How to Ace Your Job Interview: Recruitment Tips for Experienced Sales Professionals
It’s a new year, and with it comes the desire for ‘fresh starts’ and ‘new beginnings. With that said, you might be taking this time to look at new professional opportunities to progress your career.
Here at Prime, we’ve helped countless sales professionals secure their next position. So, drawing on that experience, we’ve put together some helpful tips tailored to help seasoned candidates – like you – stand out.
Prepare to Succeed
Treat the interview like a sales pitch or prospect meeting – you wouldn’t go into it blind without the right prep. So, take some time prior to the interview to look into the people, values, clients and culture of the company you have applied to. Don’t forget to also prepare your own thoughtful questions for the interviewer, as these demonstrate your interest and insight. Recruiters can be a great help during the research phase, as they may have a deeper understanding of what the company values and wants.
Go Beyond the Numbers
In sales, numbers are a key measure of success, but at the mid-senior level, it’s not just about hitting targets—it’s about the story behind those numbers. So, link your stats to an example of your leadership, tenacity or sales abilities. Did you build strong relationships with key clients, mentor a team to exceed their quotas, or identify untapped market opportunities? Going beyond the numbers demonstrates your strategic thinking, leadership, and ability to drive sustainable success.
Focus on the Afters
This tip comes from some sales advice Andy Bounds gave on his episode of the Changing the Perception of Sales podcast. When you’re selling something to someone, they want to know the afters: the benefits they will get from purchasing your product. Think of your interview the same way by focusing on what results you can bring to their sales team. For example, instead of saying, “I implemented a new CRM system,” frame it in terms of the afters: “I implemented a new CRM system that reduced lead response times by 40%, leading to a 20% increase in client retention.” By articulating the afters, you demonstrate your ability to drive tangible results—a crucial quality for mid-senior sales roles where impact is everything.
Think About the Culture
At a mid-senior level, technical skills are a given. So, what sets candidates apart is how well they fit into a company’s culture. It’s important not to lie and end up in a company you won’t enjoy working with. But, use the interview to show you understand and align with the organisations values and culture. This is where a recruiter can be super helpful as they have an understanding of and usually an existing relationship with the employer.
Close & Follow up Like a Pro
In sales, a strong close can make or break a deal, and the same applies to interviews. As the conversation wraps up, take the opportunity to reinforce your interest in the role and summarise why you’re the perfect fit. Highlight key points you’ve discussed, such as your experience, achievements, and how you align with the company’s needs. Then, ask a confident closing question, such as, “Do you have any concerns about my suitability for the role that I can address before we finish?” This demonstrates your willingness to engage openly and resolve doubts—qualities any great salesperson possesses. A polished close leaves a lasting impression and sets you apart from the competition.
Hopefully these tips have inspired you to take on a new opportunity and go into your next opportunity with confidence. If you are ready to take the next step in your sales journey, take a look at our [Job Board] or get in touch to secure your next role with expert support along the way.
