Relevant experience is a common requirement in “help wanted” advertisements, but when it comes to sales, what specifically qualifies as relevant?
Perhaps even more important, why do companies so covet experienced salespeople? In the right circumstances and for the right position, there are often times compelling reasons to consider applicants with little or even no familiarity with your specific product or industry but with perhaps a history of success in selling a different product or service. In many situations, these are candidates that should not be overlooked.
In addition, occasionally there are candidates that are new to the job market or are coming from a different position outside of sales, but who exhibit such strong intrinsic motivators, that it makes sense to evaluate their candidacy. These unique individuals that are virtually hardwired to be successful at selling can be identified by utilizing some of the amazing profiling tools readily available. We recommend Predictive Group as a tremendous resource to be able to target individuals whose innate abilities strongly position them to be highly successful in a selling role.
Here are some situations where it may make sense to widen the candidate pool by looking at candidates that do not necessarily have existing industry specific sales experience:
Carefully consider the specific selling duties the position requires, tailor the compensation package (salary, commission, or a combination) to match those goals, then determine whether and what type of experience is necessary for a candidate to thrive.
International Search Consultants has had an award winning team of Sales Recruiters since 1999.
Please feel free to Contact ISC today to get a strong flow of quota busting sales pros delivered to your interview table to make your next quarters numbers break records!