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Interview Tips

The more you know about the company and the job you are applying for, the better you will appear in the interview. An interviewer will be impressed by your interest and motivation, and you will be able to explain what you can do for the company.

Find out as much key information as you can about the company, its products and its customers. If possible, talk to people who work at the company. There may be other sources of information on the Web, especially if the company is publicly traded.

Clean Copy of Resume (bring 2 or 3 copies since you may meet others)

Notebook

Pen

Appointment book

Information/literature, articles on company

Your business card

Any accomplishments on paper in a binder (brag book)

Specific questions written down for hiring manager

Business attire suggestions: Men: Dark suit (navy, gray, black), white pressed button down shirt, black professional shoes with a shine! A powerful tie can make a statement- red is commonly worn. THINK CONSERVATIVE!

Woman: Dark Suit or pant suit (navy, gray, black), professional shirt…same as men accept nylons should always be worn and try not to wear too much jewelry, and be conservative on the makeup. Less is more. No perfume.

Try not to smoke cigarettes prior to your interview, and do not chew gum or eat during the interview.

Dress for Success- you never have a second chance to make a first impression!

In preparation for any face- to- face or even phone interview, you must have a powerful opening statement which clearly shows that your homework has been done, you really know the company, and that you are interested in the opportunity based on your extensive research. Read the web site thoroughly, go to the library if necessary, and find any articles and literature that is pertinent to the company. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!

Example "Mr. Manager, thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I am excited about your company and the fact that they are in position to go public in 5 months. It looks as though you’ve really developed a name for yourselves since Mass Hi-tech and the Boston Business recognized you as a leader in the industry. I was also quite impressed how you grew 700% this past year!"

After a powerful statement about how great this company & what read, you should then ask, "but tell me Mr. Manager, what do you feel is most important to be successful in this position"?

Having enthusiasm and sharing knowledge about the company is key in developing a good rapport with any hiring authority & it shows leadership!

Spend about 5-10 minutes in building a rapport with the hiring manager. If you see football pictures all around his office talk about the game last night. Ask him or her about their background- where they came from and why they joined this organization. Managers love to talk about themselves! Always keep in mind that this is a professional business interview. Don’t get too comfortable as if he or she is your best buddy. Be friendly but don’t over do it. It is great to talk of sports, or the weather, but keep in mind not to ramble on or talk too personal. This is an interview, and you need to always maintain professionalism and stay focused. Also, make sure you have good listen skills-don’t cut off the manager or ever talk over them.

The following are interview questions you may be asked by the hiring manager. Role-play these until you feel you know how to answer them smoothly and professionally.

These are question you (the candidate) may be asked.

1. Tell me about yourself, your sales background.

2. How successful are you in your career? (Make sure you give specific accomplishments- #’s, rankings, promotions, Employee of the Month, etc.) *Even bring a portfolio of documented accomplishments on paper in a binder

3. Tell me about the technology or product you sell?

4. What do you enjoy most about Sales?

5. What do you enjoy least about Sales?

6. Why are you leaving current position & past positions?

(Never talk negatively about your past experiences)

7. What are your goals and objectives in this position?

8.What will your greatest challenge be in this position?

9.What area do you want to grow in?

10.Tell me about yourself in general, hobbies….

11.Tell about a problem at work you overcame?

12. How do you handle pressure?

13. How do you get your leads?

14. Why should I hire you or why are you here? (THIS IN THE QUESTION WHERE YOU NEED TO REALLY SELL YOURSELF)

15. What was your best sale and why?

16. Where else are you interviewing?

*Keep in mind that some managers may try to trick you- For example they may ask you if you would be interested in a marketing role instead of a sales role. Make sure you clearly indicate that you are truly a sales person at heart and that is why you are here today. You don’t mind doing a little marketing at times if necessary, however, your primary focus is bringing in new business & to make the company and myself a lot of money.

1. What are the specific duties in this position?
2. What is a typical day like?
3. Can you tell me about your top sales person, and what he or she does to be successful?
4. What do you expect from me?
5. Can you tell me a little about your training & who conducts it?
6. What is your primary goal for 2001?
7. Who do you see as your biggest competitor and why?

8. How does your product differ your competitor’s?

8. What is this position available?
9. Why would I want to work here?
10. Where do you see your company in the market in the future?

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