveness. Make Eye Contact: Establish and maintain eye contact with your audience to show confidence and engagement. Use Open Gestures: Employ open gestures, like open palms and expansive arm movements, to convey enthusiasm and openness. Smile and Show Enthusiasm: Genuine smiles and enthusiastic facial expressions demonstrate passion and eagerness. Control Nervous Habits: Be mindful of nervous habits like tapping or fidgeting, which can distract your audience and convey anxiety.

Stop fretting and start prepping for your interview presentation. You now have all the nitty-gritty presentation tips to ace that interview. If you are feeling overwhelmed with the design part, browse our extensive gallery of PowerPoint templates and cherry-pick specific elements ( diagrams , shapes , and data charts ) to give your interview presentation the top visual appeal.

Here you can see some 100% editable templates available on SlideModel that could be useful for preparing an interview presentation.

1. Versatile Self-Introduction PowerPoint Template

Use This Template

2. Professional Curriculum Vitae PowerPoint Template

This a sample of PowerPoint presentation template that you can use to present a curriculum and prepare for a job interview presentation. The PPT template is compatible with PowerPoint but also with Google Slides.

3. Modern 1-Page Resume Template for PowerPoint

4. Multi-Slide Resume PowerPoint Template

Like this article? Please share

HR, Human Resources, Interview, Job, Resume Filed under Presentation Ideas

Filed under Business • April 17th, 2024

How To Make an Interview Portfolio (Examples + Templates)

Transform your job seeking experience into a smooth process by learning how to make an interview portfolio. Guide + Examples here.

Filed under Business • December 7th, 2023

The Communication Plan Template

Discover why communication plan templates are a key asset for strategic structuring of information in organizations. Learn how to build one here.

Filed under Business • September 8th, 2023

The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) | Key Components and Examples

Employee Value Proposition refers to how organizations are able to attract skilled employees in a competitive job market through the corporate culture, and benefits offered by them. In this article we explore what EVP is and how to formulate a strong EVP.

One Response to “How to Give A Compelling Interview Presentation: Tips, Examples and Topic Ideas”

10 Tough Sales Interview Questions with Answers + Presentation Topics and Tips

Tough Sales Interview Questions and Answers

Sales job interviews can be notoriously challenging and the interview questions asked can be very difficult to answer for the unprepared candidate.

This is partly due to the fact that the nature of the job itself is extremely challenging. The interview is designed to weed out those candidates who frankly will just not be good sales people or good sales managers.

To be successful in a sales career you need certain personality traits such as determination and a thick skin. It is certainly not the type of job that anyone can necessarily do, and sales job interviews will reflect this and be quite demanding and challenging.

Get Your Target Sales Job Faster With InterviewGold

Accurate questions, brilliant answers created for you, expert advice and much more. 92% success.

In This Guide:

Competencies required for a great sales job.

3 Sales Competency Interview Questions and Answers
7 Tricky Sales Interview Questions and Answers
How to Answer Sales Interview Questions Like a Pro

Sales Interview Presentation – Topics and Tips

Common topics for a sales interview presentation, tips when giving an impressive sales interview presentation.

How to Succeed in Your Next Sales Interview

You should expect competency based interview questions in your sales interview whether at representative or manager level.

Here are the key competencies required in sales jobs and competency based and behavioural questions tend to come up exploring these.

Excellent interpersonal skills
Negotiation skills
Good planning and organisation skills
Excellent communication and persuasion skills
Determined and enthusiastic
Ability to build relationships and make sales

Core competencies required in senior sales jobs such as s ales manager include:

Ability to motivate and lead a team
Proven record delivering sales against targets
Your record with delivering against targets
Skills with developing and building relationships with clients
An ability to develop new sales leads, products and markets

For each of the above you should expect competency based questions along with both technical questions exploring your sales experience and traditional questions exploring your reasons for choosing your sales career and reasons for applying. Download our free mini Sales Interview Questions and Answers PDF.

7 Tough Sales Interview Questions + Answers

Here are some sample interview questions for a sales job which can be difficult to answer. Test yourself on and see how you would answer.

Why do you wish to take up a career in sales?

Sample Answer snippet: “ I am drawn to a career in sales because it offers a dynamic and challenging environment where I can leverage my interpersonal skills and passion for building relationships. I thrive on connecting with people, understanding their needs, and providing solutions. Sales allows me to contribute directly to a company’s growth, continuously learn, and achieve both personal and professional success through measurable results .” ( Get personalised answers created for you )

How do you handle rejection, and how does it impact your motivation?

Being rejected is all part of a sales process. The interviewer wants to see that you can bounce back, can overcome the emotional and practical rejection and learn from it.

Answer snippet: “ I view rejection as an inevitable part of the sales process. Instead of letting it demotivate me, I use it as an opportunity to learn. I analyse the rejection, identify areas for improvement, and apply those lessons to enhance my approach. Every ‘no’ is a step closer to a ‘yes .'” ( Get personalised answers created for you )

How would you handle a situation where a customer expresses interest but is hesitant to make a decision?

This is a hypothetical situation asking about your ability to close a deal. Your negotiation and persuasion skills must be shown.

Answer snippet: “ In such situations, I focus on understanding the specific concerns and objections. I address them directly, providing additional information or clarification. By building trust and demonstrating the value of the product or service, I aim to alleviate their hesitations and guide them toward a confident decision .” ( Get personalised answers created for you )

Expand your answer by referring to a recent example where you successfully saved a sale.

Talk us through a time when you had to deal with a difficult or irate customer, and how did you handle it?

This is a typical competency style question and you will be required to give a STAR style answer. Show your ability to remain calm, to listen to the customer, to be patient and ultimately deal with the situation successfully.

Answer snippet: “ Certainly. In a previous role, I encountered a situation where a customer was dissatisfied due to a service issue. I remained calm, actively listened to their concerns, empathised with their frustration, and took immediate steps to rectify the problem. By demonstrating genuine concern and resolving the issue promptly, I turned the situation around, and the customer expressed satisfaction. Let me tell you more about how I did that.” ( Get personalised answers created for you )

How do you differentiate between being persistent and being pushy in sales?

This is a tricky sales question requiring experience.

Answer snippet: “ The key lies in understanding the customer’s needs and respecting their preferences. Persistence involves actively following up and providing valuable information, ensuring that the customer is well-informed. On the other hand, being pushy disregards the customer’s boundaries. I always use clear communication and gauge the customer’s receptiveness, adjusting my approach accordingly to maintain a positive relationshi p.” ( Get personalised answers created for you )

Tell me about a time when you built a lasting working relationship with a customer.

Another competency style question asking about your ability to identify, build and nurture great relationships. Choose an example from your recent or past roles and talk through the steps you took.

Tell us about a time when you lost a contract or client. Why did it happen and what did you learn from the experience.

To present yourself as never having lost a contract or client would come across as lacking in experience. What they are looking for here is not the fact that you lost, that is a common event in sales, but what you learned. They want to see how you developed and became a better sales person as a result.

Answer snippet: “ In a previous sales role, I encountered a situation where we lost a significant client due to unforeseen changes in their budgetary constraints. Despite our efforts to negotiate and tailor our offerings, the client had to make cost-cutting decisions that impacted our contract. From this experience, I learned the importance of proactive communication and building resilient relationships. It instilled in me the need to continually assess the financial health and priorities of our clients. Following the loss, I implemented a more robust client engagement strategy, involving regular check-ins to anticipate any potential challenges and address them collaboratively. This approach not only helped in retaining existing clients but also strengthened our partnerships, preventing similar unforeseen issues in the future. ” ( Get personalised answers created for you )

So how did you get on? How confident would you feel answering? For a whole range of sales interview questions each with winning answers have a look at InterviewGold for Sales the online interview training system for candidates attending sales interviews. It’s online and you can start with it right now.

3 Tough Sales Competency Interview Questions + Answers

Here are some sample competency interview questions and answers for a sales job interview .

I list some technical sales questions later but first have a look at these and consider how confident you are with answering. Remember to use the STAR method or IPAR Formula when answering these questions.

Tell me about a time when your sales skills resulted in a success?

How to answer: This competency based question is a direct but very pertinent interview question designed to assess your mind-set and level of selling skills. Use the STAR or IPAR techniques to structure your example. In your answer show your awareness of the various techniques for selling and how these vary depending on the type of product involved, the kind of business, and the way in which you interact with the customer.

For example, it is recognised that telephone selling is different from the face to face situation, since with the former there are no body language clues available; it is all down to interpretation of the customer’s voice response and careful choice of words. In your interview answer include examples of all techniques you have used and the results achieved. ( Get personalised STAR examples created for you )

Tell us about a time when you overcame an objection when selling. How did you deal with it?

How to answer: Answering objections is a common challenge to sales people and one you should be familiar with. Potential customers may say they don’t need a product or they already have a supplier. These are general objections to which you will have a ready answer in terms of the quality and price of the product you’re selling, for example.

When giving your answer the key is not to admit to inadequacies, but to focus on meeting, and surmounting challenges which form a regular part of the salesperson’s job. An example of a skill, or lesson learned as a result of overcoming a difficulty is seen as indicative of a positive and determined attitude. ( Get personalised STAR examples created for you ) Tell me about a time when you missed your sales targets; what was the cause and what action did you take?

How to answer: Everybody knows that it is the nature of sales to experience fluctuating results due to all sorts of factors beyond one’s control, such as seasonal issues, economic or market drifts, or changes with a product formula. The interviewer is looking for a degree of sales consistency, but also is interested in how you have faced problems and acted to improve your performance where necessary.

Best to show that you understand that a period of low sales can occur and is a challenge to accept and deal with. In your example, show the interviewer that you have the ability to constantly learn from experience and are ready to change tactics to overcome difficult challenges. ( Get personalised STAR examples created for you )

Get Expert Answers Created For You in Minutes

Join InterviewGold today and get expert answers created for you in minutes tailored to your target sales job.

How to Answer Sales Interview Questions

If you have got as far as an interview then you can be reasonably confident of possessing the required skills for the job. Your interview answers need to be honest, open and with strong examples of your achievements backed up with figures.

In the interview there are a number of key traits that I will expect to see in your answers including:

Show me you are a confident salesperson: Confidence and persistence are the most important qualities for a sales person, without which you can never hope to succeed. As well as confidence in yourself you need confidence in the product which should be palpable and obvious.

Demonstrate good listening skills: Having “the gift of the gab” is only part of the salesman’s skills. He should also be a good listener, and take the time to ask a prospect questions about what they want and expect from a product. The ability to read a prospect and establish a dialogue is a necessary skill that be looked for in interview and one you should be ready for.

Sell yourself to me: How persuasive are you when you need to be? If you can sell yourself to the interviewer by convincing them of the skills you have and the advantages you are sure to bring to a company, then you will stick in his mind when it comes to the final selection of a candidate for the job.

Build Strong Relationships: Your interview answers need to show that you can build relationships and network. These are vital skills for a salesperson, because they need to reach as many prospects as possible. Give examples in your answers showing your ability to do this.

Show me you can work well on your own: A salesperson always has targets to meet but is often given free reign as to how to actually achieve them. You need to show that you don’t need your hand held but can confidently work alone, so you should give answers with examples of ways you can do this.

Convince me you will be able to sell my product: You should have done extensive research before your interview about the company and their products so that you know all about them and have some idea of any especially good features and how best the products should be marketed. Demonstrate at this knowledge and enthusiasm in your interview answers.

Get Expert Answers For Your Sales Job

Get Instant Access

The reasons is largely to see how good your communication skills are plus how well can you sell something in a pressurised environment.

You may be given the topic in advance or on the day with a little time to prepare. Structure your presentation logically, incorporating a strong opening to grab attention, a clear message about the subject and a persuasive closing that encourages action.

Generally, the topic will be directly related to the job being recruited for. Here are three common presentation topics asked in sales interviews.

Product Launch Strategy: Develop a presentation outlining a comprehensive strategy for launching a new product. Discuss target markets, competitive positioning, key messaging, and the multichannel approach you would employ to generate awareness and drive sales. Highlight your understanding of the buyer’s journey and how your strategy aligns with customer needs.

Sales Pitch for a Challenging Product: Choose a product that may have unique challenges or faces tough competition. Craft a sales presentation that addresses objections, emphasises differentiation, and effectively communicates the product’s value proposition. Showcase your ability to tailor pitches to various customer segments and overcome potential obstacles.

Customer Success Story: Share a compelling customer success story by presenting a case study. Discuss how you identified the customer’s pain points, presented a tailored solution, and ultimately closed the deal. Emphasise measurable outcomes, such as increased revenue or improved customer satisfaction, to demonstrate your impact on the sales process.

Each of these topics allows you to showcase different aspects of your sales skills, from strategic planning and communication to problem-solving and customer relationship management. Customise the content to align with the company’s industry, products, and sales objectives, demonstrating your ability to contribute to their specific needs.

Tailor Your Presentation: Address potential customer pain points and demonstrate how your product provides solutions. Use relatable anecdotes or case studies to illustrate success stories. Engage the interviewers by incorporating open-ended questions, encouraging dialogue, and showing enthusiasm for the product.

Use Visual Aids: You may be given the opportunity to use aids such as slides or product demonstrations to enhance your points. These can be a great addition; make sure whatever aids you use are clear, concise, and visually appealing.

Confident Body Language: Pay attention to your tone, body language, and eye contact to convey confidence and establish rapport. Practice beforehand to refine your delivery, ensuring you stay within the allotted time.

Address Potential Objections: Your interviewers will test you with objections and questions. Be prepared to address these and adjust your presentation based on the interviewers’ reactions. Showcase your adaptability, emphasising your ability to customize presentations for different audiences.

Conclude with a strong call to action: Invite questions and express your eagerness to further discuss how your skills align with the company’s sales objectives. A well-prepared and engaging sales presentation not only demonstrates your product knowledge but also highlights your ability to connect with customers and drive results.

answer redundancy interview questions easily

Join InterviewGold and answer any sales interview question including competency and behavioural with 100% confidence.

With our online interview training program you will learn how to answer the trickiest questions with ease. Plus you will get detailed sample answers all proven to boost your chances of winning the job.

Best of all, it is tailored to your target career . Log in select sales and then select your role and get accurate questions and answers plus tons of top advice.

Just Published

Why Choose a Career in Accounting and Finance Interview Question: How to Answer Expertly
Take The Next Step in Your Career – 12 Tips to Boost Career Prospects
Job Application Rejected – 6 Most Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Civil Service Job Applications That Stand Out: 24 Top Tips to Help You Pass
Why Choose a Career in the Civil Service? How to Answer Brilliantly Plus Skills and How to Apply

More Free Guides

Competency Based Interviews
Interview Advice
How to Answer
Interview Questions and Answers
Career Advice

Boost Your Chances of Success by 92%

Get your target job faster with InterviewGold. 92% of members felt more confident, better prepared and got jobs.

About InterviewGold

How it works
Competency Based Interview
Civil Service Interview
Medical Interview
Nursing Interview
For Applications

Follow us on:

Meet the Team
Group Memberships
Job Interview Blog
Got a question? See our FAQs page here »
Contact us here »

Sales Presentation for Interview: The Dos and Don’ts

July 31, 2022

When I was first starting out in sales, I remember being so nervous about giving a sales presentation for interview. I would practice over and over again, but as soon as I got in front of the room, all my carefully rehearsed words would fly out of my head.

If you’re feeling similar nerves about an upcoming sales presentation for interview, don’t worry – you’re not alone. With a little bit of preparation though, you can deliver a killer presentation that will impress your interviewer and land you the job.

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when preparing for your big day.

What is a Sales Presentation for Interview?

A sales pitch is a chance for you to demonstrate your selling skills.

A sales interview presentation is a great way to show employers your confidence and competence in speaking about a product or service. By preparing and delivering a well-organized presentation, you can demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and engage with an audience.

A sales interview presentation is an opportunity for a salesperson to demonstrate their selling skills. This is important because selling is a key part of the job.

A sales interview presentation is a key part of the sales process. It allows you to ask the right questions, provide the best answers, and deliver an engaging sales pitch . By preparing for this important step, you can increase your chances of success.

If you want to ace your next sales interview presentation, here are a few steps that will help you get the job offer!

Personality and Professional Image

A huge part of making a successful sales presentation is how you conduct yourself. Building rapport with your prospect, engaging them, and exuding confidence are all important.

When you’re dressing for an interview, it’s important to look professional and put together. Business formal or business casual attire is typically expected, and wearing a hat or lounge clothes can be deal-breakers.

When participating in a video call with potential employers, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and what will be visible on camera. If possible, situate yourself in a professional setting or have your background blurred to avoid any distractions.

Designing The Presentation

Build your own presentation. Don’t be one of the 25% of businesses that use outdated presentation templates.

When you’re creating your presentation, keep in mind that your audience will appreciate a shorter, more concise presentation. The average attention span has decreased from 12 minutes to just 5 minutes over the past decade, so it’s important to make your point quickly and effectively.

Business managers have limited time and may not have the attention span to sit through another presentation or report.

Citing facts is a great way to get someone’s attention, but you need to make sure they’re from a reliable source. While Wikipedia articles can be useful, they can often be edited, so it’s best to use another website.

Visuals are an effective way to convey your message as they are processed by the human brain 6,000 times faster, and are 6 times more memorable than words.

A helpful tip is to limit the information on each slide to three key points. This will make it easier for your audience to understand and remember the points you are trying to make. Introducing each point one at a time will also help with this.

Avoid using many slide decks as this can be a distraction.

After you have completed writing your presentation, it is time to practice. Get colleagues, friends, and family to listen to your presentation after you have memorized the script. This will help catch any errors you may have missed .

They might find mistakes that you missed.

After your practice sessions, ask your audience to quiz you. They should ask tough, probing questions.

This will help you be prepared for anything that is thrown your way during the presentation so that you can stay confident and on track.

Steve Jobs was a master at giving presentations. His audiences would often give him standing ovations at the end of his talks.

Although he was a master of presenting, Steve Jobs would still practice his script for an average of two full days before going on stage. It can be difficult to put that much effort into practicing, but if you can manage to practice for a few hours, you will see significant improvements in your performance.

Preparing for Your Mock Presentation

A great way to prepare for a mock interview is by sending a pre-interview email to the interviewer that confirms the time of the meeting, the topics of discussion, and the goals of the conversation.

Before you begin your presentation, it is essential that you have done your research. Familiarity with the company’s culture and the content of your presentation will help to ensure that you are choosing a relevant company and buyer persona.

Your presentation is what your interviewer is going to be watching. These are some pointers to keep in mind when making your presentation look clean and polished:

5-10 slides maximum
Consistent company theme: logo, color palette, imagery
Have a clear agenda
Minimal wording

The most important step before a mock interview is to prepare. Know everything about your upcoming presentation and be able to answer any question that the interviewer throws at you.

After you feel that you’ve rehearsed enough, continue to rehearse. This will allow you to smoothly and naturally flow through your pitch.

Delivering a Great Sales Presentation for Interview

On the big day, make sure to arrive 15 minutes early. This should give you enough time to check in, set up your presentation, use the washroom, and do anything else before it’s time to meet with your interviewer.

The first minutes of a sales presentation are extremely important. Make sure you prepare both mentally and physically before walking in.

Remember to keep making direct eye contact, and speak in a clear, confident voice. Your sales skills are what have gotten you to this point, so use them to your advantage!

Stand up straight with your arms at your sides , give a firm handshake, smile often, and ask questions to keep your audience engaged .

Discovery Questions During Sales Presentation for Interview

Start your meeting with a few discovery questions that help to uncover a prospect’s needs.

Questions you can ask include:

What problem are you trying to solve ?
What are your goals?
When do you need to achieve these goals?
What is your budget?
Who is involved in the decision ?
Are you exploring other options?
When are you planning to make this decision?
How can I help make this easy?

Making Your Sales Presentation for Interview

During the pitch, make sure you demonstrate the knowledge you have of the products, the company, and the competitive environment. Be prepared with high-level information on what differentiates you from the competition.

When educating customers, it is important to be focused and succinct in your presentation in order to avoid lingering on one topic .

Use the answers you discovered during your research to incorporate into your presentation. Also, be prepared to address any objections to your proposal.

If you are unable to answer a question, do not try to fake it. Simply refer them to someone more knowledgeable or offer to send a reply in a follow-up email.

If It Doesn’t Go Well: Don’t Panic!

No matter how your sales pitch goes, never fear – there’s always something unpredictable in sales!

If it doesn’t go well, don’t panic! Take a deep breath and restart where you left off . You can do this!

Just because you made a mistake doesn’t mean you won’t close a sale. What’s important is how you recover from it.

You can always apologize if you need to and ask for feedback on how you can do a better sales presentation in the future .

Close The Meeting

End your presentation by summarizing your key points and discussing the next steps. Schedule a follow-up meeting to discuss them.

Don’t just leave without a plan for your next interaction with that prospect.

Post-Presentation Feedback

After your pitch, be prepared to receive feedback from your prospect. Be open to their suggestions, and thank them for their input.

If you’re asked for feedback from someone, be as honest as possible. Don’t overpraise yourself, but don’t undersell yourself either.

Send a thank-you email to the prospect that summarizes the conversation you had with them.

When conducting sales demos, you don’t need to have a deep understanding of the product or solutions. Instead, the focus should be on how you demonstrate, how you engage, and your commitment to the interview.

So, don’t worry about not having an in-depth knowledge of the product or service. Just be enthusiastic, and let your natural personality shine.

Conclusion: Sales Presentation for Interview

When it comes to giving a sales presentation for interview, there are some dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind. By following these tips, you can deliver a killer presentation that will impress your audience.

