The question of how to recruit sales people is one that perplexes many companies. Finding good sales professionals is a bit different from other employees in that a resume doesn’t foretell future performance as well with sales people. But there are some very successful steps you can take to recruit the best sales professionals on your terms. 

Keep a Sales Person Pipeline

Recruiting sales people is a process that shouldn’t be limited to the times when you need them.  Finding the right sales person is key to your success and you should always be on the lookout.  Keep a file on potential sales people for your company and keep in touch with any you think may have what it takes to succeed in your organization.  That way when a need arises you will have most of the work already done.

Sales Profile

When determining the best methods and approach in how to recruit sales people it is always best to have a thorough profile of the ideal sales professional. This way you can keep a look out for key traits even when you are not actively searching.  Be specific in all aspects such as personality, key interests, and background.  If you need help in determining the right profile ask existing sales people or even your customers. 

Referrals

As with the actual sales process, asking for sales person referrals is a great way to find the best candidates.  You can get referrals from colleagues, vendors, customers, or even from outgoing personnel.  Referrals like these tend to provide some of the best applicants because those referring them know your business well.

Use Social Media

Social media has entered nearly every phase of our lives.  So why not let it help in your quest of how to recruit sales people? Whether you are a Facebook friend or a contact via LinkedIn, finding people on social media sites is easier than ever and the same is true with sales prospects.  Keep in mind that prospective applicants should fit at least some of your previously established profile criteria.

Good Advertising

Perhaps the most overlooked aspect in good sales recruiting practices is really good advertising. A bit old fashioned but still a great practice, a well versed ad placed in the right spot can yield better recruiting results than just about any other source. However, traditional advertising will also bring unwanted and under-qualified applicants as well.  Be very specific in your ads to limit the pool of applicants as much as possible.

Recruiting sales people is a difficult task and there is a lot of competition for the best personnel. Keeping a focused approach and utilizing personal as well as professional networks will help you to achieve success and bring in difference makers to your organization.