Many companies have compiled a large staff of competent employees and are very successful in their field of business. Their employees work hard, get paid well, and are happy in their line of work, which shows in how they interact with customers. Likewise, there are many other companies that are losing sales each quarter, due in large part to a staff that is incompetent, lackluster in their dealings with customers, or even apathetic about their place in the company as a whole. 

It is safe to say that a company that wants to find continued success must first find employees that meet a strict criteria. Looking for top talent is key to putting your best foot forward as a whole company. Your employees are the face that your customers see every day; they are the voice behind your products and, often, the brains behind innovative new products and services that can help keep your company ahead of the pack.

If you want to boost your company morale, hire great sales people, and continue to grow in profitability, look no further than these six tips for hiring top talent in your industry:

1. Set your standards high

Many companies and those in charge of hiring worry that by setting the bar high and requiring a lot of skill sets will greatly narrow the pool of applicants, thus giving them less options. The truth is, hiring is much like hunting. You would not go on a bear hunt with only a duck call in your arsenal; likewise, it is best to go into the hiring process ready to attract exactly the types of applicants that you want. Never feel you have to settle for less.

2. Be specific

Offering up a job description that is too broad can mislead applicants and, potentially, prevent the truly qualified among them from standing out. List out what your exact job needs are; do not be afraid to have too much information in the beginning when you are getting a feel for what your needs are, as it is easier to whittle that down as you narrow your focus than to add to the description as time goes on.

3. Promote Yourself

If your company is a leader in your industry, has recently had a major accomplishment, or has been mentioned in the media, do not be afraid to mention that in the job description or in an interview as well. While you do not want to come off as prideful, it is important for applicants to understand exactly who they will be partnering with if they hire on with your company.

4. Be honest

Do not promise that a sales person will be moving up the corporate ladder within the year if you do not foresee that happening. This can come across as sleazy to the interviewee, and – should they hire on with your company – it can lead to disillusionment and distrust down the line when your empty promises come to light.

5. Advertise well

You never know where your company’s next top talent may be hiding, so be sure to cover all your bases. In today’s Internet-based world, it is vital to consider all advertising avenues, including sites such as Monster.com. Craigslist.com, and more.

6. Be competitive

Just because we are in a down market right now does not mean that top talent will be willing to take any job, regardless of the pay or benefits offered. If the position merits a competitive wage and a stellar benefits package, by all means – offer it. You will not be disappointed.