B2B Network Social Business Bill of Rights

Too many B2B network marketers see social media as just another marketing channel, when in reality it is so much more. Social media has surpassed

Cloud Computing vs. SaaS | Mass Cloud Customization

Cloud Computing vs. SaaS Salesforce.com is a successful SaaS company that has taken the idea of mass cloud customization to new heights with their Force.com

What is Annum? The Answer Might Surprise You!

If you’re wondering “what is annum,” then you’ll be surprised to know what it means. This article explains it and how to use it in

SaaS Metrics: How Viral Growth Trumps SaaS Churn

SaaS Metrics: Everybody wants their startup to be successful. The goal of this post is not to complicate the theories behind viral growth, but instead,

Send Us A Message

Discover more from saas partners.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

How to Prep for a Mock Sales Pitch Interview + Creative Ways to Stand out

You can include all the fancy words and accolades you want on your resume. What interviewers want to see is your sales skills in action.

If you’re gunning for a sales job , it’s almost guaranteed you’ll be asked to do a mock sales pitch for your interview. Nail this pitch, and you’ll have a better shot at your desired job.

So, how can you set yourself up for success at your next sales interview? Let’s talk about:

What is a mock sales pitch in an interview & why do you have to do one?
How to prep for the mock sales pitch interview
Three sales pitch examples for your interview: learn how to pitch yourself
Creative mock sales pitch ideas for an interview

By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to walk into that office (or log into that Zoom meeting) with full confidence in your mock sales pitch skills.

What is a Mock Sales Pitch in an Interview & Why Do You Have to Do One?

Your resume and cover letter explain who you are and what you’ve done, and the questions you answer during your sales interview will tell the interviewer more about your personality and whether you’ll fit with the team.

However, watching your pitch is the best way to understand whether you can cut it as a salesperson.

That’s why—nerve-wracking as it may be—most interviewers will have you run through a mock sales pitch during your interview.

Want to ace your sales interview? Here's how to prepare a winning mock sales pitch.

How to Prep for the Mock Sales Pitch Interview

Wondering what to do before your sales interview? Here are five tips to help you prepare successfully and woo your interviewer:

1. Have a Clear Understanding of the Company and the Product

If the hiring manager asks you to do a mock sales pitch in your interview, you should know what you will be selling. In most cases, this means getting to know the product that this company sells.

Of course, the interviewer doesn’t expect you to have expert knowledge of the product, but you should know enough to sell it properly.

So, research the company and the product. Get to know their style and personality through the sales copy on their website. Watch any videos or demos they have that talk about the product. Read what customers say about them. If it’s a SaaS product, start a free trial and get to know it from the inside.

Questions might come up while researching the product. Ask them—shows you’re interested and taking this process seriously. Here’s what Scott Schwartz, VP of Sales at HHAeXchange says about this :

I love when candidates send me questions before the presentation and collaborate with me… it shows me they’re paying attention.

The more you know about the product and industry, the better. So, why not ask someone who knows?

2. Know the Prospects You’ll Be Selling to

Your interviewer wants to know that you have the skills to adapt to their key audience and effectively speak with prospective customers.

So, as you learn about the company, dig into its customer base and get a sense of its ideal customer profile. What kind of companies work with them? Are their customers all in a specific industry? Is the primary target market a particular department inside a company or even a specific role?

When you walk into a mock sales pitch with a clear understanding of the company’s primary customer, you are already setting yourself apart from other candidates. Prove to the interviewer that you can speak quickly with prospective customers. Take time to pick up on the lingo or understand their main concerns.

Again, if you have questions about the company’s customer base, ask before the interview. This will show that you’re willing to put in the extra effort and that you want to reach the customers, not just get the job.

3. Remember to Showcase Your Sales Strengths, not Your Knowledge of the Product

As we said above, no one expects you to be an expert on a product you’ve never sold. Instead, focus on what makes you stand out as a sales rep.

Throughout your sales career , however long or short, you’ve honed your skills and developed your unique selling style. You want to showcase this in a mock sales presentation during your interview.

For example, are you adept at discovering needs? Do you have a unique way of turning objections into benefits ? Are your questions always spot-on? Think of the mock sales pitch as your opportunity to showcase your best skills and prepare accordingly.

4. Think About How You’ll Answer Common Sales Interview Questions

While you can never be 100 percent sure what you’ll be asked during a sales interview, there are a few sales interview questions you will most likely hear in some form or another.

Here are some guidelines on how to answer some of the more common sales interview questions:

Why are you interested in sales?

You want to have a clear reason for being in sales and a strong narrative around it. When I interview people, one of my main questions is why.

For some people, the reason will be that they want to make a lot of money. For others, it will be because they have much experience and insight into the particular industry. After all, they like to communicate with people for many other reasons. There are no good or bad reasons, but they should be your honest reasons, and you should have clarity about this.

Why do you want to sell this product? Why do you want to work with this company?

Believing in a product is a good motivation to sell it, which is why most interviewers will ask some variation of this question. Know something about the product and the target market, and you’ll prove you took the time to develop an interest in this sales job with this company (not just any sales job with any company).

When was the last time you missed the quota?

If you tell an interviewer you’ve never missed quota, they’ll assume you’re lying. Because, let’s face it, all salespeople miss quota at some point. This question aims to poke at your vulnerable spots and see how you handle the pressure. So, talk about missing quota, why you missed it, what you learned from the experience, and how you’ve improved.

What was the most challenging/most significant deal you’ve closed?

This is your opportunity to impress, so prepare beforehand by choosing the right sales story to share. Frame the story well, think about the skills you used to overcome challenges and give real figures of the deal if possible.

5. Come Into the Interview with a Plan of Action

Hiring managers love proactive workers. So, what are your plans starting Day 1 of your new job? How do you plan to start learning the systems and products you’ll be selling? What’s your process for getting to know the unique sales process of this company? How will you get to know the customers and the competitors?

That is true; most companies will have specific onboarding processes that answer these questions for you. But when you come into the interview prepared with a plan of action to get yourself started, you prove you’re ready to hit the ground running and that you’re the type of worker who takes the initiative.

I generally look for people who focus initially on learning. If someone tells me they'd like to start in the new company by talking to different team members to gain internal knowledge, that's always a good thing.

These guidelines are your starting point to prepare for the interview and mock sales pitch.

3 Sales Pitch Examples for Your Interview: Learn How to Pitch Yourself

At some point, the interviewer will probably ask: “So, tell me about yourself.”

This is probably one of the most common (often most dreaded) interview questions. In a sales interview, though, this isn’t just a friendly opener. It’s an opportunity to give a pitch that sells yourself.

So, how can you develop a sales pitch that proves you’re the right hire for the position? Here are three sales pitch examples for an interview that will sell yourself as a sales professional:

1. Use Common Industry Problems to Capture Their Interest

How can you help solve the issues that this company is facing?

You know the everyday struggles and challenges facing sales teams because that’s your world. So, use that knowledge to sell yourself as the solution.

Here’s an example of this from Zety :

Photo credit: Zety

This example pulls at a common industry problem and shows how this salesperson created a solution to that problem.

2. Build a Narrative with Your Experience

It’s no secret that stories are memorable and help get your point across better.

But that’s not an excuse to respond with your life story when asked to tell the interviewer about you.

Instead, frame your career story with a narrative that sells your skills and expertise:

3. Build a Pitch Based on Questions

Creating a sales pitch for an interview is the same as building a pitch to hook new prospects: you need to know their needs before presenting a solution.

So, what are the needs of the company you’re interviewing with? What are they looking for in a sales rep?

Here are some questions you can ask the interviewer to frame your responses to their needs better:

Is this a new or existing position?
What did you like about the last person who filled this position?
What was missing from the last person who filled this position?
What are your goals for a new [role] in relation to the company?
How do you hope to benefit from filling this position?
How is the success of this position measured?

When you ask these kinds of questions, you can connect the benefits of hiring you to their expressed needs.

Creative Mock Sales Pitch Ideas for an Interview

You’ve gone through the basic steps of preparing for an interview, which includes a mock sales pitch.

But how can you take your mock sales pitch to the next level?

Set the Stage Where You Can

Sometimes, you may lack some context during your mock sales pitch. Roleplay can feel stiff and awkward, so embrace and roll with it. Where you lack context, create it.

For example, start the mock pitch with something like this: “I’m going into this pitch assuming you were an inbound lead and that we’ve established basic product fit on an initial phone call.”

Where you can take some control of the situation, do so. This will allow you to pitch more naturally since you’ve been able to set the scene, and everyone knows where they’re coming from.

Focus on Qualification

Qualification is a massive part of the sales process, and the hiring manager will want to be clear that you know how to ask the right questions and weave those answers into your pitch.

So, become good at qualifying your sales leads . Don’t fall into the trap of giving a monologue simply because the situation is a bit awkward. Focus on understanding the prospect's needs and delivering a solution that fits those needs.

And yes, this can even work for the dreaded “Sell me this pen.” Find out why the prospect needs a pen and what they want from a pen, and then you’ll know how to sell it to them effectively .

Let Your Personality Shine Through

You are a unique soul whose style and personality shine through daily as you hit the phone. That should not change simply because you’re doing a mock sales pitch.

The pitch may be fake, but the results are just as real.

So, let your true personality shine through . Be as natural as possible, and make a conscious effort to relax before you begin. Talk to your interviewer like you talk to your prospects every single day. Treat this as a real sales pitch you’re giving to an actual customer, and you’ll feel more like yourself as you pitch.

Remember to Close

While it may seem obvious, you should plan ahead about how you want to close this deal .

In a real-life sales environment, you would have a specific call to action prepared to move this prospect along in the sales process . Since you’re working with an imaginary sales process, set an imaginary call to action for your mock sales pitch and push for that next step at the end.

You would never skip or minimize this part of the pitch in real life, so treat it the same in your mock pitch.

Show How Well You Take and Use Feedback

Many sales interviewers provide feedback and then ask you to give a second mock sales pitch during the interview.

How you respond to this feedback tells interviewers two important things:

Whether you’re humble enough to accept criticism from your boss or peers
How well do you listen to and apply feedback

The hiring manager wants to know if you’re coachable. A salesperson who accepts and applies feedback will quickly adjust their strategies and processes to best suit the customers, not cling to old strategies simply because they’re comfortable with them.

Coachability is an essential quality for a salesperson, so use this opportunity to demonstrate that you can use feedback practically.

Even if the interviewer doesn’t give you feedback, you can proactively ask for their opinion once your mock sales pitch is finished.

Nail Your Next Sales Interview and Mock Sales Pitch

Any job interview can be terrifying, but a sales interview with a mock pitch is even worse.

That said, when you’re well-prepared, you can confidently go into that interview.

Preparation for a sales interview is more than just researching the company and getting to know the product (although that’s important). You need to be ready with the right attitude to sell yourself to the interviewer.

Think of the entire sales interview as just another pitch, and you’ll approach it with the same energy and finesse you use to sell every day.

But there’s always room for improvement.

Want to take your sales pitches to the next level? Take a deep dive into the Ultimate Sales Pitch Guide , with eight chapters of expert advice on developing, scripting, delivering, and following up on a high-performing sales pitch .

One of the most essential skills to master for any sales rep is follow-up. Whenever I interview a sales rep, and I see that they have excellent follow-up skills, that's a big plus. I've written an entire book on the subject, and you can get it free today:

DOWNLOAD THE FOLLOW-UP FORMULA →

Discover our latest free sales tools powered by AI

Learn from the sales pros with our free sales guides.

🪄 Our new AI-powered features are here! Learn more.

No results found.

The best sales interview questions and answers to know for interviews

Hiring salespeople is a challenge. It’s a task that requires finding the best communicators and relationship managers, made all the harder by the fact that salespeople are persuasive and interviewers must work past that to uncover the candidate's personality—not just their memorized answers and sales techniques.

Despite the challenge of finding the perfect salesperson for your team , sales positions are the top hiring priority for talent acquisition leaders.

So, to help you find a sales professional who is right for the role—as well as optimistic, dedicated and a perfect match for your company culture—we’re taking you through the process of hiring salespeople, from the best job interview questions to ask to the traits to look for in the answers. This list of sales interview questions should be helpful for both the interviewer and interviewee.

The best sales interview questions and answers

So, how can you ensure you hire the sales representative with the ideal skillset, experience, knowledge and personality for the needs of your company?

No matter which sales role you’re interviewing for, make sure you include these eight must-have sales interview questions.

1. How would you describe your perfect work environment in sales?

This question helps you uncover the expectations they have of their ongoing workload, their team, the office atmosphere and even the way tasks are planned and delegated.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, it should help you work out how open your candidate is to reflect on their work, upskill on an ongoing basis and lift other team members up as opposed to aiming for individual goals only.

2. How did you land your most successful sale?

With this question, your potential sales rep should light up and confidently go into detail on their strengths and overall sales talent.

A good answer is one that reveals a candidate's unique way of moving a sale forward. This sheds light into their communication skills and the sales strategies they employ.

Make sure to ask follow-up questions to learn more about their mindset throughout that success, as well as the way they dealt with any hurdles and even the way they celebrated this sale.

3. Walk me through your approach to the sales process in your most recent role.

A sales process question is a pure knowledge test. If your candidate keeps talking about all the sales they won in their last job, but can’t name the stages of the process or approximate how long they took, they are likely being dishonest with you. The proof is in the details, so as a candidate make sure you have those metrics on hand and look out for this as an interviewer too.

You’re looking for an answer that clearly shows actions they’ve taken to move their prospect through the entire sales cycle.

4. What is your least favorite part of the sales process?

Honesty is important, and sales is difficult. In their job, they are bound to deal with difficult people, roadblocks in the process, rejections and failed deals.

Even if they genuinely enjoy being part of that process, it’s unlikely they are always 100% motivated and content. When you get an initial answer, make sure to ask follow-up questions to uncover their approach when it comes to difficult moments.

5. How would you describe our company based on what you’ve seen so far?

It’s not only important that the candidate is right for you, you have to be the right option for them, too. Asking this question will ensure that they know what they’re signing up for and the company's products, market and environment they will be surrounded with daily.

It also lets you know they put the work into researching before they walked into the sales job interview, a good sign they’ll know how to research prospects before reaching out or pitching to them.

This answer should reveal if they’re a good fit for your company culture. If the company stands for working smart over working hard, but they believe you encourage working overtime and hustling 24/7, ask yourself whether this person will match with the rest of the team and the company.

6. Why are you looking to leave your current job?

Another question that has no perfect answer, but it’s important for any industry and any type of role.

An answer should reveal the candidate's true intent for a new sales position. It’s a version of ‘tell me about yourself’ that gives you insight into their career goals and thought process.

As long as it’s a positive reason, such as an opportunity to grow or even leaving an environment that wasn’t a fit for their personality or style of work, you’re looking at a great candidate. If they’re talking negatively about their current job or employer, beware.

Make sure to ask more questions if their reason to leave is something that might be the case in your company, too.

7. How do you keep up to date on your target market?

The answer should show you the books, newsletters, courses, blogs and other resources that your candidate frequently consumes to stay on top of the industry. Follow up by asking them how much time they spend each week or month on learning.

8. How do you organize your day?

With this question, you’re looking for the way your candidate structures their tasks, sales meetings , sales calls and their calendar and their sales dashboard in general.

A poor answer is the one that reveals they deal with commitments as they come in, without any logic or a way to prioritize. A great answer will showcase their ability to start each day with a clear plan and reflect back on their tasks and performance at the end of the week. An even better addition would be experience with a CRM that you use in your company to keep sales tasks organized.

Curveball questions: the ones they’re probably not prepared for

Salespeople are well-versed in giving answers they know you want to hear. Why not add these six questions to dig a little deeper into their motivations, experience and self-awareness—and potentially catch them off-guard?

1. What core values should every good salesperson possess?

The answer to this question will help you see how they truly feel about a career in sales , as well as how they think they fit into that role.

2. What is your ultimate career aspiration?

They won’t be in this role and your company forever. How does it play into their long-term plan? Do they believe it will make a difference in their sales career , or is it just a job to keep them busy and pay the bills until something better comes?

3. How do you keep a smile on your face during a hard day?

There’s no way to rehearse an answer to this question. It’s quite a personal question when you think about it; it has a lot to do with their personality and the internal drive to make the most of every situation.

4. How would you explain our product or service in a single sentence?

This is a variation on the earlier question asking for a description of your company, but in a more condensed way, indicating how well what they’ve seen and heard so far has been understood.

5. Tell me a team disagreement you’ve had. How did the team resolve the issue? What part did you play?

Another question that is almost impossible to fake an answer to. When you ask this, your candidate will have to recall their team experiences (negative ones!) and articulate them in a relatively short period of time. It will show their maturity and willingness to find solutions that work for everyone.

6. Have you ever asked a prospect you lost why they chose not to buy? What did you take away from that experience?

This is another way of seeing how your candidate deals with rejection and failure. A great answer will reveal they’re always aiming to learn from unsuccessful deals, as great salespeople ask for constructive criticism and feedback on performance.

Role-specific questions for various sales positions

One important part of building your list of interview questions is adding questions specific to the sales position you’re interviewing for.

Entry-level sales

Sales reps who are relatively new to the world of sales might be quicker to give up on prospects or get unmotivated after losing a sure deal.

They are also just getting comfortable with managing various pipeline stages, qualifying leads and figuring out the quirks of your industry and the typical hurdles in your market. An interviewer can ask these questions to make sure they are on the right track.

What made you want to get into sales?
A prospect you’ve been pursuing goes dark and then eventually tells you they chose a competitor. What do you do?
When do you give up on making a sale?
What are the most important qualifying questions you ask every prospect?
How do you make sure you keep your sales skills up-to-date? What do you want to get better at?
What was your favorite/least favorite thing about your previous role?
Give me specific details on your previous compensation scheme and success record
Tell me a story

The final questions will reveal their motivation to be in this role, as well as their ability to hold a conversation and engage the listener. Details on their past commission structure and their track record are hard to make up, so it’s an easy way to gauge their success in a similar role in the past.

Call center sales

Call center staff often have to deal with a high volume of calls, notes and inquiries on a daily basis. This also makes them more exposed to frustrated prospects or customers, as well as uncomfortable phone conversations.

A friendly and highly detailed approach to this job is paramount. As the interviewer, you could ask:

Are you comfortable with cold calling with a script or without?
What are your favorite questions to ask prospects?
How do you deal with angry prospects on the phone?
How do you research prospects before a call or meeting? What information do you look for?
How do you make sure a task is completed before moving to another?

Account management

Account managers are problem-solvers who play a crucial role in the growth of a business and usually develop long-term relationships with a select amount of valuable customers. They do this by making sales, handling complaints, collecting and analyzing customer data and trying to improve the overall buyer experience.

Successful account managers are communicative, resourceful and highly organized. Recruiters can ask:

Describe how you have built successful relationships with clients or coworkers in the past
What’s the best way to establish a relationship with a prospect?
How do you plan your day to make sure you can deal with multiple client accounts at the same time?
Tell me about a time when you retained a client who wanted to cancel a service or an order
Have you ever improved upon a company process? How?
How would you handle an angry customer?

Sales manager

Sales managers are in charge of hiring, coaching and motivating sales reps that can thrive in their team and grow both as individuals and in a group setting. In other words, it's a lot of responsibilities to carry. A sales manager doesn’t just need to be a talented salesperson, they also need to have a knack for leading and people-managing—a skill even many of the best salespeople don’t have.

When interviewing for this role, make sure you assess the capabilities of your candidate to lead their team in the right direction, help them through rough times and missed targets, and stay composed in any situation. One way to do this is with situational sales interview questions:

If business priorities change, how would you help your team understand and carry out the shifted goals?
I’m a sales rep who has missed quota three months in a row. How would you handle this situation? What would you say to me as a sales leader?
What made you successful as a sales rep? How will your processes inform how you manage your team?
What skills and qualifications would you look for when hiring a sales rep?
What do you think makes for a successful sales rep coaching session?

Customer success manager

Your customer success manager makes sure that your product or service fills the gap between the customer and their success—literally.

It’s a proactive role that reduces customer churn and ensures customers are fully educated about the product and any potential frustrations are prevented before they turn into a customer service issue.

Customer success managers should be able to handle demonstrations and product walkthroughs based on the individual customer requirement. Look out for someone with experience presenting to different audiences and with a skill for summarizing products/services.

Some questions to ask someone interviewing for this role include:

What methods do you use to ensure the customer is successful with their purchase and happy with their experience?
How do you identify opportunities to upsell?
How do you handle multiple competing priorities? How do you determine the most pressing or critical priorities at a given time?
How do you communicate with customers the reasons why you can’t resolve a problem right away?
Have you written step-by-step procedures for customers? Could you share some examples?

You could also ask these sales interview questions when searching for a sales consultant.

Sales operations manager

Sales staff that work in operations management roles help teams reach their full potential by solving process-related problems, implementing tools and strategizing solutions that streamline everyone else’s jobs.

The interviewer wants to learn about their methodologies and past successes in sales operations.

How can a sales operations manager add the most value to their sales team?
As a sales operations manager, what is your management style?
Tell me about a specific way you’ve improved a process for a sales team.
How have you achieved personal development as a sales operations manager in the last 12 months?

Director/VP of sales

A VP of sales plays a critical role in building a resilient sales machine that carries the entire company forward.

Sales directors have to think about the big picture in everything they’re doing while being aware of the day-to-day progress. Some questions to ask this high-level role:

What’s your view on sales tools and technology enabling sales? In which ones would you invest budget and time?
How do you drive change in the organization? What if the company pivoted in a direction and sales had to adapt? What would be your plan?
Given what you know about our company, how big of a sales team do you think we need?
Which functions are you going to build relationships with? How are you going to drive cross-functional support for sales?
How should sales and marketing / account management /customer success work together?

