In the 20+ years I've been in the recruiting business, I have seen a LOT of changes; changes in everything from technology and communication -- to work environment and how to dress for the job! But I have to say one thing that hasn't changed in that time is the #1 question I get from candidates:
“How do I stand out from the crowd?”
Ok, so maybe that question runs a close second to "How much does it pay?"😂, but it is actually the most important question a candidate can ask. To help you tackle the highly competitive marketplace, I’ve put together some practical ways to make a lasting impression and differentiate yourself from other candidates.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
The questions you ask during an interview are just as important as the ones you answer. They demonstrate your natural curiosity about the company and your interest in understanding how you can contribute.
Don’t just focus on the job description; ask about the people, their journeys, and what drives them in their roles. Show that you’re not only interested in the position but also in the culture and values of the company.
You should be interviewing the company as much as they are interviewing you. This back-and-forth sets the stage for a stronger connection and a better fit.
Show Up with Energy and Enthusiasm
Your energy level can significantly influence how you're perceived in an interview. Be fully present in the moment and let your excitement for the job shine through. Genuine enthusiasm is contagious and can leave a lasting impression on your interviewer.
Don’t forget to ask for the job directly—it shows confidence and a strong desire to contribute. Let them know you’re eager to join their team and are ready to hit the ground running.
Use Example-Based Responses
When answering questions, rely on example-based responses to illustrate your skills and experiences.
Specific examples from your past work help paint a clear picture of how you’ve handled similar situations and how you can bring value to the company.
Be ready to talk about your “why”—what motivates you and drives your passion for sales. This personal insight can be the differentiator that resonates with your interviewer.
Differentiate Yourself Post-Interview
Treat the interview process like a sales call. After the interview, follow up promptly. If possible, reach out directly to the person the job reports to. In a world where communication often happens through emails and texts, a phone call can make you stand out. This extra step shows initiative and can put you far ahead of other candidates who stick to traditional follow-up methods.
Additionally, with the rise of AI in recruitment, your personal touch can make a significant impact. If the hiring manager hasn’t seen your resume, don’t hesitate to send it directly. This proactive approach can trigger a second look at your application, increasing your chances of making it to the next round.
To Sum it Up
Standing out in a sales interview is all about demonstrating your curiosity, energy, and willingness to go the extra mile. By asking thoughtful questions, showing genuine enthusiasm, using example-based responses, and differentiating yourself in the follow-up process, you can position yourself as a top candidate.
In the world of sales, the way you sell yourself in an interview is a reflection of how you’ll sell the company’s products or services. Make every interaction count, and don’t be afraid to show your passion for the job.
If you have any other questions about the topic, feel free to connect and message me on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathergoldberg/ or email me at hgoldberg@grsrecruiting.com.
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Heather Goldberg is Co-Owner and Vice President of GRS Recruiting. She has over 25 years of experience working in direct recruitment, placing candidates specifically in exeuctive and industrial sales roles. Connect with Heather on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathergoldberg/.
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