As sales recruiters, we can agree it’s no secret sales job candidates tell lies during sales interviews. They also lie on their resumes and throughout the recruitment process to gain an edge over others competing for the same jobs. Obviously, some lies are more severe than others, and it’s important for hiring companies and sales recruiters to be able to identify and see through these lies when recruiting.

Here are some of the main things candidates lie about in sales interviews:

1. Why They Are Looking for a Job

This is a topic that is bound to come up during recruiting, and it can be a difficult question for candidates to answer – a reason why so many people lie about it. There are many reasons someone could be looking for a new job. But if they were fired, quit because they had issues with a boss or co-workers, or for a reason that may hurt their chances of getting hired, many candidates change their answer.

2. Technology Skills

Having strong technology skills is increasingly important for all types of sales roles. However, some candidates lie about their abilities in order to meet the qualifications as stated in the job posting.

3. Previous Job Responsibilities and Experience

Many candidates will exaggerate their previous experience and job responsibilities to look like a more seasoned candidate. They may overstate responsibilities, time spent in a job, and other things to beef up their resume and appear more qualified.

4. Salary

When people search for a new job, a higher salary is often something they are looking for as well. Many sales professionals will overstate their previous salary in hopes of getting a higher offer or at least negotiating a better salary than their previous job.

How to See Through Candidate Lies During Sales Interviews

Candidates are going to lie. You can remedy this and get information closer to the truth by following up with references. Don’t treat reference checks as a formality. Ask about the information provided by the candidate during the interview. This will help you see what is fact and what is fiction.

Read More About Sales Interviews

Are you hiring? Holding sales interviews in the near future? Check out these blog posts by our sales recruiters for more tips and advice:

6 Tips for Successful Follow-Ups After an Interview

5 Unprofessional Habits That Kill Your Chances of Getting the Best Candidate

How to Close a Star Candidate: 5 Tips from a Sales Recruiter

SalesForce Search is a sales recruiting company which specializes in the recruitment and placement of sales professionals. We recruit salespeople in every sector of the economy including, software, manufacturing, financial services and medical devices. Find the right salesperson for your organization, start your search here.