Find the best new hires with this Sales Interview Checklist

Your data is processed according to our privacy notice . You may unsubscribe at any time.

Hiring sales team members

Beyond asking the right sales interview questions and common interview techniques, there are other aspects of a candidate’s work style to look out for. Figuring out what kind of a team player your candidate is should be at the top of your list.

Hiring managers shouldn’t just look for individuals who can confidently sell your product or service alone. They’ll be part of a sales team —a group of people that works towards big-picture, long-term goals for the benefit of the entire company.

An individual sales rep might come across as very skilled at their job: their past sales performance might be out of this world and they can sell literally anything to anyone.

But what happens when this sales rep doesn’t work well with others?

The rest of your sales team might become unmotivated around that team member or even frustrated about the lack of team spirit.

And if your team has been collaborative and productive up to this point, you will suddenly have a group of sales reps that can’t work well together any longer, jeopardizing the entire business.

The traits of a team player in sales

Patrick Lencioni, a bestselling author on sales leadership and team management, covered this exact problem in his book “The Ideal Team Player: How to Recognize and Cultivate The Three Essential Virtues.”

In his book, he lays out three traits that companies need to test for in order to hire team players on a sales team. He even argues that these traits are more important than skills alone. They are:

Humility. Team players don’t have big egos or concerns about status, they point out contributions of others and define success collectively and not individually.
Hunger. Team players are always looking for more—more to learn, more responsibility and they are always thinking about the next step.
Smarts. Team players have a great common sense of people, they ask good questions and deal effectively with others.

The key approach is to always look for all three traits of a team player. If there’s even one missing, that sales rep might throw off the entire team balance, productivity and even trust.

For example, if a sales rep is missing the humility trait, he or she will know how to get what they want, but they won’t mind if it’s at someone else’s expense. On the other hand, if they are missing the hunger to excel, they will easily slack at work—and potentially drag other reps down.

Filling the sales team gaps

Assessing gaps in your current sales team is another important aspect to keep in mind when interviewing for a new sales role. High-performing team players can do a lot more for your sales team than simply collaborating well, they could fill the gaps in skills that your current team is lacking.

Let’s say that your current sales reps aren’t the strongest in following up. They close sales easily (and quickly!) with highly responsive prospects, which helps them hit their targets each time, but their less responsive leads go completely cold quickly.

A new sales team member who is on top of their follow-up game can improve the atmosphere because:

They will likely improve elements like pipeline velocity and deal conversion rate, thus making the team more successful
They can help other team members cultivate that skill and become better sales representatives

It’s important for you to take the time to assess your team’s strengths and weaknesses against their individual and team goals, as well as the mission of your company.

The best way to do this is by speaking with each of your sales people individually to gain a deep understanding of areas your candidate might be particularly valuable.

This will also be a great opportunity for you to encourage improvement and learning, and plan future sales training events. Most successful sales teams are those that are always growing, so take this as a chance to not only bring your sales people closer, but also continually help them develop their skills.

How to find a great fit for your sales team

Here are some of the best ways interview tips to make sure your candidate has humility, hunger and smarts, and would quickly and easily get used to their new team.

Ensure you’re not interviewing in silos. An ideal interviewing situation should consist of is multiple separate interviews, where different interviewers get to debrief before a final chat with the candidate. Another option is doing a panel interview. Both of these allow the interviewers to discuss personality traits they’ve noticed and analyze various answers and behaviors from the candidate.

Interview in a relaxed team setting. For candidates that make it to a later stage of the interview process, you can place them in a working environment with peers, superiors and subordinates on a problem-solving task. Those with good interpersonal and collaborative skills will thrive in this environment and build a relationship with others quickly.

Ask sales interview questions that show their personality, not just their skills. Their sales skills might get them far in a sales process , but make sure to test how they interact with others. Some of the behavioral questions you can ask are:

Can you be a good team player and disagree with your manager?
How do you approach a situation if you don’t agree with how your team wants to solve a certain problem?
What would you do if your sales results for the month are higher than anyone else’s, and you notice the team morale is down?

There are no perfect answers to these questions, but you can gauge the true intentions and the ability to empower others from your candidate’s response—both verbal and non-verbal. A good interviewer reads between the lines.

What to look for in a sales rep

In the previous section, we talked about what are typically considered soft skills, and have a lot to do with drive and interpersonal skills. Now, let’s look into traits that are more often called hard skills, which are considered more specific, defined and measurable and should definitely be covered by your sales interview questions.

Even though sales roles can vary from entry-level positions through to account management and even executive positions, it’s crucial to look for these qualities in all potential salespeople , and identify their strengths and weaknesses.

A full understanding of a sales cycle. An ideal candidate will have a deep knowledge of the actions necessary at each stage of the sales cycle and identify ways to shorten parts of the cycle to help the organization grow. Look for this skill by getting your candidate to walk you through a sales cycle of a hypothetical, or even your own, organization.
Lead qualification. A sales team that gets lead qualification right is arguably the best team you can have. When lead qualification is well organized and managed, all your sales people will be more productive, follow up more successfully and win more revenue. Test this trait by getting your candidate to list questions they would use to qualify a lead for your company.
Product and service knowledge. Asking about their knowledge of what they’ll be selling indicates how enthusiastic they’ll be throughout their sales conversations. Try a role-play conversation in which you are a potential customer with a specific issue your product can solve.
High levels of organization. Taking a lead from early stages through to sales is a complex process. Look for this skill by asking how they manage their calendar on a weekly and daily basis, their emails, to-do lists, as well as which tools and techniques they use to keep track of their tasks.

The non-obvious traits of a top-performing sales rep

There are a few more things you should look for in your future sales staff that will make them an irreplaceable part of your sales machine.

Problem-solving abilities. Problems will inevitably arise in your candidate’s role. To see if your candidate has this skill, you can ask them to describe their most stressful work situations in the past and how they handled them, how they deal with lack of information when it comes to problem solving, or about situations when they were asked to solve a problem in half the time than usual.
Optimism. Failure and challenges are a regular part of sales. Ask them about the failures from their previous roles and the approach they used to deal with them.
Coachability. The best sales reps are those that see their growth as an ongoing process. Even when they’re at the top of their game, they’re able to see areas they can improve and excel. Ask your candidate about their favorite ways to upskill and how frequently they do it.

The sure-fire way to verify a successful sales background

Here’s the problem with all these sales questions and skills you’re looking for: salespeople are usually well-prepared for them.

It’s in a salesperson’s nature to be prepared for various scenarios, so it’s trickier to get honest responses from sales candidates than for almost any other role.

Beyond the common sales interview questions, you can dig deeper by asking them for answers that dive into their performance in previous sales positions , but keep in mind that this is also something that can be, and often is, rehearsed.

However, you can get beyond that by asking further questions to get your candidate to clarify specifics.

Four sales interview questions you could ask in order to differentiate the truth from good preparation are:

Walk me through a time when you had a measurable impact on your sales team.
Tell me about a time you exceeded your monthly or quarterly sales goals .
What was your best month of sales in your previous role?
Tell me about a sale you’ve almost lost, but managed to turn around and win.

The answer to any of these will almost always involve a number such as revenue, the number of sales, or a conversion rate.

Now take the time to unfold the story further. It’s easy to lay out figures, but it’s a lot harder to explain the process of achieving them.

Ask the following questions:

How did you qualify leads during this period of exceeding your targets?
What action do you think made the most impact when you achieved that?
Were you able to reproduce similar results on another occasion?
How did you identify the problem in the deal that you managed to turn around?

The deeper you go, the less prepared they’ll be, so you can be sure that they are describing their actual sales experiences and not reciting a rehearsed answer.

The experts favorite questions and answers

Jonathan Angelov

Co-founder and VP Sales, Aircall .

“Sell me Aircall like I am a guy you are cold calling.”

Why ask for this?

“As I am usually the last person they see in the interview process they usually feel quite confident about their knowledge about Aircall. “They are mostly making the same mistake, unfortunately. They start their pitch without asking me any questions. They are just talking and talking. I call this the stress talk effect: you don’t listen, you talk. “Selling is not about talking but it is about listening. They often get confused because they have learned what Aircall is doing, and then I ask them, ‘wait, do you know who you have on the phone? What is his business and how do you know it is relevant to him?’ “It is very important to me that candidates understand that selling is not just pushing the person to buy, but it is listening to them and making sure that you are selling the right product to the right person. I am usually quite tough on them when they fail, so they understand that they still have a lot to learn. The good news is that we are here to help them.”

Francis Brero

Co-founder and CRO Madkudu .

1. “What was your biggest challenge in your previous role?” 2. “What would you need to close your first deal with MadKudu?”

Why ask these questions? “The reason behind the first question is to look for what I call the ‘victim syndrome.’ If the candidate talks about everything they didn’t have to succeed, this raises a big red flag. We look for people who see opportunities rather than challenges. “The second question helps us understand how the rep operates, how much support they look for and what they need to sell.”

Stan Massueras

Director, Sales EMEA, Intercom .

“Who are the companies that you truly admire and why?”

Why ask this question? “I love to ask this question to understand how passionate a candidate is about technology and entrepreneurship. It doesn’t really matter which companies are mentioned by the candidate (there is no perfect answer to this question). I simply use this question to evaluate if the candidate can speak with passion, authenticity and energy about the values and the mission of the company she/he admires. “Why? I can teach sales techniques to a sales rep but I can not teach them passion.”

Julia Pimsleur

Founder, Million Dollar Women.

“What about our organization aligns with your personal values?”

Why ask this question? “You need to find a passionate, committed professional who wants to grow with your brand. This question also shows you how deeply the candidate has researched and analyzed the role in preparation for the interview.”

Co-founder and CEO, Teamscope .

1. “Tell me about your past track record.” 2. “What’s the most challenging goal you have set for yourself recently?”

Why ask these questions? “The principles of conducting a good interview are actually more straightforward than you might think. “Ask specific questions about past performance or behavior, look for facts rather than opinions and assumptions and avoid ‘clever’ questions and brain teasers. “In the case of an experienced sales manager, simply ask ‘Tell me about your past track record’ and follow up with questions like ‘How did you set the sales targets ? How did you perform against those targets? When your team missed your targets, what did you do differently the next month?’ “To dig deeper, you might ask, ‘Tell me about the most challenging deal that you have closed?’ or ‘Tell me about the deal that you are most proud of?’ and again, follow up with questions that help you understand the specific situation, action, and outcome. “In case of candidates that don’t have a long track record in sales, look for behaviors that indicate they have the potential and drive to do the job. For sales, being self-motivated, tenacious, and organized is strongly correlated with performance, so ask questions like:

What’s the most challenging goal you have set for yourself recently?
Why did you want to achieve that?
What did you do to reach your goal?
How did you monitor your progress?

“Look for characteristics that are actually required in that specific sales process—if it’s not a direct door-to-door sales job, then being gregarious, cheerful and outgoing is actually not that relevant (so don’t judge based on the first impression or interview performance), but being organized and self-motivated definitely is.”

Alexander Theuma

Founder, SaaStock .

“If we spoke to your current/former bosses, how would they rate you on a scale of one to ten?”

Why ask this question? “I’m looking for an answer of nine or ten—a salesperson needs to be confident in their abilities and themselves. If anyone gives below a nine, I question whether they really believe they are/can be exceptional and an A player.”

Jakob Thusgaard

Founder and CEO, Yoursales .

1. “What is your working method?” 2. “Name a few of the tools you work with.”

Why ask these questions? “If they don’t name a method they’ll have challenges. If they can’t name any tools, I know they’ll have a problem—particularly in a sales environment. “Successful sales is getting the right combination of people, processes and tools to fit with the way your offering is best sold. People with an understanding of processes and tools make this easier. They are the real professionals. The rest is just pretending.”

Patrik Juranek

Director, Prague, Startup Grind .

1. “What are your values?” 2. “What business case will you acquire within one month?” 3. “What is your biggest sales success story and why?”

Guillaume Moubeche

Ceo, Lemlist .

“When do you stop following up on a potential customer?”

Why ask this question? “Depending on the answer, it can really help the person stand out. Someone who replies ‘I’ll never stop following up’ would be wrong in my opinion. Sales is much more complex than having someone super pushy that never gives up. “On the other hand, answering ‘it would really depend on the company culture and the branding of the company’ would really show that this person cares about the marketing team and the company. And when you see how sales and marketing often struggle to work together this is definitely a good point! Another good answer could be: ‘it depends on the stage of the lead.’ This would show that the person already has some knowledge of the sales funnel .”

Marc Wayshak

Best-selling sales author .

1. “What do you know about our company?” 2. “What do you know about me?”

Why ask these questions? “Any salesperson should have done extensive research before the job interview, just as you will want them to do before any prospect opportunity. This will let you know if they’ve done their homework or if they are just winging it. If they don’t know anything insightful about your company or you, then they are not someone you want to hire. Period. Ask this question at the very beginning of your first phone interview with the candidate.”

Andy Lambert

Co-founder, ContentCal .

“Name me one deal/situation where you failed/didn’t win and what did you learn from this?

Why ask this question? “Objections and rejections in sales are one of the only certainties of the job. The best sales professionals plan to manage failure and develop strategies to bounce back fast after missing targets .”

Jaako Paalanen

Chief Revenue Officer, Leadfeeder .

“Explain the steps you would take in your sales process from the beginning to the end.”

Why ask for this? “This question is great in so many different ways. First of all, it reveals how much of a numbers person they are. Do they know how many calls would they need to do to reach X, explaining how they would do it? What’s the tactic? “The question is pretty open-ended so it leaves room for improvisation and really showing you can understand sales and have an idea of how to do it. This is especially important in our organization at Leadfeeder , being a remote team where employees need to be real self-starters.”

MD, Spartan Retail Group .

“Tell me about a time when you helped a colleague achieve their objective. Explain what you did, how you did it, what was the outcome and why you did it.”

Why ask this question? “I want to know if they believe a salesperson’s income is entirely within their own control. You want team players. I’d look to give them specific scenarios and ask them to explain what they would do in a position that demands teamwork or collaboration. Ask them how they would manage and why they would manage this situation in this way.”

Sales interview questions and answers summed up

As you hire for sales positions in your company, remember you’re not just hiring people that will help you sell more. Your new sales staff should become part of a group that’s productive, cohesive and complete thanks to the diverse range of skills, both soft and hard.

Ensure that they’re deeply knowledgeable about the responsibilities ahead of them in the role, the type of prospects they will be working with and the quirks of your specific market. More than that, you want them to be open to ongoing learning to help keep your company ahead of the competition.

Create a set of sales interview questions that will uncover their excitement, motivations and past experiences, and the way these will fit into the nature of their sales role.

We’ve created a customizable interview preparation guide you can download here and use it for your very next sales interview.

Happy hiring!

Driving business growth

Full access. No credit card needed.

25 Must-have Qualities to Look for in Salespeople

Pipedrive has developed a simple list of 25 qualities salespeople need to give your team the best chance of succeeding. These can help you on your next hire.

Hiring Salespeople: How to Create the Perfect Sales Recruitment Strategy

From deciding if it’s the right time to hire to identifying dynamic candidates, a hiring strategy helps you make recruitment decisions based on what’s best for your business. In this post, we’re going to take a deeper look at how sales recruitment has changed in the recent past, why a sales hiring strategy is important and outline the eight steps to building a refined sales hiring strategy.

BDRs in sales: everything you need to know

Business development representatives help sales organizations fill their pipelines. Learn how to thrive as a BDR in sales and why the role is so important.

Better resumes & cover letters

AI Resume Builder

Resume Checker

AI Cover Letters

Resume Summary Generator

Resume Bullet Generator

Resume Skills Generator

Tailor your resume to jobs

Job Tailored Resumes

Resume Keyword Scanner

Job Keyword Finder

Organize your search

Job Tracker

Contact Tracker

Interview Tracker

Job Search Metrics

Speed up your search

Job Application Autofill

Chrome Extension

For Organizations
University Career Centers
Career Coaches
Workforce Development
Outplacement
Affiliate Program

Targeted Resume

Beautiful, perfectly job-tailored resumes designed to make you stand out, built 10x faster with the power of AI.

For Organizations University Career Centers Career Coaches Bootcamps Workforce Development Outplacement Affiliate Program
Sign up for free

Interview Questions

50 Interview Questions About Sales (With Answers)

Want to find your next sales role? You'll want to practice these interview questions about sales.

June 10, 2024

Sales jobs are popular positions companies hire for to increase revenue and profits. If you’re actively seeking out your next sales role, you might want to check out these interview questions about sales and learn the importance of sales in a company.

Faster job search. More Offers. Use our AI Cover Letter Builder, Interview Prep and Job Search Tools to land your next job.

What is sales?

Sales is a multifaceted soft skill that involves the art of persuading potential customers to purchase a product or service. It encompasses a broad range of abilities including effective communication, empathy, active listening, and problem-solving. At its core, sales is about building trust and relationships with customers, understanding their needs and desires, and providing solutions that meet those needs. A successful salesperson not only aims to close a deal but also to create a positive and lasting impression, ensuring customer satisfaction and fostering future business opportunities.

Why is sales important in the workplace?

1. boosts revenue generation.

Mastery in sales is directly linked to a company's ability to generate revenue. Skilled sales professionals understand how to effectively communicate the value of a product or service, persuading potential customers to make a purchase. This ability to drive sales is crucial for the financial health and growth of any business, making sales skills invaluable in the workplace.

2. Enhances Customer Relationships

Sales is not just about closing deals; it's also about building and maintaining strong relationships with customers. Professionals adept in sales techniques are skilled in listening to customer needs, providing tailored solutions, and ensuring customer satisfaction. This leads to increased customer loyalty, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth, which are essential for long-term success.

3. Fosters Team Collaboration

Sales skills are pivotal in promoting collaboration within teams and across different departments. Effective sales strategies often require input and cooperation from product development, marketing, and customer service teams. Professionals with strong sales abilities are adept at communicating goals, motivating team members, and working collaboratively towards achieving sales targets, thereby enhancing overall organizational performance.

Tips for Answering Sales-Based Interview Questions

When preparing for an interview focused on your sales abilities, it's vital to showcase not just your knowledge and experience but also your adaptability, problem-solving skills, and ability to drive results. Here are five tips to help you answer sales-related interview questions effectively:

1. Quantify Your Achievements

Whenever possible, back up your answers with numbers. Sales is a results-driven field, and numbers don’t lie. Mention specific targets you’ve hit or exceeded, revenue you’ve generated, or how you increased your client base. For example, "I increased my sales territory revenue by 30% within one year by implementing a new client engagement strategy."

2. Discuss Your Sales Process

Interviewers want to understand how you approach the sales cycle from prospecting to closing deals. Describe the steps you take to identify and qualify leads, how you build relationships with prospects, and your strategies for overcoming objections and closing. Tailor your process to the company’s products or services if possible, showing that you’ve done your homework.

3. Highlight Relationship-Building Skills

Sales is as much about building lasting relationships as it is about closing deals. Share examples of how you’ve maintained strong relationships with clients, solved their problems, and how those relationships have led to repeat business or referrals. This could be a story about how you turned a dissatisfied customer into a loyal one through attentive service and problem-solving.

4. Showcase Your Adaptability

The sales landscape is constantly changing, so it’s important to demonstrate your ability to adapt to new markets, technologies, and customer needs. Share examples of how you’ve successfully navigated changes in the past, such as adapting to a new CRM system or adjusting your sales strategy in response to market shifts.

5. Prepare a Success Story

Have a go-to success story that encapsulates your sales expertise. This story should highlight a challenging situation, the actions you took, and the positive outcome. Whether it’s about how you broke into a new market, landed a key account against the odds, or turned around a failing sales territory, make sure your story conveys your strategic thinking, perseverance, and ability to achieve results.

1. Can you describe your previous sales experience?

In my previous sales role at ABC Company, I was responsible for managing a portfolio of over 50 clients in the tech industry. My primary duties included generating leads, conducting sales presentations, and negotiating contracts. I excelled in meeting and exceeding sales targets, consistently achieving 120% of my quarterly goals. Additionally, I was involved in training new sales team members and refining our sales strategies to adapt to market changes.

2. How do you approach setting and achieving sales targets?

I approach setting and achieving sales targets by first understanding the overall business goals and aligning my sales objectives accordingly. I break down the annual target into quarterly and monthly goals, which makes them more manageable. To achieve these targets, I use a combination of prospecting techniques, maintaining a robust pipeline, and regularly reviewing my progress. I also set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to ensure clarity and focus.

3. What techniques do you use to generate new leads?

To generate new leads, I use a multi-faceted approach that includes networking at industry events, leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn, and utilizing lead generation tools such as Salesforce and HubSpot. Additionally, I conduct research to identify potential clients and tailor my outreach strategies to their specific needs. I also rely on referrals from satisfied customers and colleagues, which often leads to high-quality leads.

4. Can you provide an example of a successful sales pitch you delivered?

One of my most successful sales pitches was for a cloud-based software solution to a mid-sized financial firm. I tailored the presentation to address their specific pain points, such as data security and regulatory compliance. By showcasing our product's unique features and demonstrating a strong ROI, I was able to secure a contract worth $200,000 annually. The client appreciated the personalized approach and the thorough understanding of their needs.

5. How do you handle objections from potential customers?

When handling objections, I listen carefully to understand the customer's concerns fully. I acknowledge their points and then provide clear, concise responses that address their issues. For example, if a customer is worried about the cost, I highlight the long-term savings and value our product offers. If the objection is about a feature, I demonstrate how our solution can meet their needs, either through existing capabilities or future updates.

