From the course: Interview Tips for Sales Professionals

How to approach this question

From the course: Interview Tips for Sales Professionals

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How to approach this question

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- When interviewers ask you what you're looking for in a company, don't be fooled. Contrary to how this question may sound, they are not looking for some five minute summary about what you want as a sales professional. They're definitely not looking for you to spell out how you're on the hunt for some stylin' company car and a cushy expense account. For sure employers will want you to be happy in that role and moving in the direction of your career goals if they bring you on board. But during the interview stage, it's much more about them than it is about you. So what's the best way to answer this question when you're interviewing for a sales role. First, be honest. Don't just make something up because it's what you think they want to hear. If you come across as disingenuous or dishonest, you're going to sink your chances of landing an offer. If you're in sales because you like having your income tied directly to your performance, you can absolutely tell them that. Just be sure and make it obvious that you've got the skills and experience that they're looking for. In other words, make it clear that you don't just like makin' money, you're also good at it. Next, show that you're genuinely enthusiastic about this company. Hiring managers look for sales people who are going to be true evangelists as they go out and promote their offerings. Why? Well it's a heck of a lot easier to sell something that you love and believe in than something that you're just kind of eh about. Finally, if you can, weave in a story about your performance, your background or your intentions in pursuing this role. For instance, maybe your dad sold pacemakers and you decided to go into medical sales because you really admired how he was literally saving lives. Or say the company is in the green energy space and you're so passionate about recycling that you teach it at your local community center. If you have a short and memorable anecdote to share that ties into the why this company question, it could really help you clench the offer.

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