As a sales recruitment agency, we know sales professionals tend to have the gift of the gab. They are great talkers and communicators. But, like anything else, too much of a good thing can get you into trouble. In terms of job interviews, there is a lot of information you likely want to get across to the interviewer to explain why you are the best candidate.

Sales is a highly competitive industry, and getting a job in this field requires more than a persuasive personality. Sales candidates must also know what to say and, perhaps more importantly, what not to say during the interview process.

Our sales recruiters have been part of hundreds if not thousands of sales job interviews. Over the years we’ve compiled a list of some of the things that you need to STOP saying if you want to get hired. Here they are:

1. “I’m not big on cold calling”

Cold calling is a vital part of sales, and a sales candidate who is uncomfortable with or willing to put the work into cold calling may not be the right fit for the role. Cold calling makes up a large portion of leads for all types of companies and if a candidate isn’t willing to dig in and cold call, it can say a lot about their work ethic. So, don’t say you don’t like cold calling. Rather, highlight your strengths in relationship building and closing deals to demonstrate your value.

2. “I don’t know much about your organization”

One of your top tasks as a sales professional is to research your prospects and clients. You need to understand who they are, what they need, and how you can help them. Sales candidates should ALWAYS research the company before the interview and show enthusiasm for the products or services that the company offers. Saying that you don’t know much about the company is a sure way to demonstrate a lack of preparation and interest in the job. Do your homework!

3. “I don’t like working in a team – I’m more of a lone wolf”

Sales is a team-oriented profession. But there are still many salespeople who like to work alone. They like to stray from the pack and work independently. However, hiring companies may view sales candidates who don’t like working with others be a good fit for the role. Instead, emphasize your ability to collaborate and work with others to achieve common goals.

4. “I’m not a natural salesperson”

This is a common thing we hear candidates say, especially at interviews for entry-level roles where people are trying to break into the industry. Sales candidates who don’t see themselves as natural salespeople may show a lack of confidence and drive to succeed in the role. Instead, focus on your skills and experiences that have prepared you for a career in sales and demonstrate your passion for the field. What skills do you have that transfer over to the sales industry?

Sales candidates must choose their words carefully during the interview process. Avoiding the statements mentioned above can give you a much better chance of getting a job offer.

Read More From Our Sales Recruiters

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SalesForce Search is a sales recruitment agency that specializes in hiring sales rockstars. Hiring top salespeople is tough. Only 55% meet their quota. Our proactive approach recruits talented salespeople before they hit the market. As North America’s leading sales headhunter we recruit salespeople in every sector of the economy including, software, manufacturing, financial services and medical devices. To find your next sales rockstar, start your search here. Did you know SalesForce Search is an IQ PARTNERS company?