6. Describe a time when you turned a difficult prospect into a client.

There was a time when I was working with a prospect who was initially very skeptical about our product's capabilities. They had been using a competitor's solution for years and were hesitant to switch. I spent time understanding their concerns, provided detailed comparisons, and arranged a demonstration highlighting our product's superior features. After several follow-ups and addressing all their doubts, I managed to convert them into a loyal client who eventually upgraded to our premium services.

7. How do you stay motivated when facing sales rejections?

Staying motivated after facing sales rejections involves maintaining a positive mindset and viewing each rejection as a learning opportunity. I analyze the feedback to understand what I could improve and use it to refine my approach. Additionally, I set small, achievable goals to keep myself motivated and celebrate minor victories along the way. Support from colleagues and maintaining a work-life balance also play a crucial role in staying resilient.

8. What strategies do you use to build and maintain relationships with clients?

Building and maintaining relationships with clients involves regular communication, understanding their business needs, and providing consistent value. I schedule periodic check-ins to discuss their goals and challenges, offer insights or solutions, and ensure they are satisfied with our services. Personalizing interactions, such as remembering important dates or milestones, also helps strengthen the relationship. Additionally, I ensure timely follow-ups and address any issues promptly to build trust and loyalty.

9. Can you provide an example of how you closed a challenging sale?

One challenging sale involved a client who was very detail-oriented and required extensive information before making a decision. I provided comprehensive data sheets, case studies, and scheduled multiple product demonstrations. I also arranged meetings with our technical team to address specific technical questions. By being patient, thorough, and responsive, I eventually gained the client's trust and closed the sale, resulting in a significant contract for our company.

10. How do you stay updated on industry trends and competitor activities?

To stay updated on industry trends and competitor activities, I regularly read industry publications, follow relevant blogs, and participate in webinars and conferences. I also subscribe to newsletters and use tools like Google Alerts to receive updates on competitors. Networking with industry peers and joining professional associations also provides valuable insights. Additionally, I conduct regular competitor analysis to understand their strengths and weaknesses and adjust our strategies accordingly.

11. Describe a situation where you exceeded your sales targets.

In my previous role at XYZ Corporation, I was given a quarterly sales target of $500,000. By identifying high-potential leads, leveraging existing client relationships, and implementing a strategic follow-up process, I managed to close several large deals. I exceeded my target by 150%, closing $750,000 in sales. This achievement was recognized by my managers, and I was awarded Salesperson of the Quarter.

12. How do you prioritize your sales activities and manage your time effectively?

I prioritize my sales activities by using a combination of task management tools and time-blocking techniques. Each morning, I review my goals and tasks, prioritizing them based on urgency and importance. I focus on high-impact activities first, such as follow-ups with potential clients close to closing and lead generation. I also allocate specific times for administrative tasks and ensure regular check-ins with existing clients to maintain strong relationships. This structured approach helps me stay organized and efficient.

13. Can you share an experience where you had to negotiate a deal with a tough client?

I once negotiated with a client who was very price-sensitive and skeptical about the value of our solution. By thoroughly understanding their pain points and demonstrating how our product could significantly reduce their operational costs, I built a compelling case. I offered a pilot program at a discounted rate to prove our product's value, which led to a successful full-scale implementation. This approach not only secured the deal but also resulted in a long-term partnership.

14. How do you handle long sales cycles?

Handling long sales cycles requires patience, persistence, and strategic touchpoints. I map out the sales cycle and identify key decision-makers early on. Regular follow-ups, providing valuable content, and demonstrating continued interest in solving the client’s problems are crucial. I also ensure I have multiple points of contact within the prospect’s organization to avoid delays if a primary contact becomes unresponsive. This consistent engagement helps maintain momentum and trust throughout the extended sales process.

15. What role does customer feedback play in your sales process?

Customer feedback is vital in refining our sales approach and improving our products. I actively seek feedback from clients after every sale and use this information to address any concerns and enhance our offerings. Positive feedback helps identify what we're doing right, while constructive criticism reveals areas for improvement. This feedback loop ensures that we remain customer-focused and continuously adapt to meet their evolving needs.

16. Describe a time when you had to sell a new product or service.

When we launched a new software solution at ABC Tech, I was responsible for introducing it to existing clients. I developed a comprehensive understanding of the new product’s features and benefits, and created customized presentations to demonstrate how it could address specific client needs. By offering trial periods and gathering initial user feedback, I was able to convert several clients to the new solution within the first three months of its launch.

17. How do you approach building a sales pipeline?

Building a sales pipeline involves a mix of prospecting, qualifying leads, and nurturing relationships. I use CRM tools to manage and track leads, ensuring no opportunities are overlooked. I start with market research to identify potential leads and then engage with them through various channels, such as cold calls, emails, and social media. Regular follow-ups and personalized communication help in moving leads through the pipeline efficiently.

18. Can you provide an example of how you upsold or cross-sold to a customer?

During my tenure at DEF Corporation, I managed to upsell a client who initially purchased our basic software package. By regularly reviewing their usage and needs, I identified that an advanced package with additional features would significantly benefit their operations. I demonstrated the added value through a customized presentation and a free trial period, which convinced them to upgrade, resulting in a 30% increase in their annual subscription fee.

19. How do you handle pricing objections from customers?

When faced with pricing objections, I first seek to understand the customer’s concerns fully. I emphasize the value and ROI of our product, often using case studies or testimonials from similar clients. If needed, I offer flexible payment plans or discounts for longer-term commitments. By focusing on the value proposition and showing how the investment will pay off in the long run, I can often overcome pricing objections.

20. Describe a situation where you had to adapt your sales approach to fit the needs of a specific customer.

I once worked with a government agency that had stringent procurement processes and a different set of needs compared to my usual clients. Understanding their unique requirements, I customized my approach by providing detailed documentation, compliance information, and aligning with their procurement cycle. This tailored strategy helped in building trust and resulted in securing a significant contract, which was a first for our company in the public sector.

21. How do you ensure customer satisfaction after the sale is completed?

Customer satisfaction post-sale is crucial for long-term success. I maintain regular follow-up meetings to ensure the client is happy with the product and address any issues promptly. I also provide them with resources for better utilization and inform them about updates or new features. By staying engaged and responsive, I ensure they feel valued and supported, which helps in building loyalty and encouraging repeat business.

22. Can you provide an example of how you used data or metrics to improve your sales performance?

At GHI Corporation, I noticed a trend in my sales metrics indicating that my closing rate was lower than average during the follow-up stage. I analyzed the data and identified that my follow-up frequency and timing needed adjustment. By increasing the frequency of follow-ups and adjusting the timing to better align with clients' schedules, I improved my closing rate by 15% over the next quarter. Data-driven insights were key to refining my sales process and achieving better results.

23. How do you handle competition in the market?

Handling competition involves staying informed about competitors’ offerings and differentiating our product’s unique value. I conduct regular competitor analysis to understand their strengths and weaknesses and use this information to position our product more effectively. I focus on highlighting the unique features and benefits of our solution and demonstrate superior customer service. Building strong relationships with clients and consistently delivering value helps in maintaining a competitive edge.

24. Describe a time when you had to collaborate with other teams to achieve a sales goal.

I collaborated with the marketing and product development teams on a major product launch at JKL Industries. Marketing provided insights on market trends and customer preferences, while the product team addressed technical queries and customizations. By working together, we developed targeted campaigns and sales strategies that resonated with our audience. This collaboration led to a successful launch, surpassing our sales target by 25%.

25. How do you approach selling to different types of customers (e.g., B2B vs. B2C)?

Selling to B2B and B2C customers requires different strategies. For B2B clients, I focus on building long-term relationships, understanding their business needs, and demonstrating ROI. The sales cycle is often longer and involves multiple stakeholders. For B2C customers, the approach is more transactional, emphasizing quick decision-making, emotional appeal, and immediate benefits. Understanding the distinct needs and decision-making processes of each type helps in tailoring the sales approach effectively.

26. Can you share an experience where you had to recover a lost customer or account?

I once had a client who switched to a competitor due to pricing concerns. I maintained a professional relationship, checking in periodically and sharing updates about our product improvements. After a few months, I reached out to offer a customized solution that addressed their specific needs at a competitive price. My persistence and willingness to tailor our offering to their requirements convinced them to return, and they became one of our most loyal customers.

27. How do you tailor your sales presentations to different audiences?

Tailoring sales presentations involves understanding the audience’s needs, preferences, and decision-making criteria. For technical audiences, I focus on product specifications, functionality, and integration capabilities. For executive-level stakeholders, I highlight ROI, cost savings, and strategic benefits. I use relevant case studies, industry-specific examples, and adapt my language and tone to resonate with each group. This customized approach ensures that the presentation is engaging and persuasive.

28. Describe a time when you had to meet a challenging sales quota.

During a particularly slow quarter at MNO Corporation, I was tasked with meeting an ambitious sales quota despite market downturns. I doubled my efforts in lead generation, focusing on high-potential industries and leveraging my network for referrals. I also collaborated closely with the marketing team to launch targeted campaigns. Through persistent follow-ups and strategic discounts, I managed to exceed the quota by 10%, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

29. How do you build trust and credibility with your clients?

Building trust and credibility involves consistent communication, delivering on promises, and providing value. I ensure transparency in all interactions, set realistic expectations, and follow through with exceptional service. Regular check-ins, providing industry insights, and being responsive to their needs also help in building trust. By showing genuine interest in their success and acting as a reliable advisor, I establish strong, long-term relationships.

30. Can you provide an example of how you used social media or digital tools to enhance your sales efforts?

I utilized LinkedIn to enhance my sales efforts by sharing industry-relevant content, engaging with potential leads, and participating in professional groups. By positioning myself as a thought leader, I attracted inbound inquiries and built a robust network. Additionally, I used CRM tools to track interactions and follow up effectively. This digital strategy led to a 20% increase in lead generation and improved my overall sales performance.

31. How do you handle situations where a client is dissatisfied with your product or service?

When a client is dissatisfied, I address the issue promptly and empathetically. I listen to their concerns, acknowledge the problem, and work towards a resolution. Whether it involves providing a replacement, offering a discount, or escalating the issue to higher management, my goal is to rectify the situation and restore their trust. By maintaining open communication and demonstrating a commitment to their satisfaction, I often turn negative experiences into opportunities to strengthen the relationship.

32. Describe a time when you had to manage multiple sales opportunities simultaneously.

Managing multiple sales opportunities simultaneously requires organization and prioritization. At PQR Ltd., I handled several high-value prospects at once. I used CRM software to track the progress of each lead and set reminders for follow-ups. Prioritizing based on the potential value and stage of each opportunity, I ensured timely communication and tailored approaches for each prospect. This methodical approach helped me close several deals concurrently without compromising on quality.

33. How do you stay organized and keep track of your sales activities?

Staying organized involves using tools like CRM systems to manage leads, tasks, and follow-ups. I maintain a detailed calendar for scheduling meetings and setting reminders for critical activities. Regularly reviewing my sales pipeline and setting daily, weekly, and monthly goals keeps me focused. Additionally, I document all interactions and feedback to ensure that no details are missed and follow-ups are timely and relevant.

34. Can you provide an example of a creative solution you used to close a sale?

I once used a creative approach to close a sale by offering a personalized demonstration of our product’s capabilities. The prospect was skeptical about its applicability to their unique needs. I collaborated with our technical team to create a custom demo that addressed their specific pain points. By showing a real-world application of our product, I was able to convince them of its value, leading to a successful sale.

35. How do you ensure that you are meeting your clients' needs and expectations?

Meeting clients’ needs and expectations involves active listening, regular communication, and delivering on promises. I conduct thorough needs assessments during initial meetings and tailor my solutions accordingly. Regular check-ins and follow-ups help me gauge their satisfaction and address any concerns promptly. By being responsive and proactive, I ensure that their expectations are consistently met, fostering long-term relationships.

36. Describe a situation where you had to sell in a highly competitive market.

Selling in a highly competitive market at STU Inc. required differentiating our product through superior customer service and unique features. I focused on understanding the specific needs of each prospect and highlighted how our solution addressed their pain points better than competitors. Offering personalized demonstrations, flexible pricing, and showcasing strong case studies helped me gain an edge. This approach led to winning several key accounts in a crowded market.

37. How do you prepare for a sales meeting or presentation?

Preparing for a sales meeting involves researching the client’s business, industry trends, and understanding their pain points. I customize my presentation to address their specific needs and prepare relevant case studies and data to support my points. Practicing the presentation, anticipating potential objections, and preparing responses are also crucial. This thorough preparation ensures that I can deliver a compelling and confident pitch.

38. Can you share an experience where you had to educate a customer about the value of your product or service?

At VWX Ltd., I had a prospect who was unaware of the benefits of our advanced analytics software. I conducted a workshop for their team, explaining the product’s features and demonstrating its potential to improve their business operations. By using real data from their operations and showcasing how our solution could provide actionable insights, I educated them on its value, leading to a successful sale.

39. How do you handle sales targets that you believe are unrealistic?

When faced with unrealistic sales targets, I communicate my concerns with management, providing data and insights to support my case. I suggest adjustments or alternative strategies to make the targets more achievable. Despite this, I remain committed and focused on doing my best to reach the goals. By setting personal milestones and working diligently, I strive to meet the targets as closely as possible.

40. Describe a time when you had to sell to a reluctant or skeptical customer.

Selling to a skeptical customer at YZA Corp. involved patience and persistence. The client had reservations about the ROI of our solution. I provided detailed case studies, arranged meetings with existing satisfied clients, and offered a risk-free trial period. By addressing their concerns methodically and demonstrating the value through real-world examples, I was able to convert their skepticism into confidence, resulting in a successful sale.

41. How do you approach building long-term relationships with key accounts?

Building long-term relationships involves regular communication, understanding the client’s evolving needs, and providing consistent value. I schedule periodic check-ins, offer proactive solutions, and ensure exceptional post-sale support. By being a reliable resource and demonstrating a genuine interest in their success, I foster trust and loyalty, which are essential for maintaining long-term partnerships.

42. Can you provide an example of how you have mentored or trained a junior salesperson?

At BCD Company, I mentored a new salesperson by pairing them with me for shadowing during client meetings. I provided regular feedback, conducted role-playing sessions to improve their pitching skills, and shared best practices. We set weekly goals and reviewed their progress, addressing any challenges they faced. Over time, they gained confidence and significantly improved their performance, becoming a valuable team member.

43. How do you ensure that your sales techniques are ethical and customer-focused?

Ensuring ethical and customer-focused sales techniques involves transparency, honesty, and prioritizing the client’s needs. I avoid high-pressure tactics and provide accurate information about our products. Building trust through integrity and focusing on long-term relationships rather than short-term gains are key principles. Regular training on ethical sales practices and staying aligned with the company’s values also help maintain this focus.

44. Describe a situation where you had to use storytelling to enhance your sales pitch.

During a pitch to a potential client at EFG Corporation, I used storytelling to illustrate the impact of our solution. Instead of just presenting features, I shared a success story of a similar client who faced the same challenges and how our product transformed their operations. By humanizing the data and creating an emotional connection, the client could visualize the benefits, leading to a successful sale.

45. How do you handle follow-ups and keep the sales process moving forward?

Effective follow-ups involve timely and relevant communication. I use CRM tools to schedule follow-ups and track client interactions. Personalized emails, phone calls, and sharing valuable content keep the prospect engaged. I also set clear next steps at the end of each meeting to ensure the process moves forward smoothly. Regularly checking in without being intrusive helps maintain momentum.

46. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adjust your sales strategy mid-campaign?

Midway through a campaign at HIJ Enterprises, we realized our target audience’s needs had shifted due to market changes. I gathered feedback, analyzed the new requirements, and adjusted our messaging to focus on the updated pain points. We revamped our materials and re-trained the sales team. This pivot helped us align better with the market demands and resulted in salvaging the campaign, eventually meeting our targets.

47. How do you measure your success in sales?

I measure success in sales through various metrics such as meeting or exceeding sales targets, conversion rates, client retention, and customer satisfaction scores. Regularly reviewing my performance against these metrics helps identify areas for improvement. Additionally, receiving positive feedback from clients and achieving personal growth and professional development milestones are also indicators of success.

48. Describe a time when you had to overcome a significant challenge in your sales role.

At KLM Corporation, I faced a significant challenge when a key client threatened to leave due to service issues. I took immediate action by addressing their concerns, involving the service team for quick resolution, and providing regular updates. I also worked on rebuilding their trust by offering additional support and demonstrating our commitment to their success. This effort not only retained the client but strengthened our relationship.

49. How do you ensure that you maintain a positive attitude and high energy during sales slumps?

Maintaining a positive attitude during sales slumps involves focusing on the bigger picture and learning from setbacks. I set small, achievable goals to keep myself motivated and celebrate minor victories. Seeking support and advice from colleagues, staying connected with mentors, and continuing professional development help maintain my enthusiasm. By staying proactive and resilient, I can navigate through challenging times effectively.

50. Can you share an experience where your persistence led to a successful sale?

At NOP Inc., I worked with a prospect who was initially uninterested in our product. Through persistent follow-ups, providing relevant case studies, and demonstrating a thorough understanding of their business needs, I gradually built their interest. After several months of consistent engagement and addressing their concerns, they finally decided to invest in our solution. My persistence paid off, resulting in a substantial sale and a satisfied client.

Get More Interviews, Faster

Huntr streamlines your job search. Instantly craft tailored resumes and cover letters, fill out application forms with a single click, effortlessly keep your job hunt organized, and much more...

or learn more

Next-Generation Job Tailored Resumes

Huntr provides the most advanced job <> resume matching system in the world. Helping you match not only keywords, but responsibilities and qualifications from a job, into your resume.

Job Keyword Extractor + Resume AI Integration

Huntr extracts keywords from job descriptions and helps you integrate them into your resume using the power of AI.

Application Autofill

Save hours of mindless form filling. Use our chrome extension to fill application forms with a single click.

Move beyond basic, bare-bones job trackers. Elevate your search with Huntr's all-in-one, feature-rich management platform.

Perfectly tailored cover letters, in seconds! Our cover letter generator blends your unique background with the job's specific requirements, resulting in unique, standout cover letters.

Huntr checks your resume for spelling, length, impactful use of metrics, repetition and more, ensuring your resume gets noticed by employers.

Gorgeous Resume Templates

Stand out with one of 7 designer-grade templates. Whether you're a creative spirit or a corporate professional, our range of templates caters to every career aspiration.

Personal Job Search CRM

The ultimate companion for managing your professional job-search contacts and organizing your job search outreach.

The Sales Engineer Guy

Search this blog, how to ace your presentation interview.

20 Sales Interview Questions and Answers

Common Sales interview questions, how to answer them, and sample answers from a certified career coach.

Landing a sales job is an exciting opportunity—but it’s also a big challenge. After all, you have to prove that you can close deals and hit your targets during the interview process.

The key to success in a sales job interview? Knowing what kind of questions you might be asked and how best to answer them. To help you prepare, we’ve rounded up some of the most common sales interview questions—along with advice on how to answer each one. So read on, and get ready to ace your next job interview!

What strategies do you use to identify and qualify potential customers?
Describe a time when you successfully closed a sale with a difficult customer.
How do you handle objections from prospects during the sales process?
Explain your understanding of the different types of sales techniques (e.g. consultative, solution-based, etc.).
Are you comfortable cold calling to attract new clients?
Tell me about a time when you had to collaborate with other departments in order to close a sale.
What metrics do you use to measure business goals?
How do you stay informed about industry trends and developments in order to make informed decisions as a Salesperson?
Provide an example of a successful sales initiative you have led in the past.
When faced with a difficult customer, how do you handle it?
We want to improve our sales process. What experience do you have with process improvement?
Describe your experience with developing and implementing employee training programs for sales teams.
Which type of customer do you find the most challenging to sell to?
There is a company culture change, what would be your approach to aligning the sales team with the new culture?
When dealing with a crisis, how do you manage customer communication and expectations?
How do you ensure that the company’s values and mission are reflected in its day-to-day operations?
How do you evaluate and select potential new sales representatives?
How do you prioritize tasks when there is not enough time or resources to complete everything?
What strategies do you use to set up an ergonomic desk space so you can comfortably and efficiently work on sales calls?
How often do you perform audits in your current role?

1. What strategies do you use to identify and qualify potential customers?

Salespersons need to be able to identify and qualify potential customers quickly and accurately in order to close deals and hit their sales targets. By asking this question, the interviewer is gauging your ability to understand the customer’s needs, prioritize leads, and create a sales plan that maximizes revenue.

How to Answer:

Your answer should demonstrate that you understand the process of customer identification and qualification. Talk about how you use data to identify potential customers, such as researching target demographics or analyzing past sales trends. You can also discuss your strategies for qualifying leads, such as conducting interviews with prospects or using surveys to gauge interest in a product or service. Finally, explain how you prioritize leads based on the data collected and focus your efforts on those most likely to close.

Example: “I use a combination of data-driven and qualitative methods to identify and qualify potential customers. I start by researching target demographics and analyzing past sales trends, then I use these insights to create a list of qualified leads. From there, I conduct interviews with prospects to gain further insight into their needs and determine the best way to approach them. Finally, I prioritize my leads based on their likelihood of closing and focus my efforts on those most likely to be successful.”

2. Describe a time when you successfully closed a sale with a difficult customer.

Selling is all about overcoming objections and closing the deal. If you can show that you have experience doing this, it will demonstrate your ability to be successful in the role. Interviewers want to know that you understand how to handle objections and can identify the needs of the customer in order to successfully close the sale.

To answer this question, you should walk the interviewer through the steps that you took to close the sale. Start by explaining what the customer’s initial objection was and how you overcame it. Then explain how you identified their needs and tailored your solution to meet them. Finally, talk about what made the customer decide to purchase from you instead of a competitor. This will demonstrate your ability to think on your feet and show that you understand how to close sales.

