1. Tell me what do you think our company sales organization could do better?

This sales interview question serves two purposes: It shows how much research the candidate did before meeting with you, and it demonstrates their creative thinking and entrepreneurial capabilities.

2. Explain me have you ever had a losing streak? How did you turn it around?

Everyone has bad spells, so beware of someone who claims they've never experienced a downturn. Nothing's wrong with a temporary slump as long as the candidate learned from it.

3. Tell me what is your ultimate career aspiration?

Don't go to a sales interview if you have reservations about sales as a career track. If you do make it to the in-person, give your interviewer a real answer to this question-think, what drew you to sales and why is it your future?

4. Tell me what's your approach to handling customer objections?

Preparing to deal with objections instead of winging it is critical. Listen for evidence of a process.

5. Explain me when do you stop pursuing a client?

The right answer here will depend on your company's process, but in general, the more tenacious and persistent a rep is willing to be, the better. Trish Bertuzzi, founder of The Bridge Group, recommends six to eight attempts before throwing in the towel.

6. Who is the smartest person you know?

This may seem like an odd question, but it can give you great insight into what traits the candidate values. By asking them to describe someone they know personally, you'll be more likely to get a genuine answer. Ask for specificity. Answers to this will vary, but you are looking for a candidate who values the same traits you and your company value.

7. Tell us what's your take on collaboration within a sales team?

Collaboration might be less important at some organizations than others, but candidates who aren't willing to collaborate at all won't likely make pleasant coworkers, not to mention their uncooperative attitude will block knowledge sharing.

8. Explain me what are some of your favorite questions to ask prospects?

Salespeople today should be asking questions more than making pitches. Open-ended questions that help a rep thoroughly understand a prospect's needs are as good as gold.

9. Explain me what role does social media play in your selling process?

Social selling is becoming more important in all industries. If the candidate has not used social channels to research prospects or look for leads in the past, make sure they have a willingness to learn.

10. Explain me what are three adjectives a former client would use to describe you?

Listen for synonyms of “helpful,” as a consultative approach is becoming increasingly important in modern sales.

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