Job interviews are about what you say. Say the right things and you could get a sales job offer. But say the wrong things and you could find yourself out of contention. There is a lot written about the strategies and things you should talk about during a sales job interview. But here, our sales recruiters are going to outline something NOT to talk about during your next interview. 

1. Questionable sales tactics

There are many ways you can approach sales. Some people choose to use questionable sales tactics to boost their sales numbers. If you’ve been guilty of this in the past, it’s probably not a good idea to brag about it with a potential employer. Focus on your skills and experience and how you can help the new employers’ customers achieve their objectives. 

2. Commission structures and base salary

Talking about compensation is generally frowned upon during the interview process. Try to avoid bringing up the topic yourself. Wait for the interviewer to breach the subject before you discuss it. And even then, keep your cards close to your chest, or you could give away your leverage when you negotiate compensation. If possible, wait until an offer is made before having the money talk. 

3. Sales tools and resources you don’t like

It’s important to not speak ill of things during your interview, including sales tools and resources. You never know how a company feels about particular things. They may use a certain tool as their main source of data or sales management.

What if the company uses some of the tools and they prefer to use them? You could potentially lose out on the opportunity right there if you communicate your dislike for it. Instead, talk about the tools and resources you have experience with. 

4. How you manipulate customers during the sales process

Sure, you want to talk about how you achieved great sales numbers to impress the interviewer. But it shouldn’t be at the cost of using manipulative tactics to sell your customers. More than ever, focusing on the customers’ needs is first and foremost. If you provide examples of how you conduct sales and they are manipulative, companies will second guess hiring you. 

Staying away from potentially controversial topics will give the interviewer less to pick away at. Stick to the facts and avoid saying anything that could cause the interviewer to question your candidacy. 

Get More Tips From Our Recruiters For How To Have A Successful Sales Job Interview

12 Things to Bring and 5 Things Not to Bring to a Sales Interview

What to Wear and What NOT to Wear to a Sales Job Interview

When Is the Ideal Time to Negotiate Salary During A Sales Job Interview?

Less Is More – How to Sell Yourself in a Sales Job Interview

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.