Example: “I recently had a customer who was very hesitant to purchase our product. They had some valid concerns about the cost, so I worked with them to come up with an alternative payment plan that better fit their budget. I also offered additional services and discounts to sweeten the deal. Ultimately, we were able to reach an agreement and they ended up becoming one of our most loyal customers.”

3. How do you handle objections from prospects during the sales process?

Objections are a normal part of any sales process, but not everyone knows how to handle them. The interviewer is likely looking for evidence that you can think on your feet and come up with creative solutions to customer objections. They’ll want to know that you’re able to stay positive and still make the sale, no matter what kind of objections the customer has.

The best way to answer this question is to provide an example from your own experience. Talk about a time when you encountered an objection during the sales process and how you overcame it. Show that you’re able to think on your feet by coming up with creative solutions, being flexible in negotiating, and staying positive throughout the conversation. Demonstrate that you understand the customer’s needs and are willing to work with them to find a solution that works for both parties.

Example: “Recently, I was working with a prospect who had an objection to our pricing. To address their concerns, I worked with them to customize the package to fit within their budget by adjusting the number of services included in the plan and offering monthly payment options. In the end, they were happy with the solution and decided to move forward with the sale. By staying positive and being creative in my approach, I was able to turn what could have been a lost sale into a successful one.”

4. Explain your understanding of the different types of sales techniques (e.g. consultative, solution-based, etc.).

In sales, there are different approaches that can be taken when dealing with customers. The most successful salespeople are able to recognize which techniques are most effective for different types of customers and tailor their approach accordingly. By asking you to explain your understanding of various sales techniques, the interviewer is looking to gain a better understanding of whether you have the knowledge and experience needed to successfully close deals.

Start by explaining the different types of sales techniques that you are familiar with. For example, consultative selling focuses on building relationships and understanding customer needs before making a sale, while solution-based selling involves presenting solutions to customer problems. After discussing the various types of sales techniques, explain how you have used them in the past. Provide examples of successful deals that you closed using these techniques and discuss what made them so effective. Finally, mention any additional training or experience that has helped you become an even better salesperson.

Example: “I’m well-versed in different types of sales techniques, including consultative selling, solution-based selling and value-based selling. I’ve successfully used each of these approaches to close deals with various types of customers. For example, when working with a large corporate client, I used my knowledge of the company’s needs to create a tailored solution that addressed their specific goals. This resulted in a successful sale for both parties. In addition to my experience, I have also completed training courses on negotiation strategies and customer service, which has helped me become a more effective salesperson.”

5. Are you comfortable cold calling to attract new clients?

Cold calling is an important part of sales and a key way to attract new clients. The interviewer wants to know if you’re comfortable reaching out to potential customers and engaging in conversations about your product or service. They want to make sure you understand the importance of cultivating relationships and know how to handle rejection and objections.

Be honest with your answer and provide specific examples of times you’ve cold called in the past. Talk about how you prepare for calls, what strategies you use to engage with potential customers, and how you handle rejection or objections. Show that you understand the importance of building relationships and are willing to put in the effort to make those connections.

Example: “I am very comfortable with cold calling. I have done it many times in the past and understand that it’s an important part of sales. Before making a call, I always do research on the company so I can tailor my pitch to their needs. When talking to potential customers, I focus on building relationships by asking questions, listening carefully, and presenting solutions tailored to their individual situation. If I get rejected or encounter objections, I remain professional and politely ask for more information so I can better understand their needs.”

6. Tell me about a time when you had to collaborate with other departments in order to close a sale.

Sales isn’t just about convincing a customer to buy a product — it’s about understanding the customer’s needs, working with other departments to meet those needs, and closing the sale. This question gives the interviewer an idea of how well you collaborate with other departments to get the job done. It also shows that you understand the importance of teamwork in the sales process.

Talk about a specific experience in which you had to work with other departments to close a sale. Describe the situation, what your role was, and how you collaborated with other departments to get the job done. Be sure to focus on the positive outcome of the collaboration — for example, if you were able to close the sale or increase customer satisfaction. You can also discuss any lessons you learned from this experience that have helped you become a better salesperson.

Example: “I once had a customer who wanted to purchase our software but they also wanted custom features that weren’t available in the product. I worked with the engineering team to create a customized version of the software and was able to close the sale. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration between departments when it comes to sales, as well as how to better understand customer needs and develop solutions that meet their requirements.”

7. What metrics do you use to measure business goals?

This question is meant to see how well you understand the metrics that are important to the success of your role and the company as a whole. It’s important to have a good understanding of how to measure success in the position you’re applying for, and this question can help the hiring manager assess your knowledge.

Before you answer this question, it’s important to do your research and understand which metrics are most important to the role. Some common metrics used in sales include cost per lead, close rate, average deal size, customer lifetime value, and more. Once you have a good understanding of these metrics, explain how you use them to measure success and meet business goals. Be sure to mention any successes or challenges you’ve faced while using these metrics.

Example: “I use a variety of metrics to measure success, depending on the goals. For example, I track customer lifetime value and cost per lead when trying to increase sales volume. When looking to improve customer satisfaction, I look at close rate, average deal size, net promoter score, and other types of feedback from customers. I also use my own personal metrics that I have developed over time to measure progress towards specific goals. My experience in sales has taught me how important it is to be able to measure success quickly and accurately, so I make sure to always stay up-to-date with the latest metrics.”

8. How do you stay informed about industry trends and developments in order to make informed decisions as a Salesperson?

Sales professionals are expected to be knowledgeable about their products, services, and industry. In order to make informed decisions and keep up with competitors, salespeople must be able to stay up-to-date on industry trends and developments. This question helps the interviewer assess your knowledge and ability to stay up-to-date on the latest industry news.

You should be prepared to discuss how you stay informed about industry trends and developments. For example, do you read relevant trade publications? Do you attend conferences or seminars? Are there any online resources that you use? Additionally, you can talk about how you share this information with your team and colleagues in order to make better decisions.

Example: “I stay informed of industry trends and developments by reading relevant trade publications and attending industry conferences and seminars. I also stay up-to-date on industry news by following key influencers on social media and subscribing to newsletters. I believe it’s important to share this information with my team and colleagues in order to make better decisions and stay competitive. I also make sure to stay in touch with other salespeople in my network to get their perspectives on the latest industry news.”

9. Provide an example of a successful sales initiative you have led in the past.

Interviewers will want to gauge your sales skills and ability to close deals. This question will allow you to showcase your successes and demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate a team. You should provide an example that illustrates your ability to build relationships, understand the customer’s needs, and close the sale.

Start by providing an overview of the initiative, including what it was, who you worked with, and why it was successful. Then, provide specific details about how you led the initiative. Include any challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the results of your efforts. Finally, explain what you learned from this experience and how it has shaped your approach to sales.

Example: “At my previous job, I was tasked with leading a sales initiative to increase revenue for our product line. I worked with a team of four sales reps and developed a strategy that involved understanding the customer’s needs, providing tailored solutions, and building relationships. We faced some challenges with customers who were resistant to change, but I was able to effectively communicate the benefits of our product and demonstrate how it would be a good fit for their business. Ultimately, we were able to increase revenue by 20% in the first quarter and maintain that level of growth for the remainder of the year. This experience taught me the importance of understanding the customer’s needs, building relationships, and being able to effectively communicate the value of our product. It has shaped my approach to sales and I’m confident that I can bring that same level of success to your team.”

10. When faced with a difficult customer, how do you handle it?

Sales reps need to be able to handle difficult customers and situations. They must be able to think on their feet and come up with creative solutions that will satisfy the customer while still making the sale. This question will give the interviewer a good idea of how you handle difficult situations and if you can think on your feet.

Start by talking about how you prioritize customer satisfaction. Explain that your goal is to make sure the customer feels heard and respected, even if you can’t give them what they want. Then talk about some of the strategies you use when faced with a difficult customer. Examples could include offering incentives or discounts, listening carefully to their concerns, or suggesting alternate solutions. Finally, explain how you would follow up after the situation has been resolved in order to ensure customer loyalty.

Example: “When faced with a difficult customer, I always prioritize customer satisfaction. My goal is to make sure the customer feels heard and respected, even if I can’t give them what they want. To do this, I listen carefully to their concerns and try to offer solutions that will meet their needs. I also offer incentives or discounts when appropriate. After the situation has been resolved, I always follow up with the customer to make sure they’re satisfied and to ensure customer loyalty.”

11. We want to improve our sales process. What experience do you have with process improvement?

Sales processes can vary from company to company, but they are often the key to success in sales. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience in process improvement, and if so, what kind. They want to know if you have the skills to analyze a company’s current process, identify areas for improvement, and then implement those changes to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

Start by talking about any experience you have in process improvement. If you don’t have direct experience, talk about how you would approach the task of improving a sales process. Discuss your ability to analyze data and identify areas for improvement, as well as your skill at implementing changes that will make the process more efficient and effective. Be sure to mention any specific tools or techniques you have used in the past or are familiar with. Finally, emphasize your commitment to continuous improvement and staying up-to-date on best practices in the industry.

Example: “I have extensive experience in process improvement, having worked on a number of projects to improve sales processes. I’m skilled at analyzing data and identifying areas for improvement, as well as implementing changes that will make processes more efficient and effective. I’m also familiar with a range of tools and techniques, such as Lean Six Sigma and Agile, that can be used to improve processes. Additionally, I’m committed to continuous improvement and staying up-to-date on best practices in the industry. I’m confident that my experience and skills can help you improve your sales process and achieve your desired results.”

12. Describe your experience with developing and implementing employee training programs for sales teams.

The ability to teach, train, and support sales teams is an important part of success in the sales industry. Knowing how to develop and implement employee training programs can be a great asset to a sales team. Interviewers may want to know that you understand how to create an effective program that will help employees learn the necessary skills and strategies, as well as how to measure success and adjust the program accordingly.

When answering this question, be sure to focus on your experience in developing and implementing employee training programs. Talk about the methods you used to create the program, such as researching best practices or gathering feedback from employees. Describe how you trained the team, for example by using presentations, role-playing scenarios, online courses, or other strategies. Finally, explain how you measure success of the program and adjust it accordingly. Show that you understand the importance of providing ongoing support and development for sales teams.

Example: “I have extensive experience in developing and implementing employee training programs for sales teams. I have created programs that are tailored to the specific needs of each team, based on research of best practices and feedback from employees. I have trained teams using both in-person and online methods, such as presentations, role-playing scenarios, and online courses. I have also monitored the success of the program, measured results, and adjusted it accordingly. I understand the importance of providing ongoing support and development for sales teams, and have the experience to back it up.”

13. Which type of customer do you find the most challenging to sell to?

Selling can be a difficult job, and a good salesperson needs to know how to handle different types of customers. This question allows the interviewer to get a sense of how you handle difficult conversations and how you might handle a customer who is resistant to the product or service you’re offering. It also allows you to show your understanding of different customer types and how to tailor your approach based on the customer.

Before you answer this question, think about the types of customers you’ve encountered in your past sales roles. You can then explain which type of customer is most challenging for you to sell to and why. For example, if you find it difficult to sell to price-sensitive customers, you might explain that you have trouble finding a balance between offering them value and staying within their budget constraints. It’s important to be honest but also show that you understand how to handle different types of customers.

Example: “I find that the most challenging type of customer to sell to is the price-sensitive one. I understand that these customers are looking for the best deal possible, but it can be difficult to strike a balance between offering them value and staying within their budget constraints. To handle this type of customer, I focus on demonstrating the value of my product or service and explaining how it can help them achieve their goals. I also make sure to understand their budget and work within their parameters to find a solution that works for both of us.”

14. There is a company culture change, what would be your approach to aligning the sales team with the new culture?

Changes in company culture can have a huge impact on sales performance, and it’s important for a salesperson to be able to recognize and respond to these changes in order to stay successful. An interviewer may ask this question to see if you have the ability to adjust to different situations, understand the motivations of the sales team, and find creative solutions to any problems that may arise.

You should start by outlining your approach to understanding the new culture. Show that you’re willing to take the time to learn about what the company is trying to achieve with the change and how it will affect the sales team. Then, talk about how you would bring the team together to discuss the changes and how they can be implemented. You should also mention any strategies you have for motivating the team to embrace the new culture and ensuring they are on board with the changes. Finally, emphasize your ability to lead the team through the transition and help them adjust to the new environment.

Example: “To align the sales team with the new company culture, I would first take the time to understand the change and its implications for the sales team. Then, I would bring the team together to discuss the changes and how they can be implemented. I would also design strategies to ensure that the team understands the importance of the new culture and is motivated to embrace it. I would lead the team through the transition and ensure that everyone is on board with the changes. I have the ability to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of the team, and I’m confident that I can help the sales team adjust to the new environment and remain successful.”

15. When dealing with a crisis, how do you manage customer communication and expectations?

Sales professionals must be able to manage customer expectations and communication during a crisis. They must be able to quickly assess the situation, develop a plan of action, and communicate that plan to customers. This question helps the interviewer gauge how well you can handle pressure and how you will respond to a difficult situation.

To answer this question, you can talk about how you have handled a similar situation in the past. If you don’t have any direct experience with a crisis, you can talk about how you would handle it. Start by outlining your plan of action: first, assess the situation and identify the root cause; second, develop an action plan to address the issue; third, communicate the plan to customers; fourth, keep customers updated on progress; and finally, follow up after the issue is resolved. Show that you are able to think quickly and take initiative during difficult situations.

Example: “When I’m dealing with a crisis, I take quick action to assess the situation and determine the root cause. I then develop an action plan to address the issue and communicate this plan to customers. I make sure that customers are kept in the loop on the progress of the issue and follow up with them after the issue is resolved. I’m proactive and take initiative during difficult situations, and I’m confident that I can handle any crisis that may arise in this role.”

16. How do you ensure that the company’s values and mission are reflected in its day-to-day operations?

Companies often have a mission statement that serves as a guide for the company’s goals and objectives. It’s important to demonstrate that you understand how to align your work with the company’s values and mission. This question helps uncover how well you understand the company’s goals and how you would use those goals to ensure success.

Start by talking about how you stay informed of the company’s mission and values. This could include reading up on the company’s website, attending meetings with executives or other employees, or even asking questions during interviews. Then discuss how you use those values to guide your day-to-day activities. For example, if the company emphasizes customer service, talk about how you prioritize customer satisfaction in all aspects of your work. Finally, emphasize any successes that you have had in aligning your work with the company’s mission and values.

Example: “I stay informed of the company’s mission and values by reading up on the company’s website and attending meetings with executives and other employees. I use this knowledge to make sure that I’m always working towards the company’s long-term goals. For example, if the company emphasizes customer service, I make sure that I prioritize customer satisfaction in all aspects of my work. I have been successful in this endeavor, as I have received several customer service awards for my work. I believe that it’s important to understand the company’s mission and values, as it helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.”

17. How do you evaluate and select potential new sales representatives?

Sales representatives are the face of your company and the ones responsible for bringing in new business and meeting the company’s sales goals. It’s important for the interviewer to know that you have a process for selecting the right candidates for the job. This question allows you to showcase your knowledge of sales processes and qualifications, as well as your ability to evaluate potential candidates.

Start by talking about the criteria you use to evaluate potential sales representatives. This can include things like their experience in sales, communication skills, customer service abilities, and knowledge of the industry or product. Explain how you look for candidates who have a positive attitude, are motivated and driven, and have a proven track record of success. You should also discuss any tests or assessments you may use during the evaluation process, such as role-playing scenarios or aptitude tests. Finally, explain how you would use this information to decide which candidate is best suited for the job.

Example: “When evaluating potential sales representatives, I look for candidates who have a strong background in sales, excellent communication and customer service skills, and a deep understanding of the industry or product. I also look for candidates who demonstrate a positive attitude, are motivated, and have a track record of success. During the evaluation process, I use a combination of assessments, such as role-playing scenarios and aptitude tests, to get a better understanding of how the candidate would fit into the role. Based on the results of these tests, I am able to make an informed decision on which candidate is the best fit for the job.”

18. How do you prioritize tasks when there is not enough time or resources to complete everything?

Salespeople are often juggling multiple tasks and competing demands. With limited time and resources, it’s important for a potential hire to demonstrate that they can strategically prioritize tasks in order to maximize results. The interviewer is looking to understand how you prioritize tasks and manage competing demands.

Begin by talking about how you assess the urgency of each task and prioritize accordingly. Explain that you take into account both short-term and long-term goals when prioritizing tasks, as well as any deadlines or customer expectations. You can also mention any specific techniques you use to help prioritize tasks, such as creating a list of priorities or using project management tools like Trello or Asana. Finally, emphasize your ability to adjust plans quickly if needed, as well as your willingness to ask for help or delegate tasks when necessary.

Example: “When faced with limited time and resources, I always strive to prioritize tasks in a way that maximizes results. I begin by assessing the urgency of each task and then prioritize accordingly, taking into account any deadlines or customer expectations. To help me stay organized, I often create a list of priorities or use project management tools like Trello or Asana. I understand that plans can change quickly and that it’s sometimes necessary to ask for help or delegate tasks. My goal is always to make the most of the time and resources that I have available.”

19. What strategies do you use to set up an ergonomic desk space so you can comfortably and efficiently work on sales calls?

The ability to work comfortably and efficiently on sales calls is essential for success in this role. This question allows interviewers to evaluate your understanding of the importance of ergonomics, as well as your ability to think ahead and plan for the most comfortable and effective workspace.

The best way to answer this question is to walk the interviewer through your process step by step. Start with discussing the importance of ergonomics and how it can help you be more productive and comfortable on sales calls. Then, explain what steps you take to set up an ergonomic desk space, such as adjusting the height of your chair, positioning your monitor at eye level, and using a headset for hands-free communication. Finally, discuss any additional tools or accessories that you use to make sure you have the most comfortable workspace possible.

Example: “I believe that ergonomics is essential for successful sales calls because it helps me stay comfortable and focused for long periods of time. To create an ergonomic desk space, I start by adjusting the height of my chair so that my feet are flat on the floor and my knees are at a 90-degree angle. I then position my monitor at eye level, so I’m not straining my neck or back while looking at the screen. I also use a headset for hands-free communication, as it allows me to move around and use a mouse without having to hold a phone. Additionally, I make sure to take frequent breaks to stretch and move around, which helps me stay focused and productive.”

20. How often do you perform audits in your current role?

Audits are an important part of any sales position. They help you track your performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure you’re staying within the boundaries of company policy. Interviewers want to make sure you’re aware of the importance of audits and that you’re already in the habit of conducting them regularly.

Talk about how often you audit your performance in your current role, and explain why it’s important to do so. You can also discuss any processes or tools that you use to help with the auditing process, such as tracking software or customer feedback surveys. Finally, talk about what you’ve learned from past audits and how you apply those lessons to your work today.

Example: “I currently perform audits on my sales performance every month. I use a combination of tracking software and customer feedback surveys to assess my performance in areas such as conversion rate, customer satisfaction, and average order value. I’ve found that this process helps me identify areas where I can improve, and it also serves as a great motivator to keep pushing myself to reach my goals. I’ve been able to use the insights I’ve gained from performing monthly audits to become more efficient and successful in my sales role.”

20 Must-Know Computer Science Professor Interview Questions (With Answers)

20 common records manager interview questions and answers, you may also be interested in..., 30 dispatch assistant interview questions and answers, 30 community relations manager interview questions and answers, 30 market researcher interview questions and answers, 30 dermatology nurse practitioner interview questions and answers.

(781) 327-8910

How to Prepare for a Mock Sales Presentation in a Job Interview

8 Steps to Crush the Mock Sales Presentation in the Job Interview

Interviewing for a sales job is nerve racking enough as is. From the initial phone screen with a recruiter, to a few different in-person interviews with members of the sales team, to completing any assessments or projects, to meeting with the hiring manager…it can be a lot.

You’ve done it all and made it to the final stages of the sales interview process seamlessly. Well done.

Now you’re onto one of the last steps of the process… completing a mock sales presentation.

What is a mock sales presentation?

A mock sales presentation is a common exercise during the sales interview process for companies to gauge a candidate’s ability to present a product/solution, as well as determine how that candidate runs a meeting, and holds the attention of a room. The hiring manager is trying to understand the candidate’s ability to sell, and determine if they are the right salesperson to hire who can effectively sell the value of their product/service to a decision maker. They are evaluating your hard and soft selling skills.

As a contending candidate for the sales job you’re interviewing for, the mock sales presentation is an opportunity for you to do your homework, practice, and come prepared to knock the sales presentation out of the park. OR it’s a chance for you to not prepare, “wing it,” and throw away your chances of getting the job offer.

Now let’s assume if you’re reading this post, you want this sales job and want to crush your mock sales presentation. If that’s the case, read on…

Here are 8 steps to help you prepare for your mock sales presentation.

1. Embrace the Awkwardness of Role-Playing

A mock sales presentation is role-playing. It’s make believe, it’s weird, it’s awkward…it’s supposed to be. That is the point. Companies want to see how you perform and what you do when you are asked to do something outside of your comfort zone. Go own it.

2. Do Your Homework

Collect the necessary information you need to prepare for this assignment. Usually, the company will provide you with a scenario and sales presentation details, including: where are you in the sales cycle, the goal of the meeting, reading materials, an itinerary with titles, and a slide deck to work off of.

If they do not supply this information, ask for it. You would have all this information going into a real sales meeting, so you should have it now.

3. Understand You Are NOT an Expert

In preparation for your presentation, understand that you are NOT supposed to be a complete expert on this company or their products…that is not the point of exercise. You want to be knowledgeable of the company and its products, but this is a test of your soft skills and how you present. You do this every day. Show them how you do it.

{ Related Article: 30 Ways to Ruin an Interview in 30 Seconds }

4. Do Not Go Overboard With Your Slide Deck

You will build out a slide deck of content, do not go over the top. Try not to make too many slides. There are great tools and technology that can help you outline your presentation. Remember that PowerPoint is a tool to help present but that it is not THE presentation. You should also email the slide deck to yourself before the meeting and you may also want to have a few print outs just in case.

{Get Even More Prepared! Watch this Video on How to Prepare for a Mock Sales Presentation Below}

5. Set the Stage for the Performance

Game day is here. You’ve prepared and practiced, now it’s time to perform.

Show up to the office early (don’t be late). Arriving 10-15 minutes early is appropriate, especially if you need time to set up your presentation.
Dress the part (professional attire is always your best bet). You don’t want an outfit that distracts your audience and takes away from your presentation. Keep it classy with a suit and tie (no Daffy Duck ties), or a dress/skirt and simple blouse.
Have your slide deck and other materials with you. Technology may not always cooperate so make sure you have everything you need to present if things go awry.
Set the stage before going right into the role-play. When you enter the room for the mock sales presentation, reconfirm who everyone is (the parts they play) and where you are in the sales process. Once all of that is clear, it’s showtime.

6. Give the Shakespearean Performance of a Lifetime

It’s time to relax and do what you do… SELL . Stand up with confidence, high energy, make eye contact with everyone around the room, and talk TO your potential customers, not AT them.

They will chime in with questions. Some of the questions will be fair and some of them will not. Do not get frustrated or disheveled. Remember, this is make believe. If you are asked a question that you do not know the answer to, don’t sweat it. That happens all the time in sales. However, do not make up an answer. You would never do that in a legitimate sales meeting so do not do it now. Slow it down, tell them that you do not know the answer but you will do the necessary research to get the answer to him/her by the end of day.

7. Wrap Up With Q&A…Then CLOSE

Like with any sales presentation, make sure you allow the panel to ask questions. Even if they are asking questions throughout the presentation, still give them some time for Q&A to wrap up with you. Again, you would do this in a real sales meeting, so do it here too. And DON’T FORGET TO CLOSE. Just like in any sales meeting, you need to close and ask about next steps.

8. Break Character

Lastly, at the end of the presentation when there are no further questions, it’s time to break character and look for feedback and coaching on your mock sales presentation.

Get back to the interview and ask the hiring manager, “What did you like most about the presentation?”, “What did you like least?”, “What could I improve on?”, “Would any of this approach fit into this sales model?”’

You are showing them that you do not know it all and that you are coachable. They will provide you with some candid feedback and voice their concerns.

*Remember to close the interviewer . After this presentation ask about next steps in the interview process. Make sure you are a top candidate moving forward in the process.

The mock sales interview is a unique step in the interview process and a step to move top candidates towards offer stage. Take pride that you made is this far in the process, and make sure you take the time to prepare and excel at this stage of the interview. Practice makes perfect. Review these 8 mock sales interview steps and go get the job!

SEARCH TREELINE’S SALES JOBS>>

Share this story, choose your platform, related posts.

How Do I Choose an Executive Recruiter for Sales Recruiting?

Staying Positive: Navigating the Job Search with Optimism

Treeline Inc. Named by Clutch as Leading 2022 Global Provider of HR Services to fill Sales Positions

All fields required

First Name (required)

Last Name (required)

Email (required)

What interests you?

Sales Jobs, Advice & Tips Sales Recruiting Best Practices Sales Strategy Advice

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

781-327-8910, [email protected].

Tell us more about your business and how we can help.

Full Name (required)

Company Website (required)

Business Email (required)

Phone Number (required)

Role You Are Recruiting For

What can we help you with?

Expand My Sales Team Improve Sales Recruitment Performance Sales Team Evaluation Compensation Sales Characteristics of Top Performers Create a Sales Job Description Sales Job Tips and Advice

TREELINE INCORPORATED 15 Lincoln Street, Suite 314 Wakefield, MA 01880

Main – (781) 327-8901 Sales – (781) 327-891 0 [email protected]

Quick Links

2024 National Excellence Winner in United States

Privacy Overview

Cookie	Duration	Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional	11 months	The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance	11 months	This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy	11 months	The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.

8 Steps to Ace Your Sales Interview Presentation

You’ve gone through the first formal interview and nailed it. However, now you’ve just received a call from the hiring manager that they want you to complete a sales interview presentation before you receive a job offer. As if the interview wasn’t nerve-wracking enough, you’re now asked to push yourself even further to achieve your dream job.

However, it’s pretty standard for roles to require an interview presentation because it tests the skills of their potential employees, so they know they’re investing in their ideal candidate.

Plus, depending on the role you’re applying for, this skill might be absolutely essential. Especially since 70% of all jobs involve some form of public speaking. Employers want to make sure that you’re able to perform the same way you interview.

In this article, we’ll deep dive into what an interview presentation is, how you can prepare and deliver a killer presentation, and the steps to take after the presentation.

What Is a Sales Interview Presentation?

A sales interview presentation is an opportunity for you to show your skills through a live demonstration. Whether this is a sales pitch or product, employers want to see how competent and confident you are speaking in front of others while presenting the information.

The sales interview presentation is a salesperson’s chance to prove themselves and their selling skills since that’s what they’ll have to do within their job duties.

Asking the right questions, providing the best answers, and delivering an engaging sales pitch can all lead to success in this crucial part of the sales process. So if you want to get that job offer, here are eight steps that will help you ace your next sales interview presentation out of the park!

1. Understand What’s Expected from The Presentation

When you’re told that you’ll need to present a sales interview presentation, you’ll want to take the time to ask the hiring manager for some more information.

What are the sales goals?
What type of product will you be presenting?
How long should your sales presentation last?
Will you be able to use a digital display, or is this an informal speaking presentation?

Make sure that you understand the audience for the presentation. This way you know the expertise level and knowledge they will have about the topic you’re presenting on. From there, you’ll be able to put together a presentation that fits your potential companies needs.

2. Add Visual Aids to Your Presentation

Visual aids can genuinely make the sales interview presentation come to life! Employers want to see how well you can communicate. Using visuals will only enhance your presentation and the amount of engagement on your proposal. However, it’s essential to know your audience and what type of content will hold their attention. For example, you don’t want to show funny images to a serious crowd.

Use a PowerPoint or Keynote with images that complement your message, data tables highlighting numbers and statistics, or even a funny meme. Anything visual should go on slides during your sales pitch, so employers get an idea of who you are as a sales professional. The more interactive your presentation is, the better it’s going to drive home what you’re saying at any given moment in time.

3. Make A List Of Go-To Questions

Presentations usually end with questions, so make sure you’re prepared to answer any inquires on your content. If you’re not confident in your sales skills, now is the time to brush up on some sales questions that might come up.

Here are a few examples of sales-specific questions you may be asked after your presentation:

What’s the key benefit or feature?
How does this product compare with our competitors?
When will it be available for purchase?
If someone buys one today, how much more could they save by making a larger order over a more extended period?

Being prepared with extra information will show that you can handle objections and questions without a problem.

4. Dress The Part

Wearing appropriate attire is crucial if you plan on getting through this part of the sales process unscathed. Of course, business attire is the best option, but it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

Dressing well will also help you feel more confident and professional, making a sales presentation even easier to deliver confidently. Plus, if you’re interviewing for a sales position, then this should come as second nature anyways!

Steps to Ace Your Sales Interview Presentation

5. Practice Your Presentation Out Loud To Yourself

Especially when it comes down to public speaking, practice really does make perfect. So practice your sales pitch out loud, either in front of a mirror or preferably someone else who can provide feedback on your delivery skills and pointers that you may have missed during preparation. If something doesn’t seem to flow, change the wording or content to make it more exciting for your audience!

Ensure all of these elements are covered when you’re practicing: introduction, product information (including features/benefits), closing questions, and a call to action. You’ll want to give it your all to show how you can become a valuable asset to your future company, and being prepared helps you to do just that!

6. Prepare Your Notes

When you’re presenting a sales interview presentation, it’s essential to have your notes in front of you as well so that the information is fresh and easy to remember. In addition, this will make for a more straightforward sales pitch because there are fewer worries about forgetting key points or getting lost during the presentation.

The easiest way to prepare your notes may include writing them at the bottom of your digital slides, keeping content on your slides as a reminder, or writing on notecards.

7. Stay On Topic

When you’re creating your presentation, you want to ensure that you’re staying on topic and that you’re keeping your presentation as brief as possible. In addition, ensure that you’ve covered all of the sales points and have reinforced your main point at the end.

It’s essential to be concise because it will help keep your audience’s attention. They won’t get bored by a lengthy sales pitch or presentation, but if too much information is given, there may not be enough time for them to soak in what you’re saying, leading to frustration on both ends.

Consider the 80/20 Rule

You’ll want to ensure that 80% of your slides are informative and insightful, while 20% of your slides are challenging and thought-provoking. This will ensure that your sales pitch is appealing to most people who are listening while still challenging them to think about what you’re saying.

It’s important not to give away too much information or oversell anything. You want employers asking for more instead of falling asleep or tuning out your presentation.

Delivering Your Presentation

On the day of, you’ll want to make sure to arrive early to the sales presentation. This will give you time to check in, set up your PowerPoint or Keynote, and use the restroom if necessary before it’s time for your sales interview.

The first few minutes of a sales pitch are crucial – they’ll help set the tone for everything that follows, so make sure you’re prepared mentally and emotionally as well as physically before walking into your presentation.

Make eye contact, speak clearly, and don’t be afraid to use your sales skills- they’re what got you this far! Some other tips you should remember during the day of your presentation:

Stand up straight and tall with your arms at your sides, not crossed
Keep a firm handshake
Smile often! This will put the interviewer in a good mood.
Don’t forget to ask questions to keep your audience engaged with your content.

If It Doesn’t Go Well: Don’t Panic!

No matter what happens during sales presentations, don’t panic. If something unexpected happens or mess up, don’t worry- sales are full of surprises! Instead, take a deep breath, restart where you left off, and continue with your presentation.

Making a mistake doesn’t mean that you won’t get the job. Instead, it’s more important how you move forward from messing up. Don’t be afraid to apologize if you need to. You can even ask for feedback on how you can do a better sales presentation in the future from your interviewer.

What To Do After the Presentation

After the sales interview presentation, it’s essential to follow up. Follow-up may include thanking them for their time and asking if they have any additional questions before you leave. They may even schedule a second sales demo with someone else in the company who makes the final hiring decision.

This is also an opportunity to ask about the next steps so that you know how long this process will take at the other end (and whether there are any potential issues). Following up can show initiative on your part as well, which might make all of the difference when it comes down to getting hired!

Get Your Dream Job by Shining During Your Presentation

If it’s not already evident by now- public speaking is no easy task. Especially when it’s to impress your future boss and co-workers. But, thankfully, there are plenty of ways that sales professionals and sales managers alike can make their sales pitch more effective.

A few key points include:

Practicing out loud.
Preparing notes beforehand.
Staying focused and concise during presentations (though not too much).
Being professional during all phases of the job interview process and following up after any sales presentation opportunity.

Get Your Dream Job Today with Sales Recruiters Dallas Inc

If you’ve been searching for the right sales job for a while, you might not know where to find the perfect match. From searching for the right companies to creating resumes and answering the right interview questions, it can be hard to ensure you get your dream job. Thankfully at Sales Recruiters Dallas , we’ve got you covered!

A sales recruiter can be your best sales ally for landing your next dream job. We dedicate ourselves to sales, so we know what sales jobs are available and the process involved in securing that sales position. With our deep industry knowledge of sales, we can help you with your resume or cover letter.

If you’re looking for your next career move, contact us today at Sales Recruiters Dallas , or browse through open jobs to find the position of your dreams!

OnlineExamMaker
Candidate Management System
Question Bank Software
Online Proctoring Software
AI Question Generator
Quiz Certification Creator
Online Survey Maker
Online Exam Tools
ELearning Resources
Learning Management
Questions & Answers
Create a Quiz

10 Sales Representative Interview Questions and Sample Answers

A Sales Representative is responsible for selling products or services to customers, generating leads, building relationships with clients, and meeting sales targets. They play a crucial role in driving revenue growth by understanding customer needs, presenting solutions, and closing deals.

Key Responsibilities :

Lead Generation: Identify potential customers through research, cold calling, networking, and referrals. Client Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing customers. Understand their needs and provide appropriate solutions. Product Knowledge: Maintain a deep understanding of the company’s products or services to effectively communicate features, benefits, and value propositions to customers. Sales Presentations: Prepare and deliver compelling sales presentations and product demonstrations to prospective clients. Negotiation: Negotiate terms of sales agreements, including pricing and contract terms, to ensure a win-win outcome. Sales Targets: Meet or exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets and quotas. Customer Service: Provide post-sale support and handle any issues or concerns to ensure customer satisfaction and retention. Market Research: Stay informed about industry trends, market conditions, and competitors to identify new opportunities and strategies.

Sample Answer : “I have five years of experience in sales, primarily in the technology sector. In my previous role at XYZ Company, I consistently met and exceeded sales targets by identifying customer needs and presenting tailored solutions. This experience has honed my skills in lead generation, customer relationship management, and closing deals, preparing me well for this position.”

2. Question :How do you approach lead generation and what strategies do you use to identify potential clients? Description : This question evaluates the candidate’s methods for generating leads and their ability to find new business opportunities.

Sample Answer : “I use a combination of strategies for lead generation, including cold calling, email campaigns, social media outreach, and attending industry events. I also leverage our CRM system to track and follow up on leads. Networking and asking for referrals from satisfied clients have also been effective in identifying potential clients.”

3. Question :How do you handle objections from potential clients during the sales process? Description : This question assesses the candidate’s ability to manage and overcome objections.

Sample Answer : “When faced with objections, I first listen carefully to understand the client’s concerns. I then address their objections with factual information and benefits of our product, often using customer testimonials and case studies to support my points. I find that demonstrating empathy and providing clear, concise answers helps build trust and overcome objections.”

4. Question :Can you give an example of a successful sale you closed and what made it successful? Description : This question examines the candidate’s ability to close deals and what strategies contributed to their success.

Sample Answer : “In my last job, I closed a significant deal with a large corporation by thoroughly understanding their needs and tailoring my pitch to address their specific challenges. I provided a detailed ROI analysis and a personalized product demonstration, which helped them see the value in our solution. Regular follow-ups and addressing all their concerns promptly led to closing the deal successfully.”

5. Question :How do you stay motivated and productive in a sales environment, especially when facing rejection? Description : This question evaluates the candidate’s resilience and motivation strategies.

Sample Answer : “I stay motivated by setting personal goals and celebrating small wins. I view rejection as a learning opportunity and analyze what went wrong to improve my approach. Staying organized and maintaining a positive mindset helps me stay productive. Additionally, I draw motivation from success stories and positive feedback from clients.”

6. Question :Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult client. How did you handle it? Description : This question assesses the candidate’s interpersonal skills and ability to manage challenging client relationships.

Sample Answer : “I once worked with a client who was very particular about their requirements and frequently changed their specifications. I handled the situation by maintaining open communication and being patient and flexible. I scheduled regular meetings to ensure we were on the same page and provided detailed updates on progress. By being attentive and responsive to their needs, I was able to build a strong relationship and successfully meet their expectations.”

7. Question :How do you prioritize your tasks and manage your time effectively to meet sales targets? Description : This question evaluates the candidate’s organizational and time management skills.

Sample Answer : “I prioritize tasks by focusing on high-impact activities that drive sales, such as prospecting, follow-ups, and closing deals. I use a combination of to-do lists and scheduling tools to manage my daily tasks and ensure I stay on track. Regularly reviewing my progress and adjusting my priorities as needed helps me stay organized and meet my sales targets.”

8. Question :What role does market research play in your sales process, and how do you conduct it? Description : This question assesses the candidate’s understanding of market research and its application in sales.

Sample Answer : “Market research is crucial in understanding customer needs, industry trends, and competitive landscape. I conduct market research by analyzing industry reports, monitoring competitors, and gathering feedback from existing clients. This information helps me tailor my sales approach, identify new opportunities, and provide value to my clients.”

9. Question :Can you explain how you use CRM software to manage your sales activities? Description : This question evaluates the candidate’s familiarity with CRM tools and how they use them to enhance their sales process.

Sample Answer : “I use CRM software to track all interactions with prospects and clients, manage my sales pipeline, and schedule follow-ups. It helps me stay organized and ensures I don’t miss any opportunities. The CRM also provides valuable insights into customer behavior and sales trends, which I use to refine my strategies and improve my performance.”

10. Question :What qualities do you believe are essential for a successful Sales Representative? Description : This question assesses the candidate’s understanding of the key attributes required for success in sales.

Sample Answer : “A successful Sales Representative needs to be a strong communicator and an excellent listener to understand customer needs. They should be persistent, resilient, and able to handle rejection positively. Good organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively are also crucial. Additionally, having a thorough knowledge of the product or service and being able to convey its value to the customer is essential. Lastly, building and maintaining relationships is key to long-term success in sales.”

Automatically generate questions using AI

OnlineExamMaker is an all-in-one online assessment platform offers a wide range of features and tools that enable efficient quiz creation, secure test administration, remote proctoring, and insightful result analysis. OnlineExamMaker includes advanced online proctoring features, ensuring exam integrity and preventing cheating. AI-powered video monitoring, facial recognition, and screen sharing analysis help exam organizers maintain the credibility and fairness of the assessments.

The software offers flexible pricing plans, ensuring that users can choose a plan that suits their specific needs. Even you are using its free version, you are able to create a professional online exam easily. Whether you are a small business owner, HR manager, or trainer, OnlineExamMaker provides the tools you need to create engaging and informative quizzes. Visit the website to explore the features, pricing options, and start creating interactive quizzes today.

Create a hiring assessment with OnlineExamMaker

A Sales Manager is responsible for leading a sales team to achieve sales targets and…

A Sales Analyst plays a crucial role in analyzing sales data, identifying trends, and providing…

A Sales Engineer combines technical knowledge with sales skills to provide pre-sales support to customers…

Share this post:

Author: matt davis.

Matt is a content marketing specialist with more than 5 years of experience in content creation, he is glad to share his experience about online education and digital marketing.

View all posts by Matt Davis

Career Advice
Job Search & Interview
Productivity
Public Speaking and Presentation
Social & Interpersonal Skills
Professional Development
Remote Work

Eggcellent Work

75+ interview presentation topics to showcase your skills.

Employers are thinking outside of the box to ensure that they hire the best of the best. Often, you’ll be asked to make a presentation to show off your confidence and capabilities. Various interview presentation topics can ensure you know just how to highlight your knowledge, talent, and skills.

Table of Contents

The Purpose of a Job Interview Presentation

Across all private companies, the average turnover rate in 2021 was 47% . Some industries and some positions are higher than others.

High turnover is problematic for a number of reasons. Hiring and training are both expensive and time-consuming. The goal is to hire employees who are ready to slide right into the role they were hired for.

This is why interview presentations are being used more and more frequently. Companies use them to put communication skills to the test. You may be asked to prepare a presentation or present a blind one.

Marketing positions may require a presentation to market a particular product. A C-level position may require a strategic outlook for the industry.

Regardless of whether the interview presentation topics are defined or not, the purpose is the same. They want to see various skills portrayed:

Preparedness
Understanding of the subject
Ability to engage with the audience
Ability to stay organized
Ability to communicate
Organization level

Essentially, they want someone who is able to stand out against all of the other candidates.

You can stand out by choosing an interesting presentation topic or a unique way to present it. You’ll also want to show that you meet all of the core competencies of the job description.

How To Cancel An Interview Professionally (with Examples)

How Early Should You Be For An Interview: Interview Etiquette 101

1. New Technology

Talk about the emerging technology within your industry. Talk about specific examples as well as the ways that it is both a help and a hindrance. It’s important to show that you’re up on the latest technologies as the company you’re interviewing for may soon be moving to it.

Discuss how you feel about the technology but try to stay positive. Especially if you don’t know how the company feels about it, you don’t want to establish friction. This topic can be a great presentation example for tech-related roles.

Here are 5 examples on new technology interview presentation topics:

How is artificial intelligence changing the healthcare industry?
How can augmented reality enhance retail shopping experiences?
How are autonomous vehicles shaping the future of transportation?
How is cybersecurity evolving in the age of remote work?
How can blockchain technology improve data security?

2. An Emerging Industry Trend

Discuss an emerging trend within your industry. It can be helpful to share some specific statistics so that you can identify that you’re familiar with doing research.

Explain why you think the trend is a good one or a bad one. Open it up to a Q&A so that you can address questions and concerns about the trend. This can show the interviewer your ability to stay updated with industry trends.

Here are 5 examples on emerging industry trend interview presentation topics:

How is the trend of remote work influencing the future of the workplace?
How are sustainability initiatives shaping the fashion industry?
How is the demand for personalization influencing the retail industry?
How is the demand for organic products influencing the agriculture industry?
What impact is the rise of plant-based diets having on the food industry?

Read More: 8 Best Trainer Interview Presentation Topics

3. A Solution to a Common Problem

Many companies are looking for problem solvers. The interview presentation topics are your chance to prove that you are capable of solving their problems. This can be a great way to demonstrate your soft skills and problem-solving abilities.

Tell the story of the problem that consumers (or businesses) are having. Then, go into detail as to how you plan to solve the problem. Use graphics or props to drive your point home.

Here are 5 examples on solution to a common problem interview presentation topics:

What are innovative ways to improve literacy rates in underserved communities?
How can we reduce food waste at the household level?
What are effective strategies for reducing single-use plastic consumption?
How can we encourage more people to use public transportation?
How can we encourage more people to participate in physical activities?
How To Describe Your Leadership Style In 3 Words [Best Answers]
10 Best Topics For Marketing Interview Presentation

4. A Published Paper

Present a paper that you have published – or a paper that someone else has published. Give credit where it is due.

If you presented the paper, it shows that you have been published because of your ideas, research, or concepts. If it was written by another, it demonstrates that you are well-read.

Talk about why the paper is important. Be sure to highlight the main points in a compelling way. This can provide insightful information about your research skills and knowledge in your field.

Here are 5 examples on this interview presentation topics:

What are the implications of the recent study on childhood education and long-term success?
What are the key findings of the latest research on emotional intelligence and leadership?
What are the implications of the latest paper on the impact of AI on job markets?
What are the key takeaways from the recent paper on quantum physics?
What are the implications of the recent study on mental health and social media?

5. A Project You’ve Worked On

Talk about a project that you’ve worked on as a topic for interview presentation. Explain the purpose of the project, why you feel that you were capable of adding value to it and what you’ve learnt from that experience.

Be sure that you don’t make disparaging comments about a previous employer. Regardless of the good and bad aspects of the project, keep it civil.

Here are what I’ve learnt from organizing a large-scale event in my previous job
Lessons drawn from launching a new website for my current organization
Knowledge acquired from creating a content marketing strategy for SaaS client
Insights gained from developing a training program to enhance employee skills
What did taking part in improving operational efficiency in my previous organization teach me about the importance of clear communication, process optimization, and continuous improvement in achieving business goals?

6. Portfolio of Your Work

This is a great time to toot your horn and show off some of your past work and your accomplishment. This can be a great case study of your abilities and talents.

Especially if you’re involved with marketing and/or graphics, the best way to show off your expertise is by literally promoting all that you have done in the past.

Although you want to show off, be sure you provide a true presentation. Explain your thought process behind why you chose a specific font or went with a particular presentation method. Let the hiring team in on how your portfolio came to be the way that it is.

If you’re a writer and editor, present a selection of writing works, such as articles, blog posts, or reports, demonstrating your writing and editing skills.
If you’re a project manager, discuss a series of projects you’ve managed, showing your ability to plan, coordinate, and oversee tasks effectively.
If you’re a marketing specialist, showcase a selection of marketing campaigns you’ve worked on, demonstrating your creativity and strategic thinking.
If you’re a coder or software developer, showcase a selection of software or apps you’ve developed, demonstrating your coding skills and problem-solving abilities.
If you’re a teacher or trainer, present a selection of training programs you’ve developed and delivered, demonstrating your teaching skills and ability to convey complex information clearly.

7. Favorite Course/Instructor

When you’re fresh out of college and don’t have a lot of work experience, you have to think outside of the box. Talk about a specific course you took in school or an instructor that you enjoyed.

Explain what you learned and why it was different. Showcase some of the unique ways that information was presented and why you’re glad you took the course/instructor.

This can show the interviewer your passion for learning and your favorite subjects.

How did a course on creative writing improve my communication skills?
What impact did a course on health and wellness have on my lifestyle choices?
What did I learn from a course on educational psychology about learning processes?
How did Noam Chomsky’s linguistics course shape my understanding of language?
What did I learn from Richard Thaler’s behavioral economics course?

Read More: The Top Five Weird Interview Questions You May Want to Be Ready For

8. Leadership Experience

Presenting your leadership experience in an interview showcases your ability to manage teams, make decisions, and drive results. It allows you to demonstrate your interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

Discussing a leadership role you’ve held, the challenges you faced, and the lessons you learned can provide valuable insights into your capabilities.

What did my experience as a club president teach me about organizational leadership?
How did leading a volunteer initiative shape my understanding of community leadership?
What did I learn about conflict resolution from my experience as a team leader?
What did my experience as a military officer teach me about leadership under pressure?
What did I learn about motivation from my experience as a sports team captain?

9. Ethical Considerations

Talking about ethical considerations in an interview shows you know right from wrong in work situations. It shows you can make good choices when faced with ethical dilemmas.

Sharing a story about an ethical problem you faced and how you solved it can tell a lot about your character. It’s important to talk about these situations in a respectful and careful way, showing you value doing the right thing.

What are the ethical implications of artificial intelligence?
Should you use company resources for personal use?
What should we do when we witness unfair treatment at work?
What should we do when asked to perform a task that goes against our personal ethics?
What are the ethical implications of animal testing?

10. Industry Challenges and Solutions

Talking about industry challenges and solutions in an interview shows you understand and interested in the field you’re working in. It shows you can identify problems and come up with ways to solve them.

Sharing a story about a big challenge in your industry and how you would fix it can show you’re a problem-solver. This can impress the interviewer and show you’re ready for the job.

How can the healthcare industry overcome the challenge of rising costs?
What are the key challenges in the education sector and what solutions could be implemented?
How can the construction industry tackle the issue of labor shortages?
How can the automotive industry adapt to the rise of electric vehicles?
How can the tourism industry recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic?

11. Unique Hobbies and Interests

One way to add a personal touch to your interview presentation is by highlighting your unique hobbies and interests. This not only showcases your personality but also demonstrates your ability to be well-rounded and passionate about things outside of work.

How has my interest in chess enhanced my strategic thinking?
What insights have I gained from my hobby of building model ships?
How does my interest in urban farming reflect my commitment to sustainable living?
What have I learned from my hobby of home brewing?
How has my interest in astrophotography influenced my perspective on life?

12. Your Significant Achievement

In your job interview presentation, one powerful strategy lies in demonstrating your career highlights . Take the opportunity to narrate stories of key accomplishments using compelling data and visuals .

Through this approach, you can showcase not just what you’ve done, but how well you’ve done it. Highlight projects where you made a significant impact or drove impressive results. By doing so, it offers evidence of your skills and ability to deliver desirable outcomes in real-world scenarios, thereby setting yourself apart from other candidates with similar qualifications or experience levels.

Transparency about success metrics also lends authenticity to your claims and underscores your analytical mindset, two traits prized by employers across all industries.

If you are a fresh graduate, you can showcase your academic achievements to demonstrate to the potential employer that you are diligent, focused, and capable of applying the theoretical knowledge you’ve gained to real-world situations.

How I boost company revenue by 30% through a successful product launch
My strategy I used to raise $50,000 for a local charity
How I overcome a major project challenge that resulted in 20% increase in output
How I increase customer satisfaction rates by 50%
How I achieve an academic goal that placed me in the top 10% of my class

13. Case Study Analysis

Presenting a case study analysis in an interview shows you can look at a real-life problem, think about it deeply, and find a solution.

It shows you can use your knowledge and skills to solve complex issues. Sharing how you analyzed a case study and what you learned can show you’re a good thinker and problem-solver, which is important for many jobs.

Analyzing the success of Tesla’s direct-to-consumer sales model
How Starbucks created a global coffee culture
Analyzing the success of Zara’s fast fashion business model
How Airbnb disrupted the hospitality industry
Analyzing the success of Spotify’s subscription business model

13. Company Analysis

Talking about the company you’re interviewing for is one of the best topics for interview presentation. It shows you’ve done your homework, understand what the company does and what issues it might face.

Sharing your thoughts on the company’s strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities can show you’re serious about the job and ready to contribute. This can impress the interviewer and increase your chances of getting hired.

What is the company’s competitive position in the market?
How does the company respond to industry trends and disruptions?
How has the company performed financially and what are its growth prospects?
How efficient is the company’s supply chain and operations?
How is the company perceived as an employer by job seekers?

14. Arts and Culture

Incorporating arts and culture into your job interview presentation can set you apart from other candidates and showcase your unique perspective . You can discuss how your background in the arts has shaped your creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to think outside the box .

Share examples of projects or experiences that demonstrate your passion for different art forms or cultural movements . By highlighting how these influences have positively impacted your professional development, you will show potential employers that you bring a fresh and innovative approach to their organization.

How can digital art skills be applied in modern marketing strategies?
How can cultural celebrations foster inclusion in the workplace?
What role do books play in shaping our worldview?
How can museums become more accessible and engaging for the general public?
How can art education benefit lifelong learning and creativity?

Understand the Presentation Requirements

There’s nothing worse than under-delivering an interview presentation. Once a company tells you that you will need to provide a presentation, there are some things that you should clarify.

Find out if there are interview presentation topics that you should focus on. This way, you can stay on topic.

Learn about the time limit that you’re given. Most companies will provide you with 5 or 10 minutes. You’ll want to ask about the time allotment because you don’t want to stop at 5 when they were expecting 10. You also don’t want to be cut short if they were expecting only 5 minutes.

You should also ask about the presentation delivery that they’re going to offer you. For example, will you have access to a projector and screen to deliver a PowerPoint? Will you have a dry erase board that you can draw on?

Ask the hiring manager for as much clarification as you need. Remember, asking these questions may be a part of the interview process, too.

5-Minute Presentation Ideas

When you are only given 5 minutes, you have to be clear about your topic. Keep it simple so that you can show your expertise without going in too many directions. It’s best to limit yourself to one or two main points.

Think about this. The average person speaks at a rate of 150 words per minute. You only have 750 words that you can speak.

You’ll actually need fewer words than this because you’ll want to pause periodically for emphasis. Plus, you’ll want to allow time for a quick Q&A.

Some ideas to help you:

Use a PowerPoint so that you can stay on point
Use photos and animation to make your point without having to say it all
Time yourself to avoid running out of time

Here are some examples for 5-minute interview presentation topics . These topics are straightforward and can be presented effectively within a short timeframe:

Benefits of daily exercise and how to make it a daily habit
Tips for effective time management
Tips to boost public speaking confidence
The power of positive thinking and how it can enhance overall well-being
Tips to overcome procrastination

10-Minute Presentation Ideas

When you are given 10 minutes, you have plenty of time to dive into your topic. 10 minutes is actually quite a bit of time, so be sure you are thorough.

Here are a few ideas to help:

Start with an opener, whether it’s a video or a storytelling moment
Pause after a few minutes to ask a question or to shift focus
Allow for plenty of material to fill those 10 minutes

As you get into some of the longer presentations, it can be difficult for the hiring team to remember all that you covered. Think about bringing a presentation folder for everyone that will be in the room. This way, they can follow along and have something to remember you by.

Here are some examples for 10-minute interview presentation topics . These topics are more complex than the 5-minute ones, requiring a bit more depth:

Importance of networking and how to build and maintain professional relationships
Strategies to achieve work-life balance
Discuss benefits and drawbacks of remote work and solutions for common challenges
How to leverage technology to improve productivity
How to maximize the benefits of commuting time for personal growth or relaxation

Below is the template that you can use for your 10-minute presentation for interview to help you stay focused:

Slide 1: Introduction (1 minute)

Title of the presentation Your name and role Brief overview of the topic Why the topic is important

Slide 2: About You (1 minute)

Brief professional background Relevant skills and experiences Connection to the topic

Slide 3: Context or Problem Statement (1 minute)

Background information or context Description of the problem or issue Why this problem is significant

Slide 4: Your Approach or Solution (1-2 minutes)

Your proposed solution or approach Why you chose this approach Any evidence or examples supporting your approach

Slide 5: Implementation (1-2 minutes)

How your solution can be implemented Potential challenges and how to overcome them Expected outcomes or benefits

Slide 6: Case Study or Example (1-2 minutes)

A specific example or case study that demonstrates your approach What was achieved and lessons learned How this example supports your overall argument

Slide 7: Connection to the Company (1 minute)

How your topic relates to the company or role How your approach or solution could benefit the company How your skills and experiences make you a good fit

Slide 8: Conclusion and Next Steps (1 minute)

Recap of your main points Your conclusion or final thoughts Next steps or actions Thank the audience and invite questions

Remember, this is just a template, and you should feel free to adjust it as necessary to fit your specific needs. The key is to keep your presentation concise and engaging within the given time frame.

Create an Interesting Presentation for Your Upcoming Interview

You have to be sure that you provide enough information in your presentation to wow those who are doing the hiring. This means that they’re going to look at the interesting presentation topic you’ve chosen and how you’ve presented it.

Communication is a critical component in so many different jobs, from representatives to analysts to managers. You have to demonstrate your confidence and your capabilities, which include public speaking skills.

Here are a few tips to help you nail your interview presentation:

Use innovative technology throughout
Record your speech on a digital recorder and listen to it
Bring a prop to use, such as a small dry erase board
Practice your presentation in front of a mirror

Run through your presentation a few times. Write it out, time it, and practice it until you’re comfortable with every aspect.

You only get one interview with a hiring team of a company, so it’s critical that you deliver the best possible presentation. Give some thought to the company’s objectives so you can incorporate them into your presentation.

With the right interview presentation topics, you can be thoughtful and highlight your skills. Each presentation you make should be a learning experience. If you don’t get the first job you present for, you’ll know where to improve for the next one.

Is HR Interview a Formality? – The Realistic Truth About HR Interviews
7 Tips To Impress an Interviewer in 30 Seconds
Best Response To An Interview Thank You Email From Interviewees
Signing NDA Before Interview: When You Should (And Shouldn’t) Sign
What To Expect During an Interview With a Japanese Employer (And How To Crush It!)
Why “Looking For New Challenges” May Not Be a Good Answer When Interviewing for New Jobs
How To Get A Job After Being Fired For Attendance In 8 Easy Steps

Jenny Palmer

Founder of Eggcellentwork.com. With over 20 years of experience in HR and various roles in corporate world, Jenny shares tips and advice to help professionals advance in their careers. Her blog is a go-to resource for anyone looking to improve their skills, land their dream job, or make a career change.

Should You Rush the Hiring Process by Lying About Having Another Job Offer?

best answer for interview question tell me about yourself

6 Best Answers for Interview Question “Tell Me About Yourself” (With Examples)

10 Best Topics For Civil Service Presentation Interview

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

A Comprehensive Guide To Consulting Exit Opportunities [2024]

In this section

Second Interview Presentations

It is the norm to be asked to prepare a presentation at the second stage for a sales vacancy. Often a topic is already requested but more often than not the topic is ‘Why are you right for the job?’

I would go so far as to say that a good discipline is to prepare a second interview presentation along these lines, even if you haven’t been asked to prepare one. The effort in putting together a presentation that matches your quality, skills and experience against the job requirements will give you the edge on the day and will really make you think that you are making the right decision in joining this organisation.

It shouldn’t take any more than two hours to put together and will be there to turn to if the meeting really isn’t going in the direction that you had planned.

If you've gotten ahead of yourself and perhaps need advice on first interviews, you can have a look at all our advice on 'how to WOW at a first interview' .

GOLDEN RULE: However, an absolute DON’T is to use your presentation as a ‘safety blanket’ when you haven’t been asked to prepare one, i.e. Interviewer: ‘How do you expect to penetrate into the following markets....?’ You (tucking into your briefcase) ‘well I have a presentation here, that.....’ ONLY use the presentation during the meeting as a last resort.

What the presentation should be short (no more than ten minutes if you have to deliver it) and no more than ten sheets or slides). It should contain:

Why you want to work for the company – key facts, direction, etc.

Why you want this particular job – the opportunity, etc.

What benefits you can bring to the company – experience, strengths, values, etc.

Your training and development requirements to succeed

Why you are the right person for the role

You may also want to include how you would plan, your approach, how you would structure your working day/week/month/quarter.

How you would impose key performance indicators upon yourself to attain and exceed targets.

GOLDEN RULE 2: The employer knows their business better than you. Keep it general, don’t quote specific accounts that you could bring to the company, the account values, etc.

GOLDEN RULE 3: Always take at least three printed copies of your presentation to the meeting and hand them out at the end. The adage of remembering just 25% of what you’ve heard after 24 hours is true and most hiring decisions are made after a period of deliberation that is typically 24-48 hours. Your presentation document just might have the memory trigging tags to make the decision swing your way!

Obscure second interview questions

You may be asked to prepare a presentation with a title such as ‘The features and benefits of a ping pong ball’ or ‘Nature or Nurture, what is more important?’ or ‘You work for a paperclip manufacturer and you have to sell the features and benefits of a paperclip’ (all of the three detailed here are factual cases!)

Why do employers do this? It may appear churlish but it’s a demonstration of lateral thinking, willingness to go the extra mile, creative thinking, negotiation, commercial flair and above all salesmanship. It's also a test of commitment to the job - how much effort will you put in to 'land the deal', are you prepared to ‘jump through the hoops’!

If you fancy a list of common interview questions, we've assembled a list of the most common interview questions here .

Obscure Presentation Example: The Paperclip Presentation

As an example I’m going to use ‘You work for a paperclip manufacturer and you have to sell the features and benefits of a paperclip’ (which incidentally, is the standard second interview presentation for a major household FMCG brand).

Many treat the presentation as a game and present it as a game and make it fun and light hearted - they invariably don't get offered the job. Others put together a jazzy presentation on paper clips, their variety of uses and pitch accordingly. Where they fail is that unless you understand the need you can't sell anything – the adage of ‘diagnosing the illness before prescribing the medicine!’

A perfect way of executing this exercise is as follows and please tune it accordingly to the ‘obscure presentation’ that you may have been asked to prepare!

First off. Enter the meeting. 'Thank you very much for inviting me here today to discuss your urgent paperclip requirements. I understand from our discussions last week that today you are looking to agree a preferred supplier of paperclips and I understand that Ben, you are the Group Purchasing Director and Fred you are the, Group Finance Director. I also understand that you are looking to make a decision on a supplier today – is that correct?’ (by doing this they cannot use the objection of - we're not the right person, we're not in a position to make a decision today, etc'.)

Start the presentation with an overview of ‘Paperclips 'R' Us’ (or whatever) - history, services - holding stock, 3 day delivery, ability to supply volume, quality of product, ability to bespoke to need, etc.

It's imperative that YOU ask THEM early on 'what is your budget' - then you might find that you can easily sell to them on price.

Collect a handful of different types of paper clips (shapes, styles, colours), etc.

Ask them to touch the product (you can’t beat a kinaesthetic sale!)

Paint a couple, put tippex on a couple, wrap some coloured tape around some – whatever – I know it sounds somewhat strange but going this extra mile will make the difference!

Then probe to understand their needs - prepare 15 or so questions around the type of paperclip that they require, the volume, added value services, etc.

Prepare a slide per type of paperclip so that you can go into the detail of their preferred clip and skip past the ones that aren't right for their need and explain why

If asked price answer something like - 'I know that price is important to both of us but can we park this just for a moment until I fully understand your needs. I am confident that I will be able to propose a price that is both attractive and works for both of us'

Then pitch the product - the features, examples, benefits of the paperclip that is the solution to their need (have a brainstorm with yourself about exactly what benefits there could be – the amount of paper it can hold, flexibility, uniqueness of the colour, etc. think of every imaginable feature and benefit!)

Then ‘semi close’ - Do you agree that this is the right paperclip for you? Are there any further features that they would like you me to detail? What do we have to do to make the deal today?

Prepare bartering chips other than price - stock holding, delivery time, volumes, payment terms, etc - if you negotiate down on price ensure you give nothing away and always get something in return. Remember, negotiation is where both parties leave happy and it’s a win-win - not where one is battered on price, that’s called discounting!

If you are getting nothing but positives then close it down

Get agreement to product, volume, additional required services, total cost, etc.

Go one step further and pre-prepare an order form - get it out of your briefcase and get them to sign it on the spot!

If they don't agree to this as a minimum get agreement to the next meeting and an agenda for what you will propose - i.e. you'll go back to your R&D department to bespoke accordingly, you'll look at cheaper raw materials to get the price down, etc.

Pre-prepare a price list so that when you get their signature on the dotted line you can detail how well you negotiated to secure the deal!

Remember never give anything away for nothing - everything is tradable and barter accordingly to secure a price and service that is right for both parties!

Go the ‘extra mile and a half’ by creating a logo for the paperclip business, an order form, business card, price list - it'll only take an hour or two but could really make the difference between you and the other interviewees.

Thank them for their time (and their business); close the meeting and job done!

As you can see we have now taken a somewhat trite and childish presentation title into a 'full on' business pitch. This approach will demonstrate how you will succeed in their organisation by questioning, understanding needs, pitching product, negotiating, closing, etc.

Good luck with putting together your second interview questions and we hope that you found this useful!

Second Interview Presentation Video

Navigate our Second Interview Advice

by clicking the following icons:

Second Interview Research

A icon displaying second interview preparations

Wow At Second Interview

How To Close At Second Interview

How to WOW at Second Interview
Researching for Second Interviews
Second Interviews - How to Negotiate Salary Package
How to Close at Second Interview
Great Tips for Second Interviews
Second Interview Presentations Video
How to Follow Up on an Interview
How to Wow at Second Interview - Video and Transcript

Date published: 28th February 2024

Submit your CV

Take the first step towards your new role today

Search jobs

With hundreds of jobs available, now is the time to look for your perfect position

A photo of Simon Bonner, Aaron Wallis Sales Recruitment

by Simon Bonner

Associate Director

About the author

Simon Bonner

With over 25 years in B2B sales and recruitment, Simon is an English Graduate from UEA and specialises in recruiting commercial and FMCG sales positions. Simon joined the sales recruitment industry in 1998 before progressing into field sales and returning to recruitment in 2015. As an Associate Director, Simon is well placed to understand the needs of clients and candidates' needs, having spent ten years selling electronic security and managing National Accounts within OEM manufacturers and distribution channels. An avid Luton Town football fan, Simon dotes on his two daughters and enjoys keeping fit, socialising, food and wine.

Please call us to discuss your next move

Milton Keynes

01908 061 400

01543 509400

01454 320400

0113 243 4400

Account Manager

£35000 - £37000 per annum + £80K OTE + Hybrid Working

Business Development Manager

£50000 - £60000 per annum + Car, Pension, uncapped OTE, Benefits

Peterborough

Account Director, Professional Services

£64000 - £65000 per annum + + Bonuses + Remote Working

Sales Administrator

£26000 - £28000 per annum + Bonus + Pension + Health + Progression

Bedfordshire

Technical Account Manager

Up to £50000 per annum + Bonuses and Extensive Benefits Package

Sales Account Manager, Education, Training Provider

Up to £30000 per annum + Commision

International Sales Manager - Process Instrumentation

Up to £65000 per annum + Car Allowance + Bonus

Northampton

Graduate Procurement Administrator

£25000 - £28000 per annum + + Hybrid Working + Benefits

Remote Working International Sales Executive

Up to £30000 per annum

Sales and Account Manager

Up to £30000 per annum + Pension,Uncapped OTE, Benefits

Hertfordshire

Field Sales Account Manager

£32500 - £35000 per annum + Car, Pension, Uncapped OTE, Benefits

Internal Account Manager

£25000 - £30000 per annum + £50K OTE + Benefits

From our blog

How Much Does Your Commute Cost?

How To Advance and Enhance Your Career When You Are Working Remotely

How to Introduce a Competency-Based Approach into Your Recruitment Process

How to Prepare a 90 Day Business Plan Presentation

How to Evaluate Sales Professionals

What to Wear to a Sales Interview in the Post-Covid Era

Our employers say...

Since joining DSGi, Rob has been a supplier of permanent staff and has performed to an extremely high standard, successfully filling 98% of roles he has worked on. If anyone is looking for a good sales and marketing based consultancy with an informal yet professional approach, I would recommend Rob.

Senior Recruitment Consultant, DSG International

George is a rare find in the world of recruitment - communicative without being pushy or over-bearing. He listens and understands what the customer needs as gets to know the business to ensure he provides fully competent candidates who fit.

HR Manager, Big Dug

I really liked the YouTube presentations which made the service seem both simple and accessible. The company came to see me, and my management team, at short notice to present their service and I liked the support and advice that I received about maximising the results from the applicant.

Managing Director, Leisuresec plc

George is a joy to work with, and I'd recommend him to anyone seeking that unicorn hire - he found me mine, and I'm delighted!

Director, Education Support

We appointed Aaron Wallis in February and the successful candidate, out of the six which Aaron Wallis introduced, was able to join Alphametrics before the end of April. The whole process took less than three months. I would recommend Aaron Wallis' services to others without hesitation.

Chief Financial Officer, Alphametrics

I found Aaron Wallis to be very professional and efficient, taking time to understand the role and the type of candidate we were looking for. The candidates they put forward met our criteria and were of a high standard. The service they provided was exemplary and I would have no hesitation in recommending them, and will certainly consider using them again in the future.

HR Assistant, Fischer Connectors Ltd

I have used Aaron Wallis to fill a number of our Sales Development Manager roles and I have found them to provide a very professional service. I will use their services again in future recruitment campaigns.

HR Business Partner, Greene King

Aaron Wallis has continuously provided us with suitable candidates that have been proactively sourced. Having used countless recruitment companies, Aaron Wallis are the only company that I can count on to deliver.

Managing Director, JARK Healthcare Recruitment

Really good service. Just the right amount of contact and easy to deal with.

HR Manager, Zircon Software Ltd

Giles Phillips is a rare find in the minefield of sales recruitment; an honest and thoughtful recruiter who considers the needs of both the client AND the candidate to create perfect role matches. I look forward to working with him again in the future.

Marketing Director, City of London Police

Giles is highly professional and was a pleasure to work with. He achieves excellent results through his personable skills and tenacity. I have no hesitation in recommending Giles to anyone who considers employing his services.

Commercial Director, G4S Government & Outsourcing Solutions

George came recommended by a colleague and has been a pleasure to work with. He was great at updating us on his progress and ensured a great experience for both client and candidate.

HR Manager, Annapurna Recruitment Ltd

I can't fault Sam or AW! Sam was a pleasure to work with and provided great support from the start. Sam always provided me with timely updates when required and provided outstanding candidates!

Director, Waste Managed Ltd

I could not suggest anything I would like you to do better. The service you provided materially exceeded my expectations. I would especially like to commend Simon Bonner; he is easily the best recruitment consultant I have ever dealt with. I particularly valued his advice and guidance throughout the recruitment process.

UK Sales Manager, BTS Holdings Limited

Rob’s knowledge of the recruitment industry and his thoughts and how to make it better for his clients have always been eye opening. I would recommend Rob to anybody who is looking for a professional, knowledgeable and flexible recruitment specialist.

CEO, Friday Ad Online Services

As always we were extremely impressed with Rob's understanding of the role and our specific needs.

Managing Director, Speck & Burke

Generally good standard of candidates. Especially liked the personality profile. Overall good value for money and will certainly use you again.

Managing Director, Medicash

Rob is a true recruitment professional that goes the extra mile that I have never experienced from any other recruitment agency before. If you need sales people call Rob or someone in his team, as they really are experts in sales recruitment.

Sales Director, Inside Business

I just wanted to thank you for your help with our recruitment process which went very smoothly and has – we hope – found us just the person for the job!

Managing Director, Citrefine International Ltd

Very professional service and will certainly be in contact for future recruitment.

Director, Blakedown Sport & Play Ltd

Sophie did a great job at understanding our business and our needs, she is extremely professional and we hugely benefitted from her experience and expertise.

HR Manager, The Data Privacy Group Ltd

We were impressed not only by the quality of candidates you found for us but also the level of information, preparation and qualification you put into the process. You continually kept us informed of each person’s feelings about the process, which is very important but often overlooked. I am looking forward to working with your company again in the future.

Commercial Director, Incentive Facilities Management

In an industry where people over promise and under deliver, Rob and his teams have consistently provided a high-quality service. It is great to deal with someone that has an excellent understanding of UK industry, and a passion for sales.

Sales Manager, TR Fasteners

Thank you for your dedicated help during the recruitment process - we came to you after unsuccessfully searching elsewhere, and hired, not one, but two! Quick response times, and a really personal approach, without being pushy.

Managing Director, Accora Ltd

Understood the type of person we were looking for and good follow ups - not too frequent.

Managing Director, bigHead Bonding Fasteners Ltd

Thanks for all your help during the recruitment process. I have been extremely impressed with Aaron Wallis especially when compared to other agencies we have dealt with. I really felt you grasped the type of person we required and found strong candidates.

UK Sales Manager, Nexcom

I have always found Rob to be very knowledgeable about our industry sector, and it is refreshing to see after all of these years that Rob continues to quickly and accurately understand my requirements.

HR and General Manager, THK

More info on our sales recruitment service

Our candidates say...

Aaron Wallis (and in particular Rob Scott) have been fantastic throughout the recruitment process, and even a few months down the line, still continues to care. Rob clearly cares about each individual and has a wealth of knowledge and expertise, which shows in the work he does. Each candidate is not just a number, and the support received from Aaron Wallis has helped me get a career which I truly enjoy.

M. White, Candidate

Wanted to say a huge thank you to Simon Bonner who has just helped me secure my new role. He was one of the most professional recruiters I have ever worked with he was supportive really quick at replying and really put me at ease.

J. Marcinkiewicz, Candidate

The staff at Aaron Wallis were fantastic. Throughout the process, they maintained excellent communication and I always knew where I stood.

M. Owusu, Candidate

Professional and responsive from start to finish. I would highly recommend. Special thanks to Sophie J for her help and support throughout.

N. Leney, Candidate

When talking with Simon you felt relaxed cared to help you find a position that suited your needs

D. Pinder, Candidate

Less than two weeks after joining Aaron Wallis I was offered my new job. I got a £10,000 rise in my basic salary, car allowance, a laptop and many other perks, which will help to further my career. I definitely would not have found my dream job without the help of Aaron Wallis.

C. Hoy, Candidate

Very good advice and support was given during the course of the interviewing process. Potential job seekers would be well advised to use this company whilst looking for their new career.

R. Speakman, Candidate

George above and beyond to make sure I had everything I need to secure my new role. Outstanding Professional.

A. Kirkland, Candidate

A great recruitment company to work with. Excellent experience with Aaron Wallis through the entire recruitment process. The team was really professional and extremely helpful. Darren was a pleasure to work with. He was friendly, supportive and gave me great advice. Thank you very much!

A. Bauchet, Candidate

Excellent service, very professional and friendly, would and have, recommended Aaron Wallis.

E. Heley, Candidate

Good swift process with Aaron Wallis, informative regarding the role and the process was moved at a good pace with healthy interaction. Would recommend them to anyone pursuing a change.

S. Bartlett, Candidate

Sophie helped me secure a new role I have been searching for. She took her time to explain clear and concisely all I needed to succeed at the interview stage. Thanks again Sophie!

O. Oladejo, Candidate

Sophie contacted me about a role explained the details clearly and made sure I was ready for the interview. She kept in touch every step of the way till I started the job. Thank you Sophie for a great experience.

S. Powell, Candidate

I had a great experience. Helped me every step of the way to get my new job. Sophie was very polite, kind and helpful!

J. Parnham, Candidate

Managed to get me placed within a week! Really friendly and easy to deal with. Always available for a call and my biggest challenge was I was in work at the time I was looking for my next opportunity (which is stressful) but Sam made that easy.

P. Fitzsimons, Candidate

I have to say coming across and having dealings with Aaron Wallis proved to be very successful. Being highly experienced did not seem to count for much during my job search bit a conversation with Robert Scott gave me a real confidence boost and enabled to get a position at the age of 63. Great service!!!

D. Burgess, Candidate

Friendly, proactive, communicative. Overall a really positive experience.

R. Houston, Candidate

The Recruitment agent I used, Simon, was extremely helpful and really went the extra mile to ensure all of my questions were answered, and that I felt as comfortable and prepared as possible. Very professional company and would definitely recommend to others. Thank you Aaron Wallis!

A. Callaby, Candidate

Excellent experience. Knowledgeable staff and really went the extra mile. Found my ideal position and I couldn't be happier. Special shout out to Sam and George: who made the process smooth and easy for me. Highly recommend.

K. Pearce, Candidate

Fantastic customer service, communication was brilliant, happy polite people to talk to, made everything a lot easier and smoother. Thank you for all your help getting me back in the work force, Keep up the good work :-)

K. Everitt, Candidate

Fantastic service, helped me find my ideal job quickly and smoothly. Would highly recommend them.

C. Caine, Candidate

I can honestly say that the time and expertise you gave me was way beyond any other recruitment consultant I dealt with. You are a rarity in your industry.

S. Akers, Candidate

Aaron Wallis Sales Recruitment are a very friendly and professional recruitment organisation who listen to your needs, work with you and act on your behalf which sets them apart from many of their competitors who in my experience are willing to throw anything at you. We discussed my history, my preferences and my wishes - one opportunity was introduced. It was perfect. I start at the end of June.

R. Buckley, Candidate

For anyone looking for work, I can't recommend Aaron Wallis highly enough.

C. Rockliffe, Candidate

Sophie has been fantastic and always so attentive, highly recommend.

T. Ashbourne, Candidate

I would highly recommend Aaron Wallis Recruitment, Darren was extremely helpful and provided me with plenty of advice and support throughout the whole process.

D. Bretherton, Candidate

Sam was by far the most professional and helpful of any individual I've ever dealt with through a recruitment agency. He was supportive and thorough throughout the process. He definitely goes the extra mile for you. A pleasure to deal with. I would highly recommend him. An asset to Aaron Wallis

M. Wyer, Candidate

George Humphries was a complete professional at every point, from our first phone conversation to his “good luck tomorrow” text on Sunday before I started in my new role.

E. Fry, Candidate

I had a very good experience with Aaron Wallis. The company itself is offering great content for all things related to the hiring process. I definitely recommend.

J. Ostermeier, Candidate

Wanted to say a huge thank you to Simon Bonner who has just helped me secure my new role. He was one of the most professional recruiters I have ever worked with.

Aaron Wallis is an outstanding recruitment agency specialising in high calibre sales positions. I was working directly with Darren Dewrance who went above and beyond my expectations in sourcing me my perfect role. I was kept in regular communication with Darren and he worked extremely hard to secure my dream job. Highly recommended and Thanks Darren for all your expertise and hard work.

R. Sealy, Candidate

Simon was knowledgeable on his clients history, background and what their requirements were and he worked around time zones, holidays and a pandemic to get the right result.

J. Tooze, Candidate

The service provided by Aaron Wallis has been just great. I was constantly informed about what was going on with the process interview and the agent has always been supportive and kind to me.

L. Colagrossi, Candidate

I would highly recommend thank you to Darren for helping me secure my new job role! Excellent service all round!

G. Thompson, Candidate

I have to say using Aaron Wallis Recruitment has been nothing but an absolute pleasure. I've used many agencies over the years as the client and the candidate and its not always been a pleasurable experience!

L. Knowles, Candidate

Very polite and friendly and was very helpful finding me my next new role.

K. Craggs, Candidate

Perfect from start to finish. Simon deserves a shout out. Best recruiter there is. If you need a job, this guy will get you one. He's like the super man of recruiters. Top man, can't recommend him enough.

M. Crisp, Candidate

The detail put into the preparation for interviews and the detail of the job description was first class. Rob and Simon in particular are amongst the best I've ever dealt with.

K. Peacock, Candidate

George is a fantastic recruitment agent and provides a great service. It was a pleasure I thoroughly recommend George to anyone.

C. Beaugie, Candidate

Darren at Aaron Wallis was really encouraging and helpful. He was very responsive and regularly made phone calls to explain the job opportunities available, and guided me through the application process.

A. Brown, Candidate

I had the absolute pleasure of working with George Humphries on finding a placement best suitable for me.

A. Van Der Mescht, Candidate

The most professional recruitment agency I've ever worked with. Robert Scott was extremely proactive and send me a detailed briefing before each interview, ensuring I was well prepared.

D. Bermant, Candidate

Rob was really helpful when I was putting together a presentation for the second stage interview. Overall their communication was great and kept me updated of any progress

J. McGrattan, Candidate

IMAGES

Sales Interview Presentation
Sales Interview Presentation
How to Deliver a Winning Interview Presentation
Top 40 sales interview questions and answers for sales reps |Prospectly
Interview Sales Job Ppt Powerpoint Presentation Gallery Guide Cpb
Sales Interview Presentation Templates

VIDEO

SALES INTERVIEW KA SABSE IMPORTANT QUESTION!
Sales Promoter Interview Questions
What makes a good interview presentation?
Sales And Marketing Interview Questions And Answers
Tech Sales Interview Question Example Response To "Why Do You Want To Work For Our Company?" #shorts
Top 5 Interview Questions And Answers For High Ticket Sales Jobs

COMMENTS

How To Give a Successful Sales Presentation Interview
If a hiring manager asks you to complete a sales presentation as part of your interview, follow these steps for success: 1. Ask the hiring manager questions. The amount of information that the hiring manager provides you can vary, so make sure to learn as much as possible about what they're expecting before you prepare.
Top 7 Sales Presentation Interview Templates with Examples ...
Template 1: Concept Of Sales Presentation Training PPT. With the help of this template, applicants get to know the principles of sales presentations, including the significance of understanding the audience, outlining specific goals, and using persuasion tactics.
How to Give A Compelling Interview Presentation: Tips ...
Think of your interview presentation as a sales pitch. ... How to Come Up With 15-Minute Interview Presentation Ideas. Typically, a talent acquisition team will suggest broad interview presentation topics for you. For example, if you are applying for a sales position, they may ask you to develop a sales presentation for some product (real or ...
Interview presentation examples: 21 topics for your 'hire-me pitch
Your presentation should only focus on issues that matter to her organisation. Their problems, their needs, their goals. You prove your value by directly addressing the problems/opportunities you ...
Interview Presentation Templates (Plus Examples)
What to include in an interview presentation template. Here are seven components you can think about when preparing your interview presentation template: 1. Type and topic of presentation. Before you begin preparing for a presentation, consider selecting a method of presentation. This can influence the type of template you create.
10 Tricky Sales Interview Questions with Answers + Presentation Topics
Common Topics for a Sales Interview Presentation. Generally, the topic will be directly related to the job being recruited for. Here are three common presentation topics asked in sales interviews. Product Launch Strategy: Develop a presentation outlining a comprehensive strategy for launching a new product.
How to give a successful sales presentation interview
Follow the steps below to plan and prepare for a successful interview: 1. Make sure you understand the objective. Before you plan your presentation, ensure you understand the purpose of your presentation and what the interviewer expects. Consider the product or service you're trying to sell and what the sales goals of the presentation are.
Sales Presentation for Interview: The Dos and Don'ts
A sales interview presentation is an opportunity for a salesperson to demonstrate their selling skills. This is important because selling is a key part of the job. A sales interview presentation is a key part of the sales process. It allows you to ask the right questions, provide the best answers, and deliver an engaging sales pitch.
10 Tips for Delivering a Winning Interview Presentation
During an interview, you may be asked to give a presentation about a relevant topic. Interview presentations are common for roles that require communicating information to large groups of people, including sales representatives, business analysts, managers, product managers and client-facing positions.
Sales Presentation Interview: Definition, Steps, and Tips
A sales presentation interview, also known as a mock sales pitch, is a common requirement during interviews for sales positions because salespeople often present or pitch ideas and information to new or existing clients. During a mock sales pitch, the interviewer may ask you to sell a product or service, such as a random object, an existing ...
How to prep for a mock sales pitch interview + creative ways to stand out
1. Have a clear understanding of the company and the product. If the hiring manager asks you to do a mock sales pitch in your interview, you should know what you're going to be selling. In most cases, this means getting to know the product that this company sells.
The Best Sales Interview Questions & Answers
Make sure to ask follow-up questions to learn more about their mindset throughout that success, as well as the way they dealt with any hurdles and even the way they celebrated this sale. 3. Walk me through your approach to the sales process in your most recent role. A sales process question is a pure knowledge test.
13 Sales Interview Questions and Answers for 2024
5. Sell our product to me. Interviewers ask this question to witness your sales potential in action, how you perform under pressure, and your method of presenting the product to a potential customer. How to answer: Research the company's target customer, their pain points, goals, and experiences with the products.
41 Sales Interview Questions To Help You Land the Job
Example: "Early on in my last role, our team was given low-quality visuals to include in our sales presentation. I was afraid to speak up about the quality of the visuals for fear of seeming too critical as a new hire. After our team didn't make the sale, I brought up the issue of the visuals.
50 Interview Questions About Sales (With Answers)
Tips for Answering Sales-Based Interview Questions. ... My primary duties included generating leads, conducting sales presentations, and negotiating contracts. I excelled in meeting and exceeding sales targets, consistently achieving 120% of my quarterly goals. Additionally, I was involved in training new sales team members and refining our ...
How to Ace your Presentation Interview
Ask the participants questions on the fly. Wait for responses, and check who in the room is paying attention. They want to see how well you can work with what you do today. Showing business value - good presales and sales professionals are able to understand their customer's needs and work with them on the business value.
20 Sales Interview Questions and Answers
6. Tell me about a time when you had to collaborate with other departments in order to close a sale. Sales isn't just about convincing a customer to buy a product — it's about understanding the customer's needs, working with other departments to meet those needs, and closing the sale.
How to Prepare for a Mock Sales Presentation in a Job Interview
1. Embrace the Awkwardness of Role-Playing. A mock sales presentation is role-playing. It's make believe, it's weird, it's awkward…it's supposed to be. That is the point. Companies want to see how you perform and what you do when you are asked to do something outside of your comfort zone. Go own it.
Interview Presentation Topics (Definition and Examples)
Interview Presentation Topics (Definition and Examples) While a great CV can attract a hiring manager's attention and secure you an interview, it's important to be prepared for the interview stage. Interview presentations are common for jobs where you're responsible for communicating information to a large group of people, such as sales ...
8 Steps to Ace Your Sales Interview Presentation
The sales interview presentation is a salesperson's chance to prove themselves and their selling skills since that's what they'll have to do within their job duties. Asking the right questions, providing the best answers, and delivering an engaging sales pitch can all lead to success in this crucial part of the sales process.
Presentation Ideas For Interviews
Interview presentation topics always include career achievements. So, we recommend writing down the problems you've solved in your previous job. ... Let's say you're applying for a sales associate position. You can use your presentation to show how to resolve a frequent problem the company or department encounters. Then, after outlining the ...
10 Sales Representative Interview Questions and Sample Answers
Sales Presentations: Prepare and deliver compelling sales presentations and product demonstrations to prospective clients. Negotiation: Negotiate terms of sales agreements, including pricing and contract terms, to ensure a win-win outcome. ... Part 1: 10 sales representative interview Questions and sample answers. Copy Interview Questions. 1.
75+ Interview Presentation Topics to Showcase Your Skills
This is where an interview presentation template can come in handy. Below are 15 most popular topics and 75 creative interview presentation ideas (5 ideas for each topic) that are capable of showcasing your talent and skills and experience. 1. New Technology.
Mock Sales Presentation
"You are now playing the roles of CMO and VP, Marketing who are learning about our product for the first time"). After you have set the stage, proceed to your mock presentation in character. Discovery. Begin your meeting with questions for the client. Have the ability to uncover prospect needs using 1st and 2nd line discovery questions.
Second Interview Presentations
If you fancy a list of common interview questions, we've assembled a list of the most common interview questions here. Obscure Presentation Example: The Paperclip Presentation. As an example I'm going to use 'You work for a paperclip manufacturer and you have to sell the features and benefits of a paperclip' (which incidentally, is the ...

Top 7 Sales Presentation Interview Templates with Examples